Marking the calendar - hope to make it! Thanks etsy!

I've been interested in kicking off a line of fabric products for the little ones but was worried about the requirements that come with it. will be sure to log in for the session!

looking forward to reading the discussion! btw: sian's polka dot bunny is adorable! am i too old for a stuffed animal? :)

marking my calendar!

Very important information. I will make time to view the virtual.

I would love to know how the session went if you can record it for those who can't make it! I don't know why they can't focus on toys/products from major manufactures, especially the ones from overseas (since that seems to be where most of the problem is stemming from).. and leave "the little local guys" alone. Part of the charm in buying unique gifts for our little ones is that they came straight from the crafter and often are local. It would be absolutely terrible if the CPSIA closed down so many independent shops, not only for the sellers trying to make a living, but for shoppers trying to find unique, touching gifts!

Thanks so much for putting this together. I can't wait to get some valuable information!

Finally, a chat with the source on this! I can't make it, but hopefully this can be recorded--it'll be a very helpful resource for those who are looking for the final say on this topic.

Marking my calendar! I would love to gain more clarity about what should be labeled and what things would have an exception (if they are too small, they come in a set, etc).

Yay! Clothing labeling clarifications would be great. Do I need to put a date on every item I make? Most are made-to-order so I can't print labels in bulk. It is so time consuming to make a new label for every item I make. Are iron-on labels, like Avery brand transfer sheets okay?

This is wonderful! I will save the date!

Great! Will mark it in my calendar.

As an Etsy purchaser & seller of items for kids I'm interested in knowing any new rules on qualifying something as being a choking hazard. Generally we see any item with tiny parts that could become detached is not safe for children 3 years and younger - is this still the case? OR has the age been raised? Thanks Little Wee Shop

I am currently sitting on my stock of baby items, waiting to finally understand what these rules mean for my products...I started making them right before the new rules came out and now can't bring myself to post them for sale before I actually UNDERSTAND what it is I'm supposed to do to have them tested, or even if I NEED to test my products. From what I understand from reading the material the CPSIA put out, my fabric is exempt, but the fasteners I use are not on the list (zippers, snaps, etc) so I am very confused and waiting to actually finish setting up my shop until I understand. So excited about the chat!

Looking forward to this discussion. Thank you.

That will be really useful! cool

Beautiful things for babies. I love to buy beutiful things to my grand children

Marking my calendar! Thanks, Vanessa!

Thank you so much!!!!!

THANK YOU! Wonderful communciation, looking forward to this. (and how thrilling to see our upcycled gnomes featured - thank you!!)

what a serene way to start my day....that gorgeous baby face!!!!!! :)

This is great! I don't think I'll make it home in time for the real deal, but hopefully I can catch the recording! Thank you :)

looking forward to this virual

I hope to make it there. I do not make children's products but as a Mom do sometimes see products that concern me.

This is great! I'd like to know... since our economy is not solid, and unemployment is at an all time high, how requiring small businesses to get expensive testing on every component of an item, even if that item's components have already been tested by the manufacturer, is going to help? I understand there needs to be safety regulations in place, however it seems the huge percentage of lead and other problems on children's items are from IMPORTED goods. I'm wondering if it has ever been brought up before the legislature that the SAFEST items in the US are those handmade by small businesses, many of the owners parents themselves. I would also like to know where funding will be coming from to enforce the law? How will it be determined who of the thousands, maybe millions, of entrepreneurs will have their business checked for compliance? Thank you.

Do I really need to spend hundreds to thousands of dollars to sell a pair of pony tail holders made using metal buttons (no, they're not completely enclosed) for a few bucks? Why am I as a sole proprietor subjected to the same standards as a transnational corporation?

Thank you!!!!!!

I would like to know if testing can be done at a higher level - i.e the fabric manufacturer - it seems to make no sense for a small individual crafter to have to test the same bolt of fabric repeatedly when using the fabric in different size or style items - we should be able to purchase our materials that have already been certified lead free - let the larger businesses, not the handcrafters absorb the cost of testing

thats amazing! although one would expect for toys to be safe coming from Etsy, which is a socially responsible site... great article

By the way, I have gone so far as to make an adult version of one of my items because I can't afford CSPIA compliance. If there's a way to sell these as a childrens item, I'd prefer it. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42124883

this is great!

I hope I don't forget to "tune in". This has become a major challenge for us home-crafters. I agree with BettysCloset, and many others have voiced similar outrage. The major manufacturers who sell the raw materials we use and buy in big box stores and craft stores to make our homemade things shouldn't be making ANYTHING that is toxic or lead-based. It's those tainted raw materials (buttons, zippers, fabric, laundry pens, hobby paints, ect) that shouldn't even be sold in the stores to begin with. THEY should be required to have their products tested and provide certification, so that when I go to the craft store to buy some acrylic paint or the fabric store to buy a snap or button, it should say "not for use on children's items via the CPSC" or "certified SAFE by the CPSC for use on children's items". It's maddening, stressful, cost-prohibitive and killing the home-crafter who may be out of a job (thanks to the job market and economy), but they may be really talented at crafting. Wondering what is safe and what isn't and "I have to do WHAT?" and the paranoia that something you sell may hurt someone or you may be sued is out of control, and it allll starts with what is being imported into our country.

