Search results (tags) for: "canada"

Etsy Finds: Out Of The Box

2009-12-26T11:20:00-05:00

Boxing Day, a holiday that falls on the day after Christmas, is recognized by millions across the world. Its origins may refer to the historic practice of giving a "Christmas box" to those less fortunate. These days, Boxing Day is known primarily for two things: acts of goodwill and shopping (one for you, one for me!). In fact, in Britain and the Commonwealth, Boxing Day is known for mega-sales similar to Black Friday or Cyber Monday in the United States.

Discover Etsy shops from the countries of Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Australia in today's Etsy Finds. Find more talent near or far using Etsy's Shop Local tool.

Leather stag silhouette

By louloudo, $17.

Mint 8 x 8 Print

By LolasRoom, $25.

LITTLE GRAY BIRD PIN

By Threekeys, $5.

Gold Tea Cup Necklace

By laurabailliedesigns, $20.

Puffed Heart Wall Art.

By metzypants, $25.

Eco Cushion with squid

By olofsdaughters, $30.

Watercolour 'Brussels Sprouts'.

By TheBotanicalConcept, $550.

owls notebook

By memohelen, $6.75.

Aqua Oceanic Earrings

By AREjewellery, $16.

little lou amigurumi teddy boy

By rosieok, $10.

Olive - orange necklace with flower

By astash, $60.

wild badgers silver cufflinks

By makeit, $32.

Mini Herringbone Pouch

By seabreezestudio, $15.

Apricot and Lemon Needlefelted

By feltmeupdesigns, $20.

Yellow Tote

By breagha, $120.

Moleskine Notebook

By siansburys, $9.

Blue Cuppy Cake Greeting Card

By pnkgeeni, $4.

Erick The Possum Puppet

By funkyslipper, $13.

Merino Hooded Vest

By SewKatiepie, $60.

KIWI KILT- WEARABLE ART WRAP

By mariansmale, $500.

Bronze rocket locket with ball chain

By jewelsvine, $83.

Felt food - Party food

By lisajhoney, $12.

Lightning bolt necklace

By CupcakesAndMace, $14.

Eco Tandem Bike - SAVE THE DATE

By missprintdesign, $2.

Fabric Baby Shoes Embroidered

By BinkyBlossom, $22.

Fern necklace - victorian

By blackswandesigns, $28.

Pure wool pixie hat

By teatodtoad, $15.

Lucretia - Kimono Silk Scarf

By tutus2, $40.

interactive magnetic wallscape

By hjrdDesign, $52.

There are answers in these ....

By sleepandhersisters, $25.

What's New Computer greeting card

By katydidpapergoods, $3.50.

black velvet clutch

By hopeandanchor, $25.

Green and white teacup brooch

By Toast, $10.

SALE BIg Bow Tee Shirt

By papercup, $25.

Bambina Vessels

By Popkraft, $26.

Luxury Sweetpea Soft Fur Hat

By gottahavebaby, $17.50.

Pink Bear iPod / iPhone / iTouch

By SydneyAngel, $25.

Anatomical heart pendant

By WendyJNZ, $20.

GIRLS LINEN PINAFORE buttercup

By pamelatang, $58.

White Hope Heart Decoration II

By melaniejanebooks, $3.50.

Woodgrain Sparrow Pin - Mini

By annarubyking, $10.

Lace Applique Bridal Headband

By GlistenDesigns, $80.

OWL PAL Softie Kit and Pattern

By winkhandmade, $12.

Amour Necklace

By ourteaparty, $12.

First Hammer (Baby Rattle)

By fede, $20.

Pink on Beige Brooch

By InTheBellyButton, $25.

Hey There Elephant Necklace

By alicewearsgold, $19.

Alphabet Clutch

By pocketcarnival, $40.

My Home Organic Cosmetics Case

By LittleMaryMoo, $18.

Lovely Bubbly mini silkscreen print

By alyoisiusspyker, $25.

Victoire Giant Silk Bow

By HopelesslyDevoted, $40.

