I've found this on a few blogs lately and thought I would do it too!
A. Age: 27
B. Bed size: Queen
C. Chore that you hate: LAUNDRY! We live on the third floor and the laundry room is in the basement. It's SOOO annoying to go down there every 30 minutes. UGH!
D. Dogs: I love them, but don't have any.
E. Essential start to your day: Coffee and checking email/Facebook
F. Favorite color: Red and blue
G. Gold or Silver: Silver
H. Height: 5'9"
I. Instruments you play: Uh oh, here's where I show my nerd! I was in band all through middle school and high school. I started playing clarinet and moved onto flute and the occasional saxophone.
J. Job title: Software services/badass crocheter.
K. Kids: I don't have any, and we're not sure if we want them at all. But we can love and spoil the hell out of our nieces and nephews!
L. Live: Central Montana
M. Mother's name: Linda
N. Nicknames: I've allowed a few people to occasionally call me Ames.
O. Overnight hospital stays: Nope.
P. Pet peeve: Grammar! In case you didn't know, I'm definitely a grammar Nazi.
Q. Quote from a movie: I can't choose a favorite, but because I spent a good 3 days watching all 5 hours of Bob Dylan's documentary, No Direction Home, I'll stick a quote from there. (F.Y.I. you should totally watch it.) "Hey man... I don't mind being shot, I just don't dig being told about it. "
R. Right or left handed: Right
S. Siblings: 1 pretty awesome sister
T. Time you wake up: 6:45 or 7 on the weekdays. Whenever possible on the weekends.
U. Underwear: Um, yes?
V. Vegetable you hate: Peas.
W. What makes you run late: Not picking out my work clothes the day before, or making my coffee.
X. X-Rays you've had: Wrist, ankle, elbow and teeth I think.
Y. Yummy food that you make: I make some awesome chicken dishes! Do I have to pick just one?
Z. Zoo animal: I love the big cats!! I do love to see all the lions and tigers. So pretty!
If anyone else does this definitely leave the link so I can check it out!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
Imitation is the best form of flattery?
I will go ahead and post some of my newest projects before going onto my rant that I feel I need to get out of the way.
These are a few things that I'm going to start making for the store! I've been totally bogged down lately with custom orders, and quite a few that I can't show, but I was able to make a few quick patterns for new stuff for the shop. :)
I know we all have come to love and become addicted to Angry Birds. If not, then you must be living under a rock! I can't wait to make more of these and put them in the shop!
And now, here is my rant.
First and foremost, I would like to 100% thank every one of my followers and my Facebook fans. You guys seriously make my day. I look forward to any blog comments, or picture or post comments on Facebook. Because of you, my rant coming up, isn't so hard to deal with. I posted something briefly on Facebook and the outpouring of comments seriously just made my day.
Lately, I've been finding copycats.
This has been devastating to say the least. The newest one I found today on Etsy, selling things INCREDIBLY similar to mine, for cheaper.
I also happen to know that both of these recent copycats are on Craftster. Sadly, because of this, I've decided to no longer post my crafts on Craftster.
It's a truly sad day when creativity is gone, and has turned to stealing.
And so, this is what I have to say to all of that.
#1. I understand that I do charge more for my items. My mini's are about $25 plus shipping and handling. I would like to take a minute to explain why. I don't think I ever have, and I would like to explain the amount of work that goes into this.
The basic head, body and arms on my mini's takes me AT LEAST 2 hours to make. This doesn't include any color changing. Hair will take at least 1-2 hours as well. I make wigs for every one of my mini's that has hair, and each strand of yarn is individually threaded through a wig cap. Any accessories on them (skirt, jacket, etc.) takes even more time. This is all time, not even mentioning the amount of money spent on yarn and safety eyes and/or felt for any accessories. I do charge more, but I promise, I put my heart and soul into them. Most of the time, it's really hard to part with my creations because I kind of grow a bond. lol.