As with BettysCloset, if materials testing is to be done, I would prefer to see it happen at the manufacturer level, not at the mid-level or end-user. As it were, the current way this whole thing is set up tells me that something I buy at Michael's, Wal-Mart, AC Moore, or Fire Mountain Gems (naming just a few examples) is not guaranteed to comply with CPSIA rules. How would I be able to prove their materials products do or don't comply, without expending more money than I can afford on testing?

I hope the questions and answers are posted someplace after the fact. Not all of us can attend due to jobs and such. will they be? and where?

I wish the toy manufacturers had our children at heart when "testing" products for safety.

I love these questions!!! I do understand about buttons or small objects that are attached to a handmade product, but do you not take that same risk from the same items you purchase in stores? If that is the fact, then why, if we purchase the items that are intended to be used for infants, toddlers and children already tested why do people have to test them again, it makes no sense. I also agree strongly about the lead found in the products from China. I would love to hear their response.

Can we get clarification on 'dye' vs 'ink'? If fabric, dyed or undyed, is exempt from testing, but silkscreening a design on that fabric after manufacture is not exempt from testing, what if I paint/print my design on with 'dye'? Does that continue the exemption? And at what point will the raw goods manufacturer's written certification of their products as CPSIS compliant be acceptable as a pass-thru certification for those of us constructing one-of-a-kind children's clothing?

Really hoping Etsy can record this as I won't be able to attend at the time it's scheduled. I agree with all who wish for component testing by manufacturers of the fabric, snaps, buttons etc. What really doesn't make sense is that every single home crafter buying an identical package of buttons from the same company has to pay to have those same buttons tested, then retest if they go buy another package.

AWESOME cant wait! the cpsc is always on my mind when I sew! I hope this puts some of my worries to rest. Thanks for putting this together!

Very interesting topic. I marked my calendar.

I need to be in on this, but probably won't be able to since my 'day job' will interfere. Hope this gets recorded!

Yay!! I hope I remember the date.

I am completely ignorant on this topic and look forward to the lab. I create hair accessories although not specifically for small children or babies. I would like to know what rules/if any am I to follow when I purchase existing supplies such as hair clips or ribbons, and fabrics from major manufacturers?

Leave any questions you have for Jay and Gib in the comments below. That will help us decide which topics will be most useful for you. ******************************* Yes, are children's clothing,toys,books etc, made before 1990 effected by this?

Ironically, my fabric is CPSIA-compliant, but now I need to add 2 labels (the FTC label also) and be sure the label material and ink are also complaint. This extra step is not cost-effective. I'm trying to offer high-quality products to discriminating parents, but my costs skyrocketed because of the CPSIA. I don't want to pass these costs on to the buyers. I see this assault on independent craftspeople as totally misdirected. I also believe that in the handmade industry, parents are able to control what they buy much more effectively than what they purchase in box stores. They know the source (the crafter), can ask questions and make the decision themselves whether the item is safe for their children. It gives both the crafter and the consumer control. Don't you agree? Thanks for giving us this opportunity!

Have to be there!!! This is great!!!

Great information. Adorable items here too!

What I would like answered is can the CPSC give a more concise set of definitions or a lexicon of what they mean by certain terms. *Example 1 So where exactly will the line be drawn as to what is considered a child's item. Will it be industry recognised sizing charts like size 16 is the max that clothing needs to be tested upto, do hats above size 6-1/4 qualify as a general use item, or any necklaces below 16" long or any bracelet shorter than 7" will automactically be considered intended for children? The CPSC defines a child product as "A statement by the manufacturer about the intended use of the product, including a label on the product if such statement is reasonable. Whether the product is represented in its packaging, display, promotion or advertising as appropriate for use by children 12 years of age or younger. Whether the product is commonly recognized by consumers as being intended for use by a child 12 years of age or younger. The Age Determination Guidelines issued by the Commission staff in September 2002, and any successor to such guidelines." But when you read all 313 of the guideline just about any item that a child could use to play dress-up, mom's make-up, dad's hats, mom's jewelry, etc could be construed as a child's play item. ====== Example 2 For collectables, vintage, and antiques what will be the "bible" to determine between that and rummage sale goods. Will these type of item's need some sort of printed authenication that there is value as collectable like a write up in the Warman's or Summer's identification and value book or will it just be based on relative market value that a consumer is willing to pay? And if it is based on market value at what dollar point does something leave the realm of collectable and drop down to trift store goods? ===== Example 3 Terms like batch, lot, and production run means different things in different industries, then within those industries it could have different meanings for those doing various levels of production. When I worked with nursery furniture a lot could mean the 2 weeks period that a a assemble factory would product 1,000 units of a specific style of cribs was made with materials all from 1 mill and later finished with a specific stain or paint. Now that I work in jewelry a lot means all of the different items I could make using a set batch of raw materials regardless of how those items are combined. Say I have 103 blue beads, 1000 red beads, a 100ft of nylon coated steel wire, 480 crimps, and 100 clasps if I choose out of those materials I could make 42 - 20" necklaces, 30 - 36" necklaces, 50 - 7" bracelets, 50 - 11" anklets, or any combination of items until my supply is exhusted. So which definition does the CPSC recognize as being the correct example of a lot? ===== Example 4 At what point is something that is in the grey area like jewelry gets regulated to being specifically for children or still considered a general use item. Will it be such things as characterizations on the item, there are adults that like unicorns but there are more children that like unicorns than those adults; so if I make a necklace with an unicorn on it does that make it a child's item or will some other quality about the piece keep it as a general use item? Or will it be based solely on the marketing of the item, back to the unicorn necklace, if I never mention the item being used by children in my description or tags, and there is no visual suggestion in the pictures of the item is for a child will that product be consided a general use item regardless of who the customer purchases it for? Or lastly will it be based on the price of the piece like under $9.99 it's for children, over $10 it's for adults?