Bird Leg Monster Postcard

By benconservato, $4.

snowdrop - sterling silver earrings

By finchbird, $168.

Lover Card

By ableandgame, $4.

Vintage 60s Buttoneer

By RoomForCake, $22.

TAREK....a scarf

By Fluur, $105.

SUPAYANA tea time dress

By supayana, $72.

matryoshka dolls set OOAK

By SewnNatural, $115.

Large Rusty Country Bells

By TheSnowshoeLoft, $8.

Upcycled brown leather purse

By hoakonhelga, $105.

Hugo Hedgehog Rubber stamp

By Corrabelle, $6.

Triangle

By 3dots, $38.

Ostrich Leather Green Clutch

By ekaa, $55.

Letterpress Newborn Baby Card

By sweetbeets, $5.

Molly Magenta TShirt

By janeyclothing, $45.

woodgrain laptop decal

By beepart, $10.

Amethyst Crystal Specimen

By elseetee2, $80.

Mini Monkey Flap Hat

By citefuzz, $28.

Eco Cup Cozy - Red Scooter

By laurabucci, $12.

1 1/2 Inch Hammered Cuff

By cgwhitfield, $77.

NECKLACE AND EARRINGS SET

By ZhivanaDesigns, $42.

The Engagement print

By meluseena, $25.

Brown corduroy pouch

By mehran, $20.

Fused glass pendant necklace

By ellecools, $25.

Black Leather Knot Belt

By elizabethkelly, $30.

Birch Trees Eco Felt Cushion

By sarahsmilecreations, $33.

Crazy Quilt Cushion

By homespunireland, $35.

Spring Lamb Irish Hat

By LoveLambie, $35.

Blue Faced Leicester Wool

By LHogan, $17.

Red Sherbet Cowl

By HuggleKnits, $40.

Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Gift Guides | Guest Curators | Trends | Gift Ideas

Need a daily fix of Etsy Finds? Sign up for the Etsy Finds e-mail! Conveniently delivered to your inbox!

Wham, Pow, It's Boxing Day!

2009-12-26T02:43:00-05:00

"In this corner, weighing in at 157 pounds...." Ok, so here in the U.S. we don't really know much about Boxing Day but we do realize that it doesn't have anything to do with pugilism! A little research on the topic unearths quite a bit of interesting — if not completely consistent — information about the origins and meaning of Boxing Day, which occurs on the day after Christmas.

One site states that Boxing Day started in England in the Middle Ages and that the holiday was created because servants were required to work on Christmas but had the following day off. As they prepared to return to their families, their employers would present them with gifts (presumably in boxes!).

Another source reports that Boxing Day is when people give gifts, bonuses, donations or items to others, often those less fortunate. For centuries, a Christmas box was an earthenware box, introduced by the Romans, used to collect donations, either as tips at a business or as donations for the poor. These "boxes" were smashed the day after Christmas and the funds were distributed, hence the name Boxing Day. Check out this painstakingly reproduced money box by UK ceramic artist — and I'm assuming history buff — MattGrimmitt.

"This one has a flowering plant of sorts along the lines of many I have looked at on old Devon Harvest jugs of the 17-19th century."

Today, Boxing Day is a public holiday celebrated in Great Britain, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, as well as many British commonwealths. In the holiday spirit of giving, many popular stores in these areas open early and offer big discounts on all the "boxes" that have not yet been sold. In the Western Church, December 26 is also recognized as St. Stephen's Day or the Feast of St. Stephen — a patron of widows and the poor.

No matter the historic origins, or the more recent incarnations, it seems like what's most important is a spirit of charity shared by all. Happy Boxing Day to everyone around the world!

Read another Boxing Day post or more Etsy International posts.

The Collectors: Jelene's Nutcracker Suite

2009-12-22T16:36:00-05:00

Woowee! This is such a magical time of the year: beautiful music, gorgeous festive colors, and a little fairy dust that seems to dance in the air everywhere we go. How grand!

