Featured Seller - Living Glass Art

Your first name, and your store name?

Anna Varney livingglassart

What part of the world are from?

Tennessee, USA between Nashville and Memphis

What does customer service mean to you?

Everything, really. My joy is creating and I'm thrilled to be able to share my joy with my customers. When it comes to custom designs for a client, I will work with them until a design is to their liking even if it means weeks of discussion and design approval. I work alone so that means I am the designer, the producer and packaging engineer. Since glass is a fragile item, I take great care in packaging to assure the item arrives at its destination undamaged.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

There have been so many. Most recently, I created a piece, a stained glass cat face ornament, for a client of her cat who was very ill. She received the piece and the very same day her cat passed away. The piece, she says, warms her heart to see everyday and has eased in her pain since she misses her cat so much.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

All of my works are original in design. I take great care in selecting quality materials. If they don't meet my standards I won't use them. I like to think that I'm creating unique works that make people say, "Wow".

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

Life experiences. As far as my craft is concerned, I'm basically self taught. I took one 8 hour class and set out on my own. I've held a number of different positions in a variety of fields and I guess I've learned a little bit from all of them.

What is your goal for the next year?

To develop new and exciting designs and to work on my organization skills.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

My desire to create is so strong I suppose its self motivating.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

Not as much as I need to at the moment. I need to investigate different options for advertisement.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Create something that you love. If you don't love what you do don't expect anyone else to love it either.

Thank you Anna! Your beautiful stained glass artwork blew us away. Such stunning colours and interesting designs that would suit many homes, at very reasonable prices. One of our favorite pieces is showcased above, called Aqua Blue Hanging Stained Glass Panel with Glass Bevels, available for $100 USD.

Check out Living Glass Art for a beautiful variety of stained glass art.

Featured Seller - twobadbananas

Your first name, and your store name?

My name is Cat, and my shop name is twobadbananas.etsy.com.

What part of the world are from?

I'm from York, a beautiful historic city in England.

What does customer service mean to you?

Well, I want anyone who buys anything from me to be as excited and happy about it as I am (which is pretty excited!). I want to be helpful and friendly throughout a transaction, and I want them to know how pleased it makes me that they like something I've made enough to spend money on it. I always add a handwritten thank you and a little extra something to my parcels.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Definitely Mary, who runs her own jewellery shop (heatbreakjewelry.etsy.com). I met her through etsy, purchased items from her, and her from me. She is so friendly and such fun to talk with, I had a great time preparing her order for her, and I was so thrilled when she left her feedback saying how much she loved her jewellery. She told me she changed her shirt as soon as the parcel arrived so she could wear my necklace, and that she cut the stickers off the parcel and saved them. Making Mary happy made me so happy, I was grinning all day!

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

When you read my listings I try to make my items as interesting and personable as I can. I'll tell you what music I was listening to, or what tv programme I had on in the background as I made each particular item, and even sometimes what snack I had in the middle of my crafty session! As for my fruit and vegetable characters, I've given them all names and personalities, a task I enjoyed a little bit too much, I think. I'm a geek at heart!

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

As a very strange child! I played with Sylvanian Families, but it worried me a lot that there wasn't really enough food to go round a village full of woodland creatures (as I said, strange child!). My Mum bought me fimo so I could make food for them and I never looked back. I took a break from creating anything at all whilst I was at University as my time was taken up with being in Pantomimes, running the Archaeology Society, oh, yeah, and my degree ;) Now I work full time in a shop, so I think that also helps me when it comes to knowing what designs will sell, and how to communicate with my customers.

What is your goal for the next year?

Next year? I'd like to be completely free of my student debt, and have saved up enough money to learn to drive. Then I can start going to craft shows and displaying there. As regards my etsy shop, it'd be nice to make 100 sales. That'd be a cool landmark :)

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

As I'm new to etsy so my sales haven't really taken off yet. I'm still excited when I can tell people have viewed my items! But I take great heart from real life reactions people have to my jewellery when I'm wearing it. It reassures me that there is a market for the things I make. I just remind myself that selling online is a different kettle of fish to selling in a shop, and that things will pick up for me.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

This is like my secondary hobby at the moment! Well, I'm being featured in this blog, and in a giveaway on another blog soon. I've made a facebook fanpage (tinyurl.com/twobadbananas) and when I hit 50 members I'm going to start running promotions just for my fans.

I've just started using twitter (twitter.com/twobadbananas) although I am wary of being a spammer so I'm pretty easygoing with it. I also have a blog (twobadbananas.blogspot.com), and a webpage (twobadbananas.com), both aimed at making me more recognisable.

I'm also in the process of running an ad on Craftcult, and I sell in a bricks and mortar shop, and am hoping to expand to one or two other shops soon. I've had business cards printed which I give out to people who I chat with when they admire my jewellery, which I try to wear nearly every day.