I just set up a reminder for this in my phone. I'm hoping to start selling clothes again soon!

I am encouraged by etsy's continual attempt to demystify tough issues that sellers face. I will make every effort to be there.

great questions JDBME ! thank you for all of your expertise on this

Here is my question... I quilt using fabrics which are rarely, if ever, labeled with the country of origin, but I purchase them ALL in the USA. How does one deal with this?

Thank you, Etsy, for hosting this seesion. I hope it will be productive and educational for all involved (Etsy sellers and the the CPSIA reps, as well).Don't know if I will be able to get off work in time to join in, but I'll try! Eileen...

Wonderful~ I hope to make it! I would love to know how this effects using vintage/upcycled items with no known origin and/or fiber content.

Perfect! Will tune in. Put my baby blanket making on hold because of this and stopped selling children's items too. Would love to hear the straight and narrow on this. Thanks so much!

It would be great to have a transcript of the Lab

I will not be able to attend but will look very forward to reading/hearing it at a later date. Thank you, this is SO important.

Thank you Etsy! I hope the officials will be able to clarify: for things that are not exempt, (such as snaps, buttons, and other fasteners) if buying from a manufacturer that has tested their products already, will the manufacturer's GCC be sufficient in all cases? For example, Dritz tests all their fasteners. I should be able to buy Dritz buttons and not have to test my final product, since all my materials have therefore been proven lead-free before manufacture.

I will be sure to mark the date down and hope to make it- i am curious what they have to say.

I will really appreciate if the session can be recorded for later views. I will not be able to join due to work! Thanks in advance!

Like some of the others, I'm sitting on my baby crafts until I get something concrete. If I'm using raw materials to create something else, I have no control over those raw items. The testing needs to come at that level to ensure I have an acceptable item to sell. If I have to be responsible for the testing, I won't do it and therefore, won't sell baby crafts and that's a crime! Please record for later, Thanks!!

I have a lil suggestion. I won't be able to the meeting. Would it be possible to maybe podcast the meeting? or youtube it? just a thought just thinking of the note takers. I can only imagine this being much needed info. thank you again!

Like so many others, I don't think I can make the session so please have a printable copy available! I have a lot of older fabrics with no way of knowing what their content is. To use or not to use? I also have a very large stash of fake fur bought in the 80's/90's. Most was purchased from American manufacturers, but at this point in time I have no idea which piece came from which manufacturer. Do I have to test each piece? I won't be able to afford to do this so no more childens furry stuffies! What about finishes for wood? If the paint, varnish ect. says it is non-toxic on the label, is that enough? If it was made in the USA, it should not have lead in it anyway! Please record this session.

I really hope the session is recorded!

For those of us that can't make it I would love to reiterate: I would like a transcription of events! Question 1: Can we have some clarification on component testing. Is it likely that in 02/2011 we will be able to continue to use components that have been tested by the manufacturer as long as they are unaltered? Question 2: Some clarification about labeling w/ FTC. Many major companies are combining labels however, legislation seems to point to the need for two separate labels. Which is correct? Question 3: I believe someone else mentioned this: More clarification on batch, lot, etc... How does OOAK fit into this labeling process?

I am hoping to start selling baby items in the coming months and am very interested in this session.

What I would really like to know is why American home handcrafters are being penalized for problems caused by mass-production sweatshop factories in southeast Asia or other Third World regions? THERE is where toys with lead paint come from, not from "Grandma's Garret" (or other hypothetical home toy crafter).

As a vintage seller I am careful to note that children's toys from past decades were not manufactured with the same production standards in place today and therefore sell older toys as collectibles. How will this practice be impacted by new regulations?

I've just come into this topic (probably because I'm in Australia) and am just as confused as everyone else. I can find very little information for international sellers that might occasionally sell to a buyer in the US and aren't technically an 'importer'. Does every maker of kids handmade in the world have to comply with this. It's hard enough figuring out our own legislation!!

I too hope this will be recorded. 5pm EST leaves a lot of us on the West Coast (well, anyone not on the East Coast) that work full time, unable to participate. Wish it could be at a more friendly time for everyone. Look forward to reading the discussions.