#2. In the time I spend actually crocheting everything, I want you to know that I put EXTRA CAREFUL time into sewing any and all parts onto my mini's. If I'm making something that I know is for a child, I make sure that everything is good and sturdy. I've been told that my stuff can easily go in and out of a washing machine due to children's wear and tear. I loved hearing that knowing that what I make is safe for children!
#3. I genuinely love what I do. I love sitting down and being creative, writing notes and drawing doodles for next projects. I love the mistakes made when writing patterns, and I love even more when I finally feel that I've perfected a pattern. I love making stuff that will make someone out there smile. I love the thought of my art being in people's houses, being conversation starters or just being there to make someone smile. I am 100% serious when I say that I LOVE to crochet.
And so, to anyone out there that has decided to put their own "spin" on one of my creations, I DARE YOU to be able to proudly stand up and say all of those things. I am PROUD of my work, and I'm proud of MY OWN CREATIONS! I'm proud to have some of the best followers ever, and proud to say that I've made so many friends through Craftster and my blog. If you think you can do it better, then go for it. Want to know why? Because while you try and imitate my work, I'm going to be here, having fun, and hopefully still making stuff to put a smile on someone's face, somewhere in the world.
After all, you know what they say, "Imitation is the best form of flattery."
These are a few things that I'm going to start making for the store! I've been totally bogged down lately with custom orders, and quite a few that I can't show, but I was able to make a few quick patterns for new stuff for the shop. :)
I know we all have come to love and become addicted to Angry Birds. If not, then you must be living under a rock! I can't wait to make more of these and put them in the shop!
And now, here is my rant.
First and foremost, I would like to 100% thank every one of my followers and my Facebook fans. You guys seriously make my day. I look forward to any blog comments, or picture or post comments on Facebook. Because of you, my rant coming up, isn't so hard to deal with. I posted something briefly on Facebook and the outpouring of comments seriously just made my day.
Lately, I've been finding copycats.
This has been devastating to say the least. The newest one I found today on Etsy, selling things INCREDIBLY similar to mine, for cheaper.
I also happen to know that both of these recent copycats are on Craftster. Sadly, because of this, I've decided to no longer post my crafts on Craftster.
It's a truly sad day when creativity is gone, and has turned to stealing.
And so, this is what I have to say to all of that.
#1. I understand that I do charge more for my items. My mini's are about $25 plus shipping and handling. I would like to take a minute to explain why. I don't think I ever have, and I would like to explain the amount of work that goes into this.
The basic head, body and arms on my mini's takes me AT LEAST 2 hours to make. This doesn't include any color changing. Hair will take at least 1-2 hours as well. I make wigs for every one of my mini's that has hair, and each strand of yarn is individually threaded through a wig cap. Any accessories on them (skirt, jacket, etc.) takes even more time. This is all time, not even mentioning the amount of money spent on yarn and safety eyes and/or felt for any accessories. I do charge more, but I promise, I put my heart and soul into them. Most of the time, it's really hard to part with my creations because I kind of grow a bond. lol.
#2. In the time I spend actually crocheting everything, I want you to know that I put EXTRA CAREFUL time into sewing any and all parts onto my mini's. If I'm making something that I know is for a child, I make sure that everything is good and sturdy. I've been told that my stuff can easily go in and out of a washing machine due to children's wear and tear. I loved hearing that knowing that what I make is safe for children!
#3. I genuinely love what I do. I love sitting down and being creative, writing notes and drawing doodles for next projects. I love the mistakes made when writing patterns, and I love even more when I finally feel that I've perfected a pattern. I love making stuff that will make someone out there smile. I love the thought of my art being in people's houses, being conversation starters or just being there to make someone smile. I am 100% serious when I say that I LOVE to crochet.
And so, to anyone out there that has decided to put their own "spin" on one of my creations, I DARE YOU to be able to proudly stand up and say all of those things. I am PROUD of my work, and I'm proud of MY OWN CREATIONS! I'm proud to have some of the best followers ever, and proud to say that I've made so many friends through Craftster and my blog. If you think you can do it better, then go for it. Want to know why? Because while you try and imitate my work, I'm going to be here, having fun, and hopefully still making stuff to put a smile on someone's face, somewhere in the world.