This is the hardest part for me, wearing jewellery I've made over things I own, as I'm a bit of a jewellery fiend! Also, I pop a card and a home-made twobadbananas badge in with all the goodies I send out to my customers, so hopefully they can help spread the word for me.

Lastly, I make my friends and family a lot of jewellery, because they promote for me without even knowing they are doing it half the time! I'm hoping that my excitingly decorated parcels, extra goodies and unusual designs, combined with my friendly attitude, will foster repeat sales for me.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Be prepared for a lot of hard work! I thought I went in prepared, and I am still shocked by how much of my free time promoting takes up. I think I spend more time online nowadays than I do creating jewellery, which is sad, but necessary. But it's worth it. It's an amazing feeling when someone buys something you've made. Go for it!:)

Do you have a current promotion or contest you'd like to share with our readers?

Yes! Readers of this blog who purchase any item from me are eligible for free postage when they mention "I Made That Blog" in the Notes to Seller box. Just convo me to sort it out.

Thank you Cat! Your shop is so cute and fun! We've chosen our favorite piece from your shop to showcase on our blog, the Babooshka, Babooshka Necklace, available for only $11 USD!

Please check out twobadbananas for other terrific cutesy finds to add to your accessory collection!

Featured Seller - RosaleenDhu Designs

For your shopping pleasure, we are happy to introduce...

RosaleenDhu Designs

http://rosaleendhu.etsy.com/

What part of the world are from?

Right between Los Angeles and Disneyland!

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means remembering that customers are people too, and not just potential sources of income. From brainstorming to shipping, I want to try to think of what will make my customers the most happy while still maintaining reasonable business practices.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

I think my most memorable customer with this shop was the lovely woman at the table next to me at my last convention. When I was setting up, she asked to see one of my scarves, and ended up being my first sale of the show. And over the next three days, I think she bought 4 or 5 more! And her friends bought another three! Fellow sellers are NOT competition. They're potential customers. ;)

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

Honestly, my items are pretty unique. There are some sellers out there who have animal scarves, but none of them do the neckwarmers that are my bestsellers, and the animal style is pretty different from my long ones.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

I learned sewing through osmosis. My mother used to make all of my dresses for church and picture days, and I can remember making a doll quilt when I was about 5. I learned to be fearless about crafting in Girl Scouts, and that's also where I learned a lot about sales. By the time I got to high school, I couldn't rely on just being really cute to sell cookies. Being in retail for nearly ten years taught me a lot about the importance of presentation and customer service.

What is your goal for the next year?

I've got two big ones! The first one is to be more organized with my paperwork and record keeping. Taxes were not fun at all, and I want to make that whole process less painful. The second one is to come up with a product line that's a either less seasonal or more Summer-y.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I've got some pretty big shows I do spread out over the year. If etsy is slow, I can focus on preparing for those. If I don't feel like I need to work on show-prep, I use the slow time to develop new designs or learn something new.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

I probably don't do as much to attract clients as I should. I renew or list items at least a few times a week. I post in the forums on etsy. I'm part of the California Crafters Club of Etsy Team. I have a blog. I have a DeviantArt account. I wear my own product when the weather allows.

I don't really do anything specificly to attract return business. I just do my best to offer quality product and excellent service, and I think that goes a long way. Most of my return customers mention being really pleased with the quality of my sewing. I do include a handwritten thank you in every package, and I like including small gifts as well.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

No matter how carefully you calculate things, a successful shop will take over far more of your life and your house than you expect. It's not a bad thing, but be ready for it, and start planning the excuses you'll need to give the rest of your household now.

Thanks Máire! Check out RosaleenDhu Designs at http://rosaleendhu.etsy.com.

Prices range from $20-35 USD

$5 Deal Of The Week - Design Knit Fun

Our $5 deal of the week is courtesy of Design Knit Fun! This pretty handknit ring is a unique find! We have never seen a knit ring before, but it is quite lovely! We love the colours of this piece, but it is also available in additional colors: pink/purple/teal and orange and green based.

We attempted to showcase this piece earlier but it sold!
Check out Design Knit Fun's other designs and creations here.

Featured Seller - Simply Smiss

What does customer service mean to you?

I make my items to the best of my ability, and take time to make sure they look good before I send them out. I try to create nice packaging that would look nice when given as a gift. And I love to include an extra little goodie with every order!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

My first customer would have to be my most memorable. I was very excited that someone wanted to BUY my stuff!!!

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I don't just slap the fabric on the buttons, like I have seen some. I try to go for symmetry to keep a polished appearance. I also donate 10% of all my sales to the etsy for animals charity of the month!

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

Lots of playing with different materials

What is your goal for the next year?

Just looking to create new and more interesting items, learn new skills.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Talking to other sellers. Usually it's a general slump around all the shops and I keep in mind that it's not for a lack of people liking my items!

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

I offer BOGO sales to bring in new sales; I create great products and show my appreciation to keep them coming back!

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Don't think you can sit back and let the store do all the work. You have to get out there and promote your shop! Have fun with it and be proud of your work!