Will the CPSC be planning to continue to allow component testing, in other words, will we be allowed to use suppliers testing results to meet the requriements of the CPSIA? I do very small batches of items, some of them just one custom item at a time. I cannot test each item, but can use supplier testing results. I cannot work a 9-5 job, but this is something that I can do to help support myself.

Looking forward to this. Lots of great questions listed.

This law not only affects business owners but also any crafter who simply want to DONATE (NOT sell) child's item to charity that they made. I have a few questions to ask as a mom of a daughter who wants to make a few toys for charity. We do not plan to sell any toys we make. I simply want to share a hobby with my daughter and teach her charitable giving. I recently emailed Info@cpsc.gov to get an answer to some questions about labeling and I could not get a straight answer from anyone at CPSC. Instead, I got sent a bunch of documents (which did not answer my questions) and then finally, passed off to the Small Business Ombudsman because the person who was trying to help me didn't want to "unintentionally mislead [me] in some way" by telling me in their own words how I am to label products. If someone who works for CPSC can't give me a straight answer, then how on earth is anyone else supposed to? Although CPSIA says that anyone making something for charity is a manufacturer, it does not mean they own a business. For example: What is the nice "grandma" type crafter who makes a couple of baby blankets for the local church fundraiser every year supposed to put on a label? What if she doesn't want to give out her home address and/or phone number? I would like to get more clarification for crafters making items for charity. 1. Can we make up a name for the toys we make? 2. Can I use an email address for the contact info so that I don't have to give out personal info like a home address or phone number? 3. Is there any info available specifically for crafters making charitable donations that do NOT have a business?

Marking. Thanx!

Really useful...

I will be marking my calendar. Still new and this will be very valuable information.

I plan to be there.

I am really looking forward to it. The CPSIA laws are always on my mind when I am making a new item and I hope this Chat will bring some clarification to them. Thanks!

Question: As a OOAK clothing designer, I buy my buttons, snaps, zippers on cards from local fabric stores as do many other small handcrafters. I can buy the same buttons to use on a blouse for myself, or my daughter, or to apply to a garment to sell. How can one possibly, simply by sewing said button on the back of a size 2 dress which can't even be reached by a child, change it in a manner that would make it hazardous to a child and need to be tested, yet the same button on my blouse, that the child could touch and even touch with their mouth be safe and not need testing? If we are really concerned for the safety of components in use by consumers, why are the original manufacturers of the components not responsible for testing. The cost could easily be passed on to the end users. But the redundancy in testing is only a boon to the testing labs, and is I feel intentionaly putting micro businesses out of business. And does the CPSC really believe that the minute amount of metal on the stops of an ordinary zipper, readily purchased at the local fabric store, pose a deadly health hazard to a child?

Hopefully this will clear up some of the gray areas so I can know how to forge ahead with my business.

Praise God! I really want to be sure I understand the requirements for kids' products. I can't thank Etsy and CPSIA enough for doing this!

Will be there; hope there's room in the labs.

Hope to make the session as I'm hoping to open a new store selling baby quilts and soft toys. I'm confused as everyone else, but I do have a question, what requirements do you have to meet with regards to the fill for toys, quilt batting and pillow forms. Are there special requirements?

Thank you for doing this. I hope this will clear up some things for all of us.

would also love to hear more regarding choking hazards...and like others, would love to be able to refer back to this meeting in case I can't tune in live! thanks oh, so much!

My question: Is there a good resource or do they plan to make a resource to help educate artists about CPSIA, something like "CPSIA for Dummies"? I have found a huge variety of resources online, but a lot of conflicting and confusing information.

This is very interesting information. Thanks!

From what I understand resale stores and crafters are not required to test their products as long as you use lead free beads, buttons, zippers, etc. It is doable if you do research and try to be careful about what you purchase for your supplies. As some other posts mentioned I would love to know how to tag one-of-a-kind items. I use a lot of recycled and vintage/antique fabrics. What are the regulations on that? Thank you for covering this important issue. As parents we all know that safety comes first! I also hope these new regulations will improve the quality of imported products reducing recalls that take place after your child has been using an item for months.

Another thing, but not so much a question but a suggestion. When referencing regulations beyond the basic scope of the CPSIA on the CPSIA website please provide a direct link to the specific law or regulation mentioned rather than a notice number that only gives the broadest idea of what the it is about. Example : Don't just mention the notice number about the about childrens lounge and sleepwear flammability act give a link to the direct regulation where all parts of that mandate is spelled out that in a way that a mom or dad could understand. Because that's what most of us crafters are.

Mama K will definitely be attending. I've spent hundreds of dollars and countless hours biting my fingernails over this!

Beautiful

Marking the calendar! This will (hopefully) be very helpful for us.

I can't wait for this! I crochet, and used to have baby blankets and small children's items in my shop. But I use buttons on my items and couldn't understand all of the different rules/guidelines. I look forward to finally being able to understand! P.S. Please have a visual of what the tags are suppose to look like, and tell us EXACTLY what is suppose to be on them! Thank you...And if you gave us a link to where we can get these items, that would be very helpful too!

I guess I'm less concerned with hearing about how compliance with CSPIA is "possible" and more about whether it is probable. Probable, that is, for someone with limited financial means, and who lacks a team of attorneys and a support staff.