For me, one of the most nostalgically captivating scenes of the year shines bright on the stages around the world as Tchaikovsky’s ballet, The Nutcracker Suite, thrills children of all ages. This whimsical fairytale, where toys come alive and vivid color swirls all around, tells the story of a world filled with whimsy, festive fashions, and something glorious to capture the imagination of every child.

So here’s the perfect collection for such a magical world. Hope you’ll love Jelene’s festive nutcrackers!

Who (are you) : My name is Jelene Morris — my Etsy shop is jelene.etsy.com

What (are you collecting) : Nutcrackers

When (did you start) : I started collecting nutcrackers when I was a teenager.

How (many do you have?) : I have 25 of them so far.

Where (do you find them) : I collect them from all over. I have some from Germany, some my family and friends have given me.

Where (do you keep them) : I keep them in my doll case, but during Christmas, I have them out on display for everyone to see them.

What (‘s a crazy/interesting story behind one) : I became fascinated with nutcrackers when I first saw the play The Nutcracker at age 11. I wanted one for Christmas, but they were really expensive… so unfortunately I didn't get one that year. I think during that time, most of them were around $150 or more. Since they have become more popular with Christmas, now they are easier to find.

What (piece would you like to add): I've seen some nutcrackers that have costumes, or ones that look like chefs. Those would be fun to have.

Why (do you love them) : I've just always loved them ever since I saw them as a child. I think of them as dolls, but just in wooden form. Some of them are really detailed. I think it's funny how originally they were for cracking nuts, but now they are just mainly for decoration.

Which (one is your favourite) and why : My favorite one is the smallest one I have. It's about a 1/2" inch tall. I just love it so; it's so incredibly small.

What (else do you collect) : I also have tons of dolls that I've been collecting since I was a kid. I also love art toys and vintage toys.

How fun! Thanks so much, Jelene.

Continue delighting your senses this season with a visit to Jelene’s bright and beautiful studio, where her pop art playground-of-a-shop is a wonderland for every age. Her fun and festive designs are just the thing for the young-at-heart and sugar-plum fairies this season!

Happy Holidays, nicies!
And may all of your festive dreams come true!

What do you collect? I’d love to hear! Please post in the comments below!

The Collectors Series | Etsy Nutcrackers | More Collections Posts on Rikrak's Blog

Etsy Finds: A Capital Idea

2009-12-17T12:27:00-05:00

With holiday shopping days rapidly dwindling, shopping locally may be your best bet for finding a gift in time. You'd be surprised to discover how many Etsy sellers live right in your own neighborhood. You'll find 44 shops in Abilene, Texas, 28 up in Fairbanks, Alaska, 27 in Thessaloniki, Greece, and even one shop somewhere in Botswana.

For this month's edition of Etsy Finds: Shop Local, I chose shops from five different world capitals. Try out your own Shop Local search and see if you can find an undiscovered shop around the block or across the world.

Ottawa, Canada

Made to Order Girl's Dress

By SewnNatural, $65.

View Item | View Shop

Fuzzy Gaiters

By KBergmans, $45.

View Item | View Shop

Knee Length Ruffled Wrap Skirt

By econica, $65.

View Item | View Shop

censored necklace- blue

By shimmerypeach, $29.

View Item | View Shop

Mellow Yellow Ski Jacket

From 19vintageclothing, $45.

View Item | View Shop

Red Tetris Dangle Earrings

By reddhynes, $6.

View Item | View Shop

Cute Penguin Hat

By TheBackyardGazebo, $15.

View Item | View Shop

explosion cuff

By 3rdlife, $11.

View Item | View Shop

Manila, Philippines

ICE CREAM CAKE

By thequaintbrew, $18.

View Item | View Shop

Mrs Fat Lady Dress

By ohmplayground, $90.

View Item | View Shop

Teal Vintage Style Rose Necklace

By Beadix, $8.50.

View Item | View Shop

Muchas Gracias Thank You Cards

By cosmicsurflove, $8.50.

View Item | View Shop

Budapest, Hungary

Shepherd of Hermas - Holidays Sale

By brebird, $75.

View Item | View Shop

Turquoise Ring

By Fordos, $92.