After all, you know what they say, "Imitation is the best form of flattery."
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Projects, projects, projects.
Due to my overwhelming amount of custom orders, anything else ordered will be about 2 weeks out. I can't believe the amount of responses I've been receiving! It's so amazing! I'm so glad that I'm able to do this and make people happy!
Here's some of my newest. First up is Dr. Zoidberg, done by request.
His jacket is also removable.
This is a platypus made for a friend. He got sent out today too!
And here's the newest progress on my scarf! I've been working on it every once in a while when I'm not too busy. :)
Please ignore the pink furry slippers. haha!
Ok, that's it for today! I hope everyone is having a great weekend. I must get back to work now!
Here's some of my newest. First up is Dr. Zoidberg, done by request.
His jacket is also removable.
This is a platypus made for a friend. He got sent out today too!
And here's the newest progress on my scarf! I've been working on it every once in a while when I'm not too busy. :)
Please ignore the pink furry slippers. haha!
Ok, that's it for today! I hope everyone is having a great weekend. I must get back to work now!
Going Green!
So this post is brought on by a few things.
#1. My sister recently started a blog! She's a serious health nut. When she mentioned that she wanted to do a giveaway, I jumped at the chance!
So, I explained to her that I make these and use them ALL THE TIME. You know those cotton rounds that most people use to remove makeup or wash their face? Here's a great solution to those! These are 100% reusable, just throw them in the wash with your clothes. They're 100% natural cotton which means no harmful dyes.
I'm making some for my sister's giveaway, and I think I'll make a couple sets to stick in the shop to see how they do. I think they're great though. I really do use them all the time. :)
#2. I couldn't be more excited for Spring. It's not quite here in Montana yet, but I can't wait for it! With the coming of Spring/Summer here, we also get the Farmer's Market. Every year I get so excited for this. Farmer's from all over bring their delicious fruits and veggies. My ALL TIME FAVORITE thing to buy at my farmer's market is garlic. There's a guy that sells it and it's the most potent garlic I've ever had. I love it so much!
So I thought I would make a produce bag for us to bring to our Farmer's Market instead of using the plastic bags they provide. Along with that I made a separate garlic bag to keep my garlic in and hang in my kitchen! These are also made out of the same 100% cotton that's all natural. :)
To give you an idea of size, there's about 5 mangos in the big bag.
That's it for now! I'll be back in a little bit with an update on some projects and my progress on my scarf. I hope everyone is having a great weekend!
#1. My sister recently started a blog! She's a serious health nut. When she mentioned that she wanted to do a giveaway, I jumped at the chance!
So, I explained to her that I make these and use them ALL THE TIME. You know those cotton rounds that most people use to remove makeup or wash their face? Here's a great solution to those! These are 100% reusable, just throw them in the wash with your clothes. They're 100% natural cotton which means no harmful dyes.
I'm making some for my sister's giveaway, and I think I'll make a couple sets to stick in the shop to see how they do. I think they're great though. I really do use them all the time. :)
#2. I couldn't be more excited for Spring. It's not quite here in Montana yet, but I can't wait for it! With the coming of Spring/Summer here, we also get the Farmer's Market. Every year I get so excited for this. Farmer's from all over bring their delicious fruits and veggies. My ALL TIME FAVORITE thing to buy at my farmer's market is garlic. There's a guy that sells it and it's the most potent garlic I've ever had. I love it so much!
So I thought I would make a produce bag for us to bring to our Farmer's Market instead of using the plastic bags they provide. Along with that I made a separate garlic bag to keep my garlic in and hang in my kitchen! These are also made out of the same 100% cotton that's all natural. :)
To give you an idea of size, there's about 5 mangos in the big bag.
That's it for now! I'll be back in a little bit with an update on some projects and my progress on my scarf. I hope everyone is having a great weekend!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
An Etsy SNUB?!