I hand-make a newborn poser for photographers. It consists of a foam shell (which I buy from a foam store) and a fabric cover. Is this a product that has to be labeled? It is marketed to photographers to use for a brief period of time only for the sole purpose of photography. If so, does the foam and the fabric need to be treated separately and labeled separately?

This will be a very interesting discussion. I want to know if the legislators who are responsible for these regulations are going to take into account the public response. If they see that these regulations present an undue hardship to small American businesses, will they consider some of our suggestions in revising these regulations, such as requiring the manufacturers of the various dressmaker and crafting components to test their products before retail? And mandating testing for all imported notions? What about easing the label requirements for those who sell less than an established amount of items per year? How can a home dressmaker or charitable crafter be expected to produce detailed labels with origin of content for each item they produce? The cost of the labels alone could sometimes exceed the value of the item. It really is a poorly executed set of laws as it stands.

I agree with everyone else... *Let the big box retailers and manufacturers handle costs of testing - making me do this would put me out of business. If I go out of business, the need/want is still there. Somebody else who isn't compliant will just step in and take my place until they're caught. *pinkquartzminerals said "...it seems the huge percentage of lead and other problems on children's items are from IMPORTED goods. I'm wondering if it has ever been brought up before the legislature that the SAFEST items in the US are those handmade by small businesses, many of the owners parents themselves." - While I agree with this, and I make everything in my home by hand, most of the items I use ARE in fact imported to keep costs down (fabric, notions, hair clips, etc.). Everything is made in China - let's face it. Safety should be #1 on everyone's list. As a parent, it is on mine. But I also want quality unique items for my children an easy process for those who make those items. When you go to the store (Hobby Lobby, Wal-Mart for example), items should be labeled as CPSIA compliant or not. *Am I required to test individual components when my supplier already tests? *What is the deal on fabrics? I currently label all items with... - Business Name - Contact Information (email) - Fabric content (100% cotton) not including threads or other items as long as it is less than 15% of area. - Where the item was made (Town, State). - Where the fabric I use was made. I use the term "of imported fabric" because it almost always is imported and making custom tags is just too much work. Will this cover me? - General care instructions. - Date item was made (quarter/year). - Specific item number (tracked in a spreadsheet to match order numbers, in the event I find out my fabric was soaked in lead paint, I can recall those items). Thank you so much for the help! Would love this on YouTube or a link in email to let us know where to find it afterwards!

...and one more thing. These rules are hard to follow now, but putting them in place only ensures that we DEMAND safe items to be made for us from places overseas. Eventually we will weed out the items that aren't compliant and it won't be this hard!

Some of my shirts, for kids ages 4 and up, are printed with plastisol ink. My understanding is that the phthalates law doesn't apply to "wearing apparel" (that is, apparel not intended as sleepwear or a feeding aid for a child 3 or younger). Is this true?

Very intersting topic...

Great! Very interested in the topic.

Do giclee/inkjet prints have to be tested or not? These are not what I think of as posters as they are often framed, so the poster language that is floating around the forums is confusing. Seems like posters can be hung on the wall without framing.

I can't wait to hear what they say!!!!! Thanks for setting this up for us!

Looking forward to the information!

And what about photo props - they aren't really worn like regular accessories but under the photographer's and parent's watchful eyes.

Interested to know more about artwork for kids rooms...since it's not intended for children to "play with" or "handle." Do I need to worry about getting the artwork tested. Also, growth charts since they hang lower, closer to kids grasp.

I would like to know, if I am using supplies that are certified compliant by the manufacturer (ie plastic snaps), what do I need to do to show that my product is therefore compliant?

As a parent I always try to seek out unique, handmade, or European toys... why? As you all here know, because the quality and originally are so far beyond the Mattel, Hasbro and etc. Sadly, now the local independent toy stores in our area, directly related to this new wrecking ball set of laws, are no longer carrying the toys I like to buy. So not only does it hurt many artists here and small businesses but it hopelessly limits the consumer on their selection. Grrr.

I, too am at a loss for where to begin with all of this... If I make something for mom to care for baby with (such as a nursing cover, burpcloth, diaper pouch, or carseat canopy) does it need the same kind of testing? I mainly use cotton fabric, but does the Plastic Velcro need to be tested & if so, by who? (also what about buttons, elastic or ribbon as embellishments on such things?) Does this affect clothing made by me with cotton purchased directly from the manf.? Thanks for the information!

This is so frustrating. The law isn't clear, the people who are inforcing it don't understand it and the people who are explaining it can't give clear answers. I also have heard that the companies who caused the problems with cheap unsafe toys, are also the big deep pocketed supporters of the CPSIA. Assembling something from pre-made parts is different from actually weaving ribbon and fabric or molding clips or snaps yourself. Does this mean that some fabrics are not safe to make childrens clothes, but they are ok for adults? How would people know? The whole thing is ridiculous the way it is written. I'm looking forward to getting some clear answers.

Thanks, looking forward to it and will mark in my calendar!