View Item | View Shop

rukkola tied up pillow case

By rukkola, $39.

View Item | View Shop

ERNO the nude guy

By Mazsu, $21.

View Item | View Shop

OOAK Art Doll Cameo Choker

By moniee, $65.

View Item | View Shop

THE Plum FLOWER FARRAGO BAG

By farragobags, $198.

View Item | View Shop

Recycled Bottle Cap Earrings

By vanegyadri, $6.50.

View Item | View Shop

Blue cycling cap with flower pattern

By 2kerek, $20.

View Item | View Shop

Copenhagen, Denmark

Hot Pink Heart Handbag

By PunkUpBettie, $25.

View Item | View Shop

Sterling silver rockstar earrings

By SigneNjustJewellery, $189.

View Item | View Shop

Viking Hoodie

By Rasmilla, $9.

View Item | View Shop

80s granny ankle boots

From whyteboots, $52.

View Item | View Shop

Wedding Invitation

By paperlush, $7.

View Item | View Shop

Bicycle inner tube notebook.

By palepink, $32.

View Item | View Shop

Bunny Wabbird - Framed.

By iamfigurine, $55.

View Item | View Shop

Christmas paper hearts DIY kit

By pingvina, $8.

View Item | View Shop

Washington, D.C., USA

Herban Lifestyle Man Facial Soap

By herbanlifestyle, $7.

View Item | View Shop

Ktog 16 . Knit Together

By shoofly, $520.

View Item | View Shop

Rhino Extra Long Necklace

By itsastitch, $28.

View Item | View Shop

80s ARGYLE turtleneck SWEATER

From espanolita, $24.

View Item | View Shop

Obama Vs. Zombies Duct Tape Wallet

By tinaseamonster, $10.

View Item | View Shop

Grandma Klump Denture Soap

By thesoapseduction, $4.

View Item | View Shop

Black and Gold Striped 80s Sweater

From myrtledovelove, $38.

View Item | View Shop

New York Love gocco art print

By artsharkdesigns, $15.

View Item | View Shop

Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Gift Guides | Guest Curators | Trends | Gift Ideas

Need a daily fix of Etsy Finds? Sign up for the Etsy Finds e-mail! Conveniently delivered to your inbox!

Guest Curator: UPPERCASE

2009-12-02T16:38:00-05:00

Janine Vangool's love of paper, books and the handmade began in her childhood, when she would write and draw little booklets and ask her family members to sign them out of a portable cardboard library. Quite a few years later, following a career designing print materials for arts and culture clients, Janine is pursuing her publishing passions through UPPERCASE, which is the name of her studio/gallery as well as the recently launched magazine.

UPPERCASE — a magazine for the creative and curious — celebrates illustration, design, craft, music, film, vintage and all varieties of creative inspiration. Many of the magazine's contributors (and subscribers) are part of the Etsy community.

Monsieur IV print

The inspirations for both content and imagery for UPPERCASE magazine have happened through connections on Etsy. When I was creating concepts for the launch issue, I came across Blanca Gomez's shop, blancucha, and fell in love with her witty and sweet retro illustration style. I am so grateful to Blanca for her generosity in sharing her art with us for the first issue: the success of the launch was due in large part to the appealing cover. $30.

THE Olivetti Valentine -- Stunning Design

I have an obsession with typewriters and my collection of lovely Royal Quiet Deluxes (1956) have become UPPERCASE's mascot of sorts. You will find images of typewriters and typewriter-inspired typography in every issue of the magazine! One of our regular contributors, Grace Light of PoeticHome, offers insightful writing and beautiful photography about living with vintage objects. In her Etsy shop, you can find beautiful writing machines and ribbon supplies to get you corresponding in old-fashioned style. $590.