What?!
The day has come where I have actually been snubbed by an Etsian. I must say, I am APPALLED! Here's the story:
I have been on a hunt for a cute wristlet. What better place to find one than Etsy, right?! So, I go to one of my favorite sellers.
**For my own personal reasons, I will not name the seller here.**
So, I go to my trusted seller. This seller is considered trusted, in my opinion, because I've ordered a few things from her, and I really like her work. I feel that she's very professional and her stuff is well made. But then I notice, *GASP!* she doesn't have her wristlets in her store right now! So, I figured, after searching around Etsy and finally just wanting one of her wristlets, I convo her. So, I did.....TWO WEEKS AGO!
Now, some of you may say something like, "Amy, give her a break, maybe she's out of town, maybe there's something wrong."
Now, if something was wrong, I would understand. However, instead of having her respond to me, VERY willing to hand her over my money for her goods, she decides to ignore me. How do I know this? Because I follow her blog....EVERY....DAY....and every day, there's a new post. AND, she's been COMPLETELY re-doing her store lately. So, basically, I feel like I got an Etsy snub.
However, this will not discourage me! I have another seller that I plan on ordering my wristlet from, someone that I also trust, and someone who has them on hand in their store, so hopefully there will be no snubs. :)
So, here is my quick tribute to my new awesome Etsy experiences!!
xo Greetings
I just ordered something from her shop recently! The shipping was fast, and I love my notecards! Writing letters is a lost art, which is so sad. Next time you want to write a letter, you should consider buying some notecards here. I would recommend this ADORABLE pear note card.
Ah, the awesome KapomCrafts!
So, on the hunt for a fun case for my iphone, I stumbled upon this awesome little shop. Affordable, quick shipping and cute stuff! This is the case I got, and I opted for the optional wristlet in the same fabric. It clips onto my strap of my purse so my phone isn't just rolling around and getting scratched in my purse, and I can easily find it if it rings. I definitely think you should go check them out!
Sealed With a Kiss jewelry
I will admit that I've been going a bit crazy in this shop lately! She's got some SUPER awesome stuff in there (yes, I even ordered a few things tonight. lol!) and super well made and really quick shipping. Also, if you become a fan on their Facebook page, she has daily deals for her stuff for CHEAP!!! Go now!
I think this is my favorite piece in there right now.
That's all for right now. I feel better now that I've ranted for a bit. Now, I think I'll buy my wristlet from a RELIABLE seller. :)
The day has come where I have actually been snubbed by an Etsian. I must say, I am APPALLED! Here's the story:
I have been on a hunt for a cute wristlet. What better place to find one than Etsy, right?! So, I go to one of my favorite sellers.
**For my own personal reasons, I will not name the seller here.**
So, I go to my trusted seller. This seller is considered trusted, in my opinion, because I've ordered a few things from her, and I really like her work. I feel that she's very professional and her stuff is well made. But then I notice, *GASP!* she doesn't have her wristlets in her store right now! So, I figured, after searching around Etsy and finally just wanting one of her wristlets, I convo her. So, I did.....TWO WEEKS AGO!
Now, some of you may say something like, "Amy, give her a break, maybe she's out of town, maybe there's something wrong."
Now, if something was wrong, I would understand. However, instead of having her respond to me, VERY willing to hand her over my money for her goods, she decides to ignore me. How do I know this? Because I follow her blog....EVERY....DAY....and every day, there's a new post. AND, she's been COMPLETELY re-doing her store lately. So, basically, I feel like I got an Etsy snub.
However, this will not discourage me! I have another seller that I plan on ordering my wristlet from, someone that I also trust, and someone who has them on hand in their store, so hopefully there will be no snubs. :)
So, here is my quick tribute to my new awesome Etsy experiences!!
xo Greetings
I just ordered something from her shop recently! The shipping was fast, and I love my notecards! Writing letters is a lost art, which is so sad. Next time you want to write a letter, you should consider buying some notecards here. I would recommend this ADORABLE pear note card.