Another 3 questions from me. 1) If we as crafters can get the test results, GCC, or other pertinent information from a component's manufacturers or supplier, keep that paperwork on file and linked to which of our products it was used in, but later one of those products is found to have lead or phthalate levels beyond what is allowed who is liable for the penalties? In all honestly for many crafters calling to find suppliers that do test and requesting those test results to be sent with the raw materials we use is all we can afford to do in the way of reasonable testing program. 2) I know many jewelry suppliers in their component catalogs describe that certain items they carry are lead free, lead safe, or conform to California's Proposition 65, but when asked to supply more detailed testing information as to how they know the item this they refuse to foward copies of the test reports or GCCs, or COCs. Is there a regulation within the CPSC or another government agency that if in a business to business situation if a wholeseller or supply company is stating this that they must be able to follow through and give the other business the detailed information on testing used to arrive at this determination that a component is lead free or lead safe or conform to California's Proposition 65? 3) Why are these supply manufactures allowed to skip getting something tested when they know that the purchaser of the item will most likely be using it to finish a product that will be used by a child? Many of suppliers state that their actual components is not intended for children thus they do not test under the CPSIA but their products just screams to a crafter put to it on a child's product. A cute bunny button may be used on an adult's clothing item but it is more likely to be bought to be placed on a child's piece of apparel or a charm that says "I'm the big sister" may appeal to a few adults but is more appropriate to be put on a child's bracelet.

My main question is...why should crafters test their items after they assemble them? In my opinion each item should be tested before they are SOLD...which means testing should fall to the manufacturer of the items. Then when I buy approved fabric, snaps, and such to make my outfit or toy it should already be complaint. I think we should concentrate on where all our issues came about in the first place...imported items! Plus in my opinion some of the issues should be the parent's responsibilities. EXAMPLE: a certain pair of shoes my son has were recalled because the "wheels" could be choking hazards if they came off while the child was chewing on them. WHY WOULD YOU LET YOUR CHILD CHEW ON THEIR SHOES!!!

No matter what level the testing is done, the cost will be passed onto the consumer (home crafter) which we will have to pass onto the buyers. I hate to be a frowny face but many of us will be put out of business. Very sad since our quality of work far passes the slave labor overseas. Plus what do we do with our unique ideas and designs. This is what keeps me happy and sane. What is happening to our most wonderful country? I have the same questions and concerns as many of you. I too hope there will be a printable copy available, since I will want to study it and post a copy in my private home store.

This is important to know! Thanks for the FYI.

how does someone correctly tag a reversible clothing item? Obviously it can't be seen without looking horrendous. Could you attach it with a couple stitches so that it is easily removable by the consumer. But then we have the problem of future consumers......fun stuff!

When a product should have a warning on the label, does it need to be included on the CPSIA label? I have an item that I think needs a warning but I am unsure which label it should be on, or if it should be on both.

Question: I'm was about to open my second shop on Etsy until this issue came up, now I'm sitting on product. These are handknit baby bibs that I've made using a yarn that is 50% cotton and 50% acrylic. Under the FTC page "Facts for Business" sub-title "Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts" it states: Fiber Content: If your product is covered by the Textile or Wool Act and Rules, it must be labeled to show the fiber content. The generic fiber names and percentages by weight of each constituent fiber must be listed in descending order of predominance. For example: 65% rayon 35% polyester I am currently using a yarn that if %50 cotton and 50% acrylic. I should state that I chose this yarn because it works best with the product I'm knitting. I wanted the acrylic to add some substance to the cotton. Can I continue to use this yarn, and if so, can you discuss the labelling issue, please. Can I simply indicate the composition of the yarn, i.e., 50% cotton, 50% acrylic? Also, what kind of label must I provide? Must the label be attached to the bib or can a tag attached to the bib stating, eg., 50% cotton, 50% acrylic, machine wash and dry, and my e-mail address as a contact suffice? As a Canadian, if I had to have testing done, where would I get this done? I will contact the yarn manufacturer on Monday and ask if their yarn is in compliance. If they say yes, is that sufficient for me. Do I just state that on the label? The websites I've looked at regarding compliance just seem to generate more and more questions. They're a nightmare to wade through with what appears to be conflicting information. Thank you. Pam

The purpose of a retail fabric/craft store is to sell to 'end users'--the mom sewing/crafting for her family. They are NOT wholesale distributers, and, even though a lot of crafters buy their supplies from them, the stores' marketing is aimed at the final consumer of the goods. THEREFORE, they should be able to supply CPSIA required labeling on all appropriate goods they sell to customers. How else is the mother making her child a new dress going to know it is 'safe'? If this means they have to require it on all the merchandise they buy from manufacturers or they don't buy it, then the manufacturers will have to start being responsible for their product testing, safety etc. Next time you are in a store getting supplies, tell management you need the CPSIA labels--they won't know if you are a crafter or end-user. We CAN push back! If we don't buy from them they go out of business too.

I make wood doll furniture. The doll furniture is either painted with lead free Sherwin Williams paint or stained/finished with lead free Minwax products. Must I have my doll furniture tested and certified lead free?

I already have this one in my calendar and 2 different reminders set up to remind me. I hope that I will get some clarification on labeling and batch numbers.