*SPECIAL PROMO FOR I MADE THAT BLOG READERS FROM FEATURED SELLER SMISS00!*

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE! (equal or lesser value) I can give you a refund through paypal, or send me a convo and I will create a new listing for you. PLUS my little extra goodie! :)

Visit Simply Smiss at www.smiss00.etsy.com

Admin Comment: We can't say enough great things about Jennifer, owner of Simply Smiss, she is just a lovely person with a great selection of items in her shop. We especially love the bee themed items!! Thanks Jennifer for your great interview.

Featured Seller - Birch Soaps

What part of the world are you in?

I am in the Pacific Northwest in busy Seattle Washington.

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer Service to me means doing what ever it takes to make your customer feel like them and their order is the most important thing to me. Getting their order in their hands safely in a very timely manner, having great communication and of course delivering a all around pleasing product!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Recently, a friend of one of my best repeat customers contacted me and explained that she wanted to get her friend one of my gift packs for Easter. We both talked about how much we love this certain mutual customer/friend and how big her heart is. She had mentioned that she was a bit short on money, but not in a way that she was expecting anything from me. I told her that I would love to donate the gift pack in her name. She was so thankful that she spread the word about my shop and great customer service. We are great friends now!

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

There are so many wonderful soapers out there! I would have to say that I like to make my soaps visually reflect the fragrance. For example my Bahama Beach bar has a "sandy" brown bottom with a ocean blue top, to visually make you think the ocean along with that fragrance. I try to do that with each bar and make it bright and fun. And of course just trying to add something new everyday, I have a long list of products to bring in that I'm very excited about.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

Marketing wise I learned a TON from talking to other successful sellers in the Etsy Forums. There is such a wealth of information there that I know I would not be where I am with out them and the ability to use the forums. Soap wise, I was sparked to try soaping from a article in Bust magazine along with a tutorial. I made my first bar of Cold process and was hooked from then on out. I did a TON of research using my buddy Google and just expanded my craft by learning hands on. I also have to credit a fellow soap maker for doing lots of tech support with me! Thanks MorganStreet!!

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for the next year is to bring in 3 new product lines. To really nail down a successful marketing plan that works for me. And of course I would love to keep working towards being the Featured Seller on Etsy. I think that would be a great challenge for me! But most importantly, my goal is to continue to bring great customer service and pampering products to the masses!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

When its slow, I keep motivated by talking to my fellow soapers and other sellers in the forums that might be slow as well. Its important to know its not just you. You always get the best ideas for new soaps or marketing techniques when its slow! It forces you to get creative! I also love to browse the Bath and Beauty buying section, just to see what others are creating and to stay inspired!What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business? I think building relationships is really important. Not just spamming social networking sites like Twitter, I spend time reading and getting to know all 1,057 followers (do you believe that for a second haha) I think once they shop with me and get that great service and product they will naturally come back to me, I can only hope!

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

I would say to know your market when you come into it! Google is your friend! Once you feel like you have nailed down who your market is. Find the venue that best matches that. Where are they hanging out? 1000market? Etsy? Artfire? Do your business homework. Dont try to do ALL of the marketing opportunity's that walk across your plate, you will get overwhelmed trust me! But most importantly, set realistic goals. Even if they are silly, at least you will feel like you are accomplishing instead of failing!

SPECIAL PROMO FOR MADE THAT BLOG READERS - I would love to offer the lovely readers a Free Lip balm of their choice with any order.Or if they spend over $10.00 they will receive a free balm along with 10% off when they mention this blog in the notes to seller at check out! Also if I may add, that I have a wonderful monthly newsletter with coupons, company news and beauty recipes that you can try at home! Join the fun here>> http://eepurl.com/V1W

Our favorite part was you donating a gift pack to your customer/ mutual friend. It is a great feeling to help people in need. I remember reading a customers bio after they had placed an order and read how a large percentage of her profits went to breast cancer research so we just added free beads with her order (in pink of course!) in hopes she would use them to create a bracelet for breast cancer. Doing something selfless gives you such a great all over feeling and you cross those mere "buyer/ seller" labels.

You've done wonderfully well with your etsy shop with over 500 sales and counting! Your delicious looking soaps, lip balms, and lotion bars are flying off your virtual shelves. We know you will do very well this upcoming year and we are delighted to share your shop with our readers, we only wish we could smell your lovely soaps through our computer monitor!

Please check out Birch Soaps located at http://www.mybirch.etsy.com or http://www.birchsoaps.artfire.com.

Any wholesale inquries can view their portfolio here, http://www.trunkt.org/mybirch

Featured Seller - Jewelry by Lorelei Eurto

What part of the world are you in?

Upstate NY, USA

What does customer service mean to you?

EVERYTHING! I treat my customers exactly how I would want to be treated when buying handmade items. Showing pride in my work, concentrating on packaging, sending confirmation emails, and leaving positive feedback for my customers- happens for every single sale.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

A pivotal point in my Etsy career was when I sold a necklace to a woman in Spain. It never made it to her. I made another and sent it. The second necklace never made it to her. The second necklace came back to me. The first one is sitting in customs somewhere. This directly resulted in my decision to ship Registered mail for every international order!