Ah, the awesome KapomCrafts!
So, on the hunt for a fun case for my iphone, I stumbled upon this awesome little shop. Affordable, quick shipping and cute stuff! This is the case I got, and I opted for the optional wristlet in the same fabric. It clips onto my strap of my purse so my phone isn't just rolling around and getting scratched in my purse, and I can easily find it if it rings. I definitely think you should go check them out!
Sealed With a Kiss jewelry
I will admit that I've been going a bit crazy in this shop lately! She's got some SUPER awesome stuff in there (yes, I even ordered a few things tonight. lol!) and super well made and really quick shipping. Also, if you become a fan on their Facebook page, she has daily deals for her stuff for CHEAP!!! Go now!
I think this is my favorite piece in there right now.
That's all for right now. I feel better now that I've ranted for a bit. Now, I think I'll buy my wristlet from a RELIABLE seller. :)
Photo Dump!
I'm just going to post random things here, including my newest projects and what not. I'm coming back in just a little bit for a slight rant as well, and another tribute to Etsy!
For now, here you go!
Custom order, Peter Pan!
I have some other custom orders that I need to take pictures of, I just haven't yet. :)
Sunday I took some time to myself and actually made something for me! In case you haven't seen him on Facebook yet, here he is. I LOOOOVE him so much! I got the pattern here, and I highly recommend this seller! I've purchased a pattern from her before, and this one doesn't disappoint either.
I haven't named him just yet, but I love him. :)
And this is what I"m currently working on: a blue platypus! haha!
Ok, that's all for now! coming right up, another *hopefully* inspirational Etsy post! :)
For now, here you go!
Custom order, Peter Pan!
I have some other custom orders that I need to take pictures of, I just haven't yet. :)
Sunday I took some time to myself and actually made something for me! In case you haven't seen him on Facebook yet, here he is. I LOOOOVE him so much! I got the pattern here, and I highly recommend this seller! I've purchased a pattern from her before, and this one doesn't disappoint either.
I haven't named him just yet, but I love him. :)
And this is what I"m currently working on: a blue platypus! haha!
Ok, that's all for now! coming right up, another *hopefully* inspirational Etsy post! :)
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Progress and projects
Yes, as usual, I've been busy!
Currently, I'm working on A LOT of custom orders! I'm almost done with 2 and that means I probably only have about 3 left. It's going really great though! I love getting custom orders from people, especially with new ideas. It's been so much fun!
I got a pretty awesome swap package from an old swapper of mine. She does AMAZING work in clay. And this is what I got in the mail today!!
Haha! I love it. And yes, I am aware that this makes me a complete nerd. You can find her shop here. Her stuff is really good quality. We were partnered up for a swap a long time ago, and we've been swapping ever since. haha!
Also, I'm making progress on my scarf. It's now at 22 inches long! Woohoo!
In other news, I've been going a bit crazy buying accessories for my phone. For the record, I don't know how people live without iPhones. I just love mine! So, I got a few accessories that should be on their way SOON! Woohoo!
Ok, that's it for now. I'll probably stop by tomorrow to chat some more. :)
Currently, I'm working on A LOT of custom orders! I'm almost done with 2 and that means I probably only have about 3 left. It's going really great though! I love getting custom orders from people, especially with new ideas. It's been so much fun!
I got a pretty awesome swap package from an old swapper of mine. She does AMAZING work in clay. And this is what I got in the mail today!!
Haha! I love it. And yes, I am aware that this makes me a complete nerd. You can find her shop here. Her stuff is really good quality. We were partnered up for a swap a long time ago, and we've been swapping ever since. haha!
Also, I'm making progress on my scarf. It's now at 22 inches long! Woohoo!
In other news, I've been going a bit crazy buying accessories for my phone. For the record, I don't know how people live without iPhones. I just love mine! So, I got a few accessories that should be on their way SOON! Woohoo!
Ok, that's it for now. I'll probably stop by tomorrow to chat some more. :)
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