I am very much looking forward to this meeting. The things that I would like covered are: If the manufacturer states that an item is compliant, do we still have to have it tested or is the certificate enough? A little more detail about the labeling.

I have hand painted art for children--acrylic on canvas. They are not intended for play. What are the CSPIA regs in regard to this?

I really hope there will be a written transcript, PDF format of this session so we can all download it for reference. I make a number of items from recycled and/or vintage fabrics, buttons, grommets, zippers etc. Many do not have the fabric content or metal levels listed. Items which had no issues 20 to 75 years ago are now a problem. The manufacturer's of the raw materials should be the ones to certify the fabrics or components since it is the intent of the products to become a "finished good" The crafter should be allowed to rely on testing from the manufacturer. While none of my products are intended for children at this time and I have a statement in my shop policies how is a crafter to protect themselves should a baby or child touch a product, or if the parent themselves allows it? Children are always picking up things and sticking them in their mouths. Where does the law provide protection for the crafter that specifically states not for children? For example, hand stamped ribbons and gift tags a purchaser may opt to wrap a gift for a baby or child with it? Or embellished flower pins that a child may tug at while an adult is wearing it and manage to pull off a bead. Or a picture frame from recycled wood, or playing with mom's new handcrafted purse or diaper bag... How about that shell frame that a child may play with and knock a shell loose, or altered art that has all sorts of things that can be pulled off. Some finished goods are so small that in reading all these comments the label will be larger then the item! The idea of upcycling products seems destined to come to a literal halt at a time it is more important then ever to reduce waste. The focus should be on imported products. Thanks again.

I am hoping I will be home for the meeting even though I do not make childrens products. I think you said we could ask questions here too. My question is this: if there are items that are clearly not compliant (swarovski crystals or tiny parts all over infant/small child items for example) does Etsy have a responsibility to do something about it assuming they are aware of the products. As a mom these type things do concern me :)

I would also like some information about tagging reversible items. The ones I'm currently making have pockets and I believe that I can put the tags in the pockets as long as they are easy to get to but I'd like to know for sure.

newhopebeading - I don't have kids myself, but I know that when I buy for my nieces or friends' children, I'm always concerned about how the items are made and are they safe. And it's up to the adult to make these buying decisions both on and off of Etsy. The good thing about Etsy, as opposed to buying from a big-box store, is that you can convo the seller and ask questions. I talked this over with Sarah, our lawyer. Unfortunately, Etsy as a venue cannot guarantee any item's safety. When a seller signs up for Etsy and agrees to our terms of use, they are swearing that they are complying with the law, and the onus is on the seller. I want you to know that when Etsy is contacted by the CPSC, we comply. And that might mean removing items. The CPSC tells us what's problematic. We're simply not experts in knowing what violates and what does not. As you can see from the comments here, these regulations are complicated!

I would love to add some baby items to my shop's offerings, but am very intimidated by the requirements set out by the CPSIA. My main questions are: My baby blankets are made from fabric, so I believe they are exempt from lead testing, as long as I don't add any buttons or other trims to them. I'm confused about the type of labels to use for them, though. Can I create an iron-on graphic with my inkjet printer that meets the labeling requirements? Does the addition of the iron-on ruin my exemption from lead testing? What about phthalate testing? Do baby blankets need to do anything to guarantee that they don't carry phthalates? I've gotten conflicting answers to this question from other crafters. I love creating special items for babies and their nurseries, but this whole topic is just so complicated (at least to me). I'm hoping this even will clear everything up for me.

Great news- now we can find out what specifically the rules will be. Although, I have to admit I have a sick pain my belly on this. I buy all my fabric from fabric stores & internet (usa stores) and my girl clothes have 100% cotton, thread, elastic and an occassional button all which are purchased from usa stores that have already been tested. I bought my spring inventory ($1000) hope I am not going to be subject to horrific testing b/c if so this will hurt my Esty store which is my second income. :(

My question: I use metal buttons as a centerpiece to flowers on headbands. They are completely wrapped in fabric front and back. Does this make them exempt?

I have a few questions in regards to phthalates and testing... Is the exempt list the same as it is for lead or any toy or child care item made for those 12 and under, regardless of what it's made out of required to be tested for phthalates? Is a diaper changing pad considered a child care article since it technically doesn't facilitate the sleeping or feeding of kids 3 and under? It's all just a little vague. Also will they ever allow component testing? That would certainly make life a whole lot easier for us home crafters if we could just use the test results from our manufactures... most larger companies already test their products and retesting just seems silly and counter productive.

Soooo, when I go to the local fabric store I need to write down everthing on the end of the bolt and store that info to put on a tag? Who has time and energy? Parents and grandparents know what is safe and what isn't. The crafter is on the lookout for safety all the time in making products for children, why aren't the big companies with the items they buy from overseas? This is very confusing. I have fabric I bought from years ago does this mean I can't use it? What about the fab I bought before I knew about all this testing? Just throw it out? I hope you have a huge classroom for the lab. It is going to be crowded for sure!!