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I believe that photographs play a large role in the sale of my jewelry. I try my very best to photograph the piece of jewelry in a way that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. That first photo is the one that pulls the buyer in to begin with.I also enjoy creating a bond or relationship with my customers, and this in turn, keeps them coming back for more. My jewelry is really fun and the shopping experience is easy-going!

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

I learned a lot by shopping around on Etsy. I love buying from fellow Etsians, I get a sense of how they do business, what I like and dislike from each sale, and I've taken pointers from these transactions. I have also been doing this for about 2 years, so I've had quite a bit of experience. Most of which is completely 100% positive!

What is your goal for the next year?

I'd like to get my own website up and running smoothly by next year. I'd also like to figure out how to have a nice online gallery of my sold work. Selling on Etsy is my hobby and most of my earnings go back into Etsy, or buying supplies. As long as I can keep selling, I'm happy!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Luckily, I'm part of a pretty amazing online beading community. Reading their blogs, and keeping up on what they're doing keeps me motivated! There is an amazing amount of talent out there, and they never cease to inspire me!

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

Sometimes I offer specials in my shop, or send coupons for 20% off of their next purchase. Seems to work like a charm so far!

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering openingtheir own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Invest in a great camera! Online shopping relies heavily on decent photographs. Since the shopper can't touch, and feel the piece they are purchasing, you want to provide them with really great, bright, and clear photographs so that they know what they're getting. That visual is the next best thing next to touch!

SPECIAL PROMO FOR 'I MADE THAT" BLOG READERS - Enter the code I MADE THAT into the notes to seller and I will give 20% off of one item in my shop. Wait for a revised invoice before paying!

Great promo offer for our readers Lorelei! We love being able to share not only talented artisans but great deals with our readers!
You've had some great success over the last two years with well over 500 sales in your shop! We can see why, lovely choice of colors, shapes, and textures that are pleasing to the eye.

Check out Lorelei's online store, Jewelry by Lorelei Eurto, and don't forget that 20% off special promo!

Featured Seller - PolishedTwo - Pottery Shard Jewelry & Whimsical Accessory Designs

What part of the world are you in?

I live in sunny Austin, Texas -- known as the Live Music Capital of the World!

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means creating a happy buyer experience. It means providing a well-crafted product and showing your appreciation for the customer's choice of your art.

It is often the little added touches like this that keep people coming back for more handmade items-- it feels good to buy them!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

I have several repeat customers that check back with me monthly and buy new items, but my most memorable recent customer is one that pretty much designs the jewelry herself. Its fun: she gives me the specifications, points me in the direction of the supplies to use, and tells me her ideas. She leaves the handiwork to me and I've made her lots of custom items this way. In fact, the best thing about it is that she really planted the seed of some new ideas for my designs through these special requests. I've ended up incorporating new materials into my jewelry based on some of her suggestions.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I'm not sure if it is my marketing, my packaging, or my customer service, but one thing I do hear from my customers is that I have the fastest turnaround time on shipping. People buying from Etsy shops often buy from several sellers at once. I've had customers say that my packages are the first to arrive. With hundreds of thousands of jewelry makers on Etsy, this is just one way that I've work hard to set myself apart.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

I am mostly self-taught. I love to accessorize and was especially in love with the unique jewelry I could find at boutique stores, but I've been doing crafts my whole life so I always had the mentality of "I could make that!" When I moved to Austin about 10 years ago, I researched materials and tools and attempted to make my own jewelry. My first attempts were pretty elementary, but I took a basic class from a jewelry-making friend and my obsession began. I also subscribed to some beading magazines and picked up a few techniques along the way, but now I can generally figure things out on my own through trial and error.

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for next year is to incorporate more vintage elements.

I do a lot of estate sale shopping and sometimes incorporate little antique treasures into my work, but I'd like to do more of that in the future. I have a box I've been collecting and its full of all sorts of enameled metal flower brooches and pins from my estate sale hunts over the past several years. I'd like to add a new line to my collection that incorporates these flowers into one-of-a-kind necklaces.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

When sales are slow I have time to work on new designs, but it is also the best time to push harder on marketing. There are so many ways to market yourself and many methods are free--but they take an investment in time to really work. If sales are slow, I know that I always have more marketing to do. It is also a good time for me to assess my supplies and see what I need to order and stock up on before the next sales rush.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

The number one thing that I do is add something new to my Etsy shop every day. If I am home, I am listing new stuff! This works for several reasons: I get more visibility just by listing something and staying at the top of searches. Also, people start to recognize the "style" of your items and photography as they're shopping on Etsy, especially when the style is consistent. And previous customers come back to your shop and constantly see new things to buy.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering openingtheir own store of handmade items, what would it be?