Strelka The Space Dog print 5x7

Ryan Berkley of berkleyillustration is a talented illustrator who has a unique shop of animal portraits. Sensitively anthropomorphized in suits and dresses, the images are at once poignant, cute and proud. Ryan was the perfect illustrator for an article about the dogs of the Russian space program. Prints of Strelka and other noble beasts would be lovely additions to a child's room or not-so-formal study. $10.

mustache on a stick. the banker

The dynamic duo of Shauna and Stephen somethingshidinghere are a constant inspiration to me. Their creative collaboration knows no bounds! In our current issue, Shauna took out an ad space to write a special note to Stephen, a surprise gift that was part of their ongoing series on the Poppytalk blog, "I made this for you." $36.

Plum Perfect Bear- Eco Friendly Plush

Earlier this year, we had an exhibition in the gallery called "Stitch" that featured softies, embroidery and other needle and thread artwork. Etsy was a great source for curating the show, which is how I discovered Canadian seller stitchface and her cute kitties and bears. $28.

Tangerine Dream Photographic Print.

If I could magically transport myself anywhere in the world in an instant, it would be to San Francisco! Fortunately, prolific blogger and photographer Victoria Smith, a.k.a. sfgirlbybay, keeps us all in love with San Francisco with her Sunday in the City photographs. I'm honored that Victoria is one of our regular contributors: she interviews watercolor artist Geninne Zlatkis, a.k.a. geninne, in our current issue. $16.

San Francisco Letterpress Print

Speaking of San Francisco, I've coveted this labpartners letterpress print for a very long time. Sarah and Ryan are the talented couple who graciously let our readers take a glimpse at their illustration portfolio and new home studio in issue 3. $35.

Colclough

Closer to home, Calgary designer Paige Smith makes beautiful jewelry holders from orphaned vintage china. These holders really sum up the "frugal and fancy" aesthetic that I love: the art of taking a discarded object and repurposing it into something beautiful, useful and treasured. By paigesmithdesigns, $55.

Moneybag Pillow - Guam

Following in the frugal and fancy ethos but in a different decorating aesthetic are the pillows of chakrapennywhistle. Made from reused raw cotton money bags, the randomness of the typography and other markings is graphically compelling. $60.

Hand-printed Holiday Card -- Happiest of Holidays

I was introduced to Samantha Troy's work when she subscribed to the magazine. She and her husband sell handprinted designs in their shop, desTroy, where greeting cards range from simple to ornate, perfect for the festive season ahead. $3.75.

Oval Sculpture Pendant

Kari Woo, a.k.a. kariwoo, is co-owner of the contemporary jewelry gallery Influx, one of my neighbors here in Calgary. Her graphic silver pendants and earrings are beautifully crafted. $185.

PERPETUAL CALENDAR - RED

I'm researching perpetual calendars for the upcoming issue and I love the design that the fine gals of orangebeautiful have developed. It's a clever format that allows you to play with type every day! $28.

Live What You Love Letterpress Print in Light Blue

I purchased this letterpress print from Hijiri Shepherd, a.k.a. hijirik, one of our subscribers. For me, "Live What You Love" is a commemoration of an amazing year: financial risk and incredibly hard work are all worth it if you are true to yourself and your talents. It's an encouraging statement to have in the studio, a daily reminder to keep pursuing the dream. $12.50.

Make sure to check out UPPERCASE for more intrepid art, typography and talent.

Looking for past Guest Curators? Check out our archive!

Artistic Endeavors Series | Gifts for Art Lovers | Art Category

The Collectors: My Favourite Dress's Vintage Pyrex Bowls

2009-11-25T15:16:00-05:00

I just love seeing what folks are collecting. I guess I feel it tells us just a little bit about what inspires them, what they love, and what they choose to surround themselves with in their homes. Today, I'm delighted to present the next in an ongoing series here on The Storque: The Collectors. First published on my own little blog, the rikrak studio, it's 11 and a half quick questions with a wonderful artist on what they're collecting (apart from their art supplies!). Hope you'll just love this vintage kitchenware collection with the charming myfavouritedress.

Yum!

As our thoughts turn to the upcoming holidaying seasons around the world, our kitchens emerge as our handmaking studios and workshops, where we each combine tradition and creativity to handcraft scrumptious feasts and delicious delights to share with friends and loved ones!