I will not be able to make it tonight, have to work. But I would love to understand a few things a little bit better: 1) Buttons, Zippers, Snaps and so on - what is OK and what is not. What kind of information do we, the crafters, need to have on hand in case something happens? (Went to JoAnn's today and found buttons shaped in hearts, animals and ice cream etc..(think the brand was JHB) all cute and in my eyes intended for children but on the back it says "Not intended for children under age 12". That must be illegal. It would be me putting not intended for children under age 12 on my baby dresses...) 2) Fabric; is it correct that 100% cotton and wool products, dyed or not dyed are not required to be tested? And what about the all the other materials Polyester is normally used in some fabrics as a blend? My children items are not all flowers, cute puppies, and hearts - I want to be able to use "adult" fabric too as it is part of how I design. Do I need to test those fabrics myself? 3) If I request and do receive a MSDS from any supplier and this states no lead - can I then assume that it is according to CPSIA standards? Or do they need a compliance certificate on each item? 4) Think the question was already asked but can I use "Made in USA with imported fabric/material" on my labels? And is it allowed to use a sharpie to fill out the blanks as far as a batch number and date when product was finished? (Want to make labels with Batch# _______ and Date________ )Or does it has to be made the proper way? I will use Bubble Jet set for all my labels but some might use Avery or similar. 5) Does every little thing on each item have to be in compliance; such as thread (cotton thread is not as strong as polyester), labels (and how they are made; some may want to use fray check and/or use their regular printer to make the labels), and then we come back to buttons, zippers, and different fabric materials... Think that was it. Thank you for doing this for us so we all can get our items out... as it is our passion!

This is great

Also like many others I will miss the lab so hope this will be in printable version. Very interesting and important for all of us =)

Are decorative objects (of whatever material) subject to the Act? Decorative objects such as lampshades, wall hangings, etc. that are intended as decor in a child's room - but are not intended to be used by the child. For example, screen printed wall hangings. They are intended as decor, not intended for that child to use. Does the mere presence of the paint in a child's room require that wall hanging to be tested? If not required to be tested, then is there still a requirement for a label stating that it's exempt under the Act? If decorative objects in a child's room fall within the scope of the Act, then how would ANYTHING in a home be exempt? Or anything in any public place, for that matter.

i hope that etsy artist and artists everywhere can find the information they need to keep creating childrens toys and accessories.

marking

Since phthalates are used as plasticizers to make things pliable, and testing is required on those items that faciltate sleeping or feeding, is everything that a baby uses for sleeping or feeding need to be tested EVEN if it made out of 100% cotton, like a cotton bib, or a cotton crib quilt? Commissioner Tennenbaum stated that phthalates are not found in fabrics except those coated like vinyls and chalk cloth, so do we or do we not have to test fabrics that would not contain phthalates? Testing labs tell us that we need to test everything for everything, after all they are paid by the test. I want to know from the CPSIA staff. And if we have to send a one of a kind quilt off for testing, then we have nothing to sell! And I just received a quilt kit, sponsered by Downey, for Quiltsforkids.org. Included was a label for me to fill out with only my first name. According to this law, I will be in violation if I don't attach a CPSIA label instead. Over 20,000 hand made quilts have been sent out by this non profit to hospitals for the NICU to use for preemies and for other children and to places like orphanages in Haiti. They know nothing about this law, and the law makes it criminal to provide these babies with these handmade quilts without the allowed tagging. Is this really what was intended in this law?

What about upcycled OOAK items. I made plushy toys with old clothing and sweaters, most are OOAK. Do I need to test each item or how do I label them? Do the labels need to be sewn into the toy/item or can it be a note card attached with a ribbon that would be removed by the buyer?

Surely the supplies should be tested before they even enter the country? Then only large manufacturers/importers would have the expense of the testing & everyone could be reasonably certain that the items they make out of legally purchased materials are safe. It seems extremely unfair to put the onus of testing onto small manufacterers or home crafters. It all seems extremely confusing, not to mention extremely badly timed as so many people rely on making their income from what are basically home made items & would have very little chance of finding a job if this income were denied them due to an over-zealous administration trying to shift the responsibility of child safety onto individuals.

I had a question. I want to know if kids craft foam you get at a hobby store is exempt and how about hot glue. If is isn't can I get the papers by contacting the company?

marking

Hopefully this session will answer some questions - I have completely backed off making my baby socks and bibs, and my fab fuzzy flip flops for girls - until I get better answers, I can't justify the expense of testing - and then what about compliant tags/labels to apply to said product?...

I can't tune in due to the time difference between the States and Oz however... could you please ensure that international sellers are discussed. We must abide by our own countries laws and are now being told by other sellers that we have to abide by US law. We need it sorted out once and for all with the truth. Thanks

For those of you who attended did you get the answers you were looking for? Is there still some question-marks? The CPSC is doing another webinar today at 11 EST www.cpsc.gov/webcast/index.html I wasn't able to attend yesterday but downloaded the powerpoint and is going over it - hoping I can be better prepared for the one today!

Glad to see the PDF is posted! :)

Adorable things!

Bummer, I missed it. Didn't check in often enough. Thank you for the PDF and PowerPoint files!

marking, thanks!

I missed it, I am sure it was a wealth of info. I will mark this in case any updates.:)