I would say, "Do what you love!" You are going to invest a lot of time in trying to sell your craft, so make sure it is something you are ultimately passionate about.

Thank you Tracy for sharing your wonderful work with us and our readers. We agree, turnaround time is very important in this crafting business. Its tough completiting especially in jewelry making as there are many terrific and talented artists like yourself. We know this first hand from selling jewelry supplies in our etsy shop, one of the most frequent compliments we get is fast shipping/ turnaround. Getting the property to the customer quickly and safely makes for repeat customers, which you've already discovered in your own shop!

We love your use of colour and your nature inspired theme, especially with summer coming up! Please check out PolishedTwo Jewelry on their website located here: http://polishedtwo.etsy.com/

Featured Seller - Kristen Stein Fine Art

What part of the world are you in?

The Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Suburbs.

What does customer service mean to you?

I think customer service is incredibly important. In addition to enjoying the artwork, the customer wants to enjoy the entire purchase experience. Every element that makes up the transaction will leave a lasting impression on the buyer. So, you want to make the transaction as perfect as possible. This includes notifying the buyer with shipment information and carefully and professionally wrapping the item for shipping.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Oh my.... I've had so many wonderful customers....it's hard to choose just one. But, if I had to choose one, I'd probably say that it's the customer for whom I created several original pet portraits of her beloved dogs. At the time, she knew I was pregnant with my first child. She sent me one of my very first baby gifts....a beautifully woven cotton blanket which my daughter adores to this day....now 4 years later. It was such a thoughtful gift and really touched us.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

This is a hard question as I would need to know what the other sellers are doing differently from me. I suspect that we are all very passionate about our craft and doing what we can to be successful, so...in that respect....I'm probably not all that different from the other sellers. I just love what I do and try to do it to the best of my ability.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

Friends, family and fellow artists have all be instrumental in helping me hone my skills as a seller and an artist. My husband has listened to me reason through my different selling 'strategies' and offered lots of great advice over the years. Sometimes it is useful to just have another 'set of ears' to help listen to ideas. Granted....there's a lot of trial and error and a bit of risk-taking involved and not every project ends up being successful. But, I think you can also learn a lot from your mistakes.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I took one art class in high school and an elective class in college. But, I think the desire to draw, paint and create is truly in my nature. My parents are both very creative people. My father is an extremely talented woodworker and my mother is great with photography, silkscreening and other crafty items. It just seems like second-nature to me to be expressing myself in this way.

What is your goal for the next year?

I'd love to be doing exactly what I'm doing while also trying to help my business grow. As I am relatively new to the East Coast, I'd love to be able to expand my business to some of the local boutiques and galleries in the area. In addition, I'd love to be able to work on some sort of wholesale business or licensing of my artwork, graphics and illustrations.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

The artwork itself is very motivating. Even if it isn't moving as quickly as in previous months, it is still a wonderful feeling to be creating something from a blank canvas. It's tough when sales are down, but there is almost always a kind email or word from a potential buyer to let you know that your work is appreciated.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?

I advertise my website online and I use the social networking platforms like Facebook and Twitter. I often offer discounts for multiple purchases, free shipping offers and special rewards for returning customers.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Do it! If you love what you do and the work makes you happy, it will likely bring joy to other people as well. Try your luck and see how it works for you. You never know until you try. The business cycle can get frustrating...especially in the slowest of times....but continue to create according to your passion, and eventually the market will upswing again.

You are correct Kristen, this business is a lot of trial and error. A lot of hard work and dedication. That's why we love showcasing artists like you! We know what it is like and we love promoting wonderful new talent. Thanks so much Kristen for sharing your beautiful artwork with our readers!

Check out Kristens online store, located at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5192173 and check out her wide selection of: signed prints, photographs, fine art tiles, pendants and gift certificates. Prices range from $10-475.

*SPECIAL PROMO* FREE USA SHIPPING for a limited time only!

$5 Deal Of The Week - Oh How I Love Little Bees Magnets

We were kind of biased to this particular product, the "Oh How I Love Little Bees" Magnets, as they are bee related...and we love bees! We run the Etsy store, Not Bees ... BEADS! (we sell beads).

These cute magnets are available for only $5, from wonderful etsy seller Smiss.

We met Smiss in the Etsy chat and really love her kindness, sense of humor and all around great nature. Her store is chocked full of cute little goodies ranging from magnets to hair ties, necklaces, to sweet barrettes.

Visit Smiss at Smiss00.etsy.com for more cute finds! Many $5 and under!

Featured Seller - Adagio Beadcrafters

What part of the world are you in?

Sunny Florida, USA

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means going above and beyond to insure my clients are pleased with their purchases. This includes everything from using quality components to create my designs to listing them for a fair price (both from my point of view AND the purchaser) to packaging them safely and securely and includes follow-up and beyond.

In short, customer service goes from beginning to end and must be a top priority in any successful business.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

During the Christmas Holiday 2008, a woman purchased a watch from me for her daughter who was away at college. As often happens when our children move away, this young lady had grown and the watch was too small for her. She e-mailed me about the first of the year and asked if I could make it larger and change the clasp. I'm in Florida. Her college was in New England. I completed these changes without charge and in so doing, not only pleased my new customer but her mother as well. Result? Not just one new loyal client but two. What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?Although I am relatively new to the jewelry business, I try to make my items unique and different. As my skills improve, so do my designs. When I look back at some of the original designs from my old etsy shop versus the more sophisticated items now available on my artfire site, I see a uniqueness that I hope will insure my niche in this market.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

Through trial and error. Lots of error! Practice, practice, practice! I am mostly self-taught. Watching videos on You Tube, reading books and picking up tips from my beading buddy.

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for next year is to be continue to improve my skills, strengthen my customer base and increase my web presence.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Obsession! Beading is my obsession, my passion and my joy. When sales are slow, I keep hope alive that someone will browse into my shop and be drawn to my wares, appreciating their uniqueness and thereby validating my skills and rewarding my hopeful attitude.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

It's a combination of strong customer service and unique design. Making each customer feel as if she or he are your only client and making them happy will keep them coming back.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Persistence, persistence, persistence. There are going to be many frustrations at all levels. Don't give up! Patience and persistence WILL be rewarded if you hang in there!

**SPECIAL OFFER FOR "I MADE THAT!" BLOG READERS

Mention this blog article in the notes to seller and you will receive a 20% discount on any purchase!

Thank you so much for that awesome deal Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters! We really enjoyed your interview! We'd like to add that your excellent customer service as shown in your answer to your most memorable customer question will certainly make you a most memorable seller! Check out Heathers beautiful jewelry pieces via her online store, adagiobeadcrafters.artfire.com. Prices range from $15-$38 for her lovely creations.

Featured Seller - Laura Doll Boutique

What part of the world are you in?

I live in beautiful Morgan Hill, California. We are 2 hours south of San Fransisco and only 45 minutes from Sillicon Valley.

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer services means making it easy to buy from my shop! I start with good pictures of the product so they know just what they are getting. I try to be accurate with size and colour. Once the buyer makes their purchase then i get the item made, packaged safely, and shipping out right away! If a customer has questions about colours or a custom item, I do my best to offer clear helpful anwsers, so they can make the best desision about what bows to buy.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

My aunt ordered 40 sets of hair bows for my cousin's dance team. It was one of my more complex styles and they took over two weeks to complete! They were christmas presents so in Jan. I got an email from her saying they were a HUGE hit and all the girls loved them. That made it all worthwhile.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I try to play around with different styles and colour combinations. I want to be the bow shop that has the hard to find colours, sizes, and styles.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

I have learned a lot from my start on Etsy.com. I am getting much better at communicating with customers, and promoting my shop. The harder i work, the more fun it becomes!

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I do not. My friend makes hair bows and one day I asked her to teach me. She is actually the one who gave me the link to Etsy.com! Once she showed me basic designs, I bought ribbon and started work!

What is your goal for the next year?

One sale or more per day. I currently have one sale or so each week and am slowly working my way up! I would also like to add more non bow hair accessories to my shop.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

There are always ups and downs. I can get lazy about promoting my shop so a drop in sales keeps me working! I know that is ALWAYS picks up again.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

I try to get my name out on Etsy.com by posting in the forums and in treasuries. I also have a link to my shop in my email signature, so LOTS of people see it that way.
I do get a few sales by work of mouth as well.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Everyone says this... Have good pictures!! and make sure you keep up with your shop.
List new items often, and promote promote promote!

Admin Comment: Thanks so much Laura for participating in our blog and letting us show off your beautiful bows! These remind me of the bows and clips my mother used to make me when I was little that would colour coordinate with my outfits. These bows are a great accessory for the little princess in your life.
Do you have a little girl at home who loves all things pretty? Pick her up a special little gift for no reason at all! These beautiful bows are available for only $1.75-$3.50 / pair.
Check out LauraDollBoutqies shop, located at http://lauradollboutique.etsy.com

Featured Seller - Japonicas

What part of the world are you in?

Beautiful Asia, Garden City - Singapore

What does customer service mean to you?

It means everything to me! I work towards providing a service that exceeds my customers' expectation :) Many of my customers are very touched by my sincerity and have became my very good friends and supporters.They are the reason I keep creating :)

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

There are too many to mention! I have met countless wonderful people who are heads over heels over my creations and keep coming back for more! We become such good friends that we even went out for drinks several times! :)

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I set very high expectation for myself, my products' quality and presentation, as well as the customer service that I provide.I push and challenge myself to produce works that impress even myself. :) My passion is another reason that I have overwhelming ideas which set me creating new pieces all the time.I gathered that everything boils down to be able to do something that I truly enjoy. :)

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

I suppose that I am still far from being successful. Japonicas has only emerged 4 months ago and there is still a long and tough road ahead.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

Well, I have never attended any jewelry making classes. It just came naturally and I perfected the skills along the way.There is always room for improvement though, and many new interesting techniques to learn :)

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal is for Japonicas' faithful supporters to multiply in strength. Sales will be much stabilized with the recovering economy.I will have fixed bazaars and events to meet more people, stable online hit rates and orders as well as regular consignments and wholesales opportunities with boutiques.
A couple of wishful dreams; to have Japonicas in huge malls and to be able conduct jewelry making workshops in my home :)

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

When things look deem and spirit is low, my burning passion keeps it going :) The encouragement and support from my loved onesare just as important!

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?

Well, be open to possibilities and conscious to opportunities. Try getting as much exposure as possible, even if it would mean venturing into unfamiliar grounds. You never know until you try :)
Always exceed your customers' expectations in terms of quality, presentation and service. They will remember you for sure :)

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Know what you can do best, believe in it and keep the passion burning :)

Admin Comment: Thanks so much Jet for this great interview. We were really impressed by your beautiful, feminine pieces and we know your business will flourish over the next year. Passion and determination are key. You have to love what you do and it is clear you have found your calling!

Please check out Japonicas at http://japonicas.etsy.com as well as http://japonicas.com

Featured Seller - Works In Progress

What part of the world are you in?

I just recently moved to the Lake Norman area in North Carolina. I had spent the previous eleven years growing up in Maryland.
I miss it sometimes and I am still getting adjusted to my new home, but on those hard days I just look out the window at the beautiful lake and remind myself that this is a new beginning for me. Plus, the weather has been much nicer! ;)

What does customer service mean to you?

Making sure that you create a good product that your customers will enjoy and you do what you can to ensure that it all arrives safely and in a timely manner. Also that your items meet your customers' expectations based on what you wrote in the descriptions and then the accompanying photos. And if for some reason a customer is unsatisfied, you work with them to resolve any issues.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Someone bought a pair of my pearl cluster earrings and loved them! She left very sweet feedback and sent me a nice message saying how happy she was with her purchase. That kind of thing always makes you feel good about what you are doing! :) And since I am still starting out with my business, each sale is so important in building my brand and I am very happy with each one!

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

My youth. People are always surprised to find out that I have taken all of this on at age 18!

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

In school I was always a hard-working student, and good grades were very important to me. The discipline I learned from that help me now to manage my time and my business effectively. I have also always been a very observant person and my attention to detail definitely helps in my creations and my art.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I really loved my art classes in school and I have always enjoyed the creative aspects of projects. Mostly though I am self taught and I have learned a lot from my own research and not necessarily from a class. Right now I focus on my art photography, but in school all my classes were about drawing and painting. I did take a computer graphics course where I learned some editing skills that I continue to use today. And I use the lessons about composition from my drawing classes when I am taking photos. It’s important to be able to take what you have learned and apply it to new things and extend your lessons into real life.

What is your goal for the next year?

I would like to focus on expanding my enterprise and really start to make my mark on Etsy. I also hope to steadily increase sales and continue to create quality pieces and jewelry that I myself would like to wear. One big goal for me is to make the front page of Etsy; that would be a dream come true!




What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I just have to remember that especially right now in this economy people are not shopping as much, that this is true for a lot of sellers and it isn't just me and it doesn't mean I do not have a good product.


What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?

I use various social networking sites to help promote my shop and get my name out there. I often venture into Etsy chat too and give out my handmade business cards to the people I meet. I also wear jewelry I have made for myself out and about, so people can see my product. And then if anyone comments on them, just hand out a card! :)


If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

It would have to be the need to be patient. There are so many sellers and shops out there in all the online venues that it is easy for yours to get lost among them. So you just have to stick with it and never quit promoting and working on your shop. Success doesn't happen overnight and we all need to remember that. Rome wasn't built in a day! ;) So you also need to make sure that you have adequate time to be able to devote to your business, otherwise it might get pushed aside in favor of more pressing matters.

Admin Comment: Wow! Kelsey you are wise beyond your years my dear. I wish I knew that I wanted to get into running my own business when I was in high school, it would have definately helped guide my choices for college. Remember to celebrate and never lose your creativity and artistic talent! Your designs are beautiful and we are so thrilled to have you as our youngest Featured Seller on "I MADE THAT!"

Please check out Kelseys shop, Works In Progress, located at http://worksinprogress.etsy.com for a beautiful selection of handmade jewelry pieces, as well as art prints.

Featured Seller - Baubles, Bangles & Beans

What part of the world are you in?

I live in the northern part of the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, in a large town sandwiched between mountains and the seashore.

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means being courteous, being prompt with sending my jewelry, and taking pride in what I send.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

My very first customer was recovering from a life threatening illness, and yet she was so kind, generous and supportive to me. I will never forget her selflessness and encouragement. A lot can be accomplished with just a small act of kindness. I will never ever forget her.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I 'm sure the other sellers who make coffee bean jewelry also love coffee, so we are all probably similar in that way. I use only Fair Trade coffee beans (several varieties), and make real down-to-earth styles. I'm very casual, and make earrings that I myself would be comfortable wearing. I absolutely love making these earrings...and I get to experience that wonderful coffee aroma the whole time I'm working!

Admin comment: We've never heard of coffee bean jewelry until now, but what a unique and interesting idea! We love coffee, we love jewelry! Who doesn't really?

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

My family is wildly artistic (my husband is a writer/artist, my daughter is an award-winning fine artist, and my son is an award-winning photographer) and I just had no niche. I happened to mention one day that I was thinking that I'd like to make jewelry out of coffee beans, since I love coffee so much. The next day I came home from work and my family surprised me with a gift of earring findings, a bag of coffee beans, some beads and two "How To" books. In all honesty, and no matter how corny this may sound, it is my family that makes me successful. Without their love and support, nothing else would matter to me.

Admin comment: We love hearing stories of supportive friends and family, it creates a more positive and artistic environment for your skills and talent to bloom!

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

No, I have no formal training whatsoever.

What is your goal for the next year?

My hope for next year is that many, many people will be happily wearing earrings from Baubles, Bangles and Beans!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

My daughter is my best cheerleader. She's always encouraging me and is incredibly supportive. Plus, I happen to love the challenge of making earrings with coffee beans!

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?

I post new designs at least once a week, and try to send a little something extra with each sale.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering openingtheir own store of handmade items, what would it be?

I would advise a new vendor not to get discouraged, especially if they love what they are doing. Plus, take the opportunity to meet some of the many wonderful people in the Etsy community. Many of the artists are so supportive of each other that it just increases your confidence in what you are doing.

Admin comment: We found that too, the etsy community is chock full of fantasticlly supportive folks who are always willing to answer a question or offer advice. We love featuring talented etsy artists, in fact that is the reason we created this little blog!

We love Baubles, Bangles & Beans etsy shop, at the time of this post they have 74 coffee bean earrings for sale, that is quite the selection! Prices are very reasonable at $8 - $10 USD and what a unique gift idea for that woman you know who has to have the latest style!

**SPECIAL OFFER FOR "I MADE THAT" BLOG READERS

Buy 2 pairs of earrings and get 1 pair FREE - Use promo code: DECAF **

Check out Baubles, Bangles & Beans at www.baublesbanglesbeans.etsy.com

Featured Seller - Fashion Touch

What part of the world are you in?

I live in The Rose-City of Welland which is exactly in the centre of beautiful Regional Municipality of Niagara. The region of Niagara is a peninsula located between Lake Ontario, Lake Erie and The Niagara River. This region offers year around fun including visits to Niagara Falls and trips to award winning wineries.

What does customer service mean to you?

I truly believe that great customer service is what creates success and keeps happy satisfied customers coming back. For the last for 4 years I have worked in the customer service where I learned many aspects of maintaining good customer satisfaction. My main focus is customer satisfaction and I am doing my best to keep my Customer happy. Everyone loves to open a nice package of the personalized product they originally fell in love with. It is the little things that go long way. I thankfully was blessed with several long-term customers.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Each and every one of them is memorable. It is like event in your life, like memories you keep. Everyone one of my customers brings me the joy of understanding that I can make their day better, that someone will appreciate my work. This makes me happy.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I came from a different country and I would even say from a different world, where design of things is different and even stitches that I use are different. I also had a chance to travel a lot, so my supplies are purchased from different countries around the world. And for the rest I let my imagination go and enjoy the process.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

My education is far away from e-commerce and design, so I have to learn everything from the beginning. Thankfully there is lot of useful info online available now. The biggest help was forums on Etsy and I am very thankful to everyone who shared their best practices (CricketsCreations, TimothyAdamDesigns, etc). Mostly however my skills were aquirred at an early age in school and with learned matrons for example my grandmother and mother.
Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I grew up in Russia, where creative stitching is a mandatory credit in the elementary school where we have learned the stitches, that’s pretty much it.
What is your goal for the next year? To keep enjoying my experience. I would like to develop my market and to attract more customers as well as attract some wholesellers and boutique owners.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Winston Churchill once said: Never, never, never give up. I think this is the most wise advise we’ve ever got.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?

My main focus is to create new items so my clients would have options to choose from. Thankfully I have friends who put my link on their website. I do have some followers on Twitter, so if someone would like to follow my updates please feel welcome to do so at http://www.twitter.com/fashiontouch

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?

Research. Research what exactly you want to offer, research how to make great pictures, research how to promote your website and be patient and enjoy your craft.

That quote from Winston Churchill is very good advice. We believe in perseverance, dedication and enjoying the whole creative process. Elenas store, FashionTouch, ranges from beautiful scarves (as pictured above) to jewelry to cuffs and each piece glows with originality and beauty. We love your style Elena, it definitely has a warm European feel. Please check out Elenas online store, FashionTouch, located at http://fashiontouch.etsy.com.