Indeed, cooking and baking are, for me, a wonderful part of the delight of holidaying time, and I thought you might just love a peek at this particular gorgeous collection of vintage kitchenware, which would surely inspire any home chef, and host(ess) as we look forward to the season of entertaining.

Psst: And just in case you’re like me and love the idea of baking, cooking, and entertaining, but it isn’t quite your forte (let’s be honest – I’m a wonderful disaster in the kitchen!) — fear not! Help is near! How about some delectables by the pros!

Who (are you) : Claire of myfavouritedress

What (are you collecting) : pyrex

When (did you start) : This collection here is about 6 years old.

How (many do you have?) : I have around 30-40 here in Vancouver, and a whole lot more in storage at my dad's in Australia.

Where (do you find them) : I find them all at the thrift stores (or op shops) and church sales.

Where (do you keep them) : I keep them in the kitchen. They get used every day.

What (‘s a crazy/interesting story behind one) : I have a friend who often picks me up little things at the thrift store, and one time we were sitting at the kitchen table talking when she casually reaches into her handbag and pulls out a huge butterprint bowl in perfect condition, and hands it to me — "Oh, I found this for you," and keeps on with what she was saying. Like no big deal. She's actually given me some beautiful pyrex and Fire King over the years. She is awesome.

What (piece would you like to add): Dots. I have absolutely no dots. And I love them.

Why (do you love them) : They're beautiful and functional, and they obviously last a long time.

Which (one is your favourite) and why : This tiny little blue bowl that is quite old, but I love the shade of blue and how it has worn away at the top.

What (else do you collect) : I have a pretty ridiculous collection of kitchenware and fabric, but I'd say what I really collect would be records.

Oh, how wonderful! I love how Claire USES her collection in a functional and wonderful way on a daily basis! How splendid! And I adore the ways in which she craftily combines her love of sustainable living in her home and in her own beautiful handcrafted works, too!

So let’s raise a toast: to the kitschy kitchen and all that is created in it! I think my perfect kitchen is like that ideal holiday recipe: You start with tried and true main ingredients, add a handpicked pinch of vintage, a dash of modern, and a teaspoon of eclectic to make something all your own!

Thanks so much, Claire. And be sure to visit her lovely shop and fabulous blog, Just Me and My Dad (What a brilliant idea this one is: dual photos by Claire and her dad! Love it!) and her deservedly popular and inspiring Flickr photostream!

Cheers! And happy celebrating, nicies!

What do you collect? I’d love to hear! Please post in the comments below!

The Collectors Series | Vintage Pyrex | More Collections Posts on Rikrak's Blog

Seller How-To: Shipping

2009-11-25T10:15:00-05:00

On Etsy, shipping and fulfillment are handled by sellers individually. This leaves a lot of flexibility for a seller's shipping options — which means it also presents a lot of decisions! This post will give you an outline of the most important shipping issues to consider as well as some tips and links to more in-depth information. We've included relevant links for US, Canada, UK, and Australia, thanks to help from these sellers: PeculiarForest, estasketch, terrain, Dancingcircle, memake, magicjelly, fenrislorsrai, lamarquisedesanges and katsai. Soon, we hope to translate this post into other languages, including German and French.

General Shipping Information

Shipping as Customer Service
With the general population increasingly shopping online, buyers are looking for more in the way of customer service, expediency, and convenience. Sellers should come up with a plan for what types of shipping they offer, whether they offer express services, insurance, etc. Most of all, providing clear, friendly information will prevent any miscommunication — which can really put a damper on customer service. Along with the shipping costs outlined in the listing, many sellers put additional shipping details on their Shop Policies page, and link to that at the bottom of each listing.

Further Reading: Creating Policies That Work, Policy Overview in the Help section

Felt Watches by BraveMoonman

Calculating Rates

Depending on the shipping service you use, you may need to calculate weights. For example, US First Class Mail uses weights, while Priority Mail rates may depend on the type of box or envelope you send the item in.

So whip out your measuring tape, kitchen or shipping scale, or take note of the weight of your packages when you take them to the post office. Now that you know the weights and dimensions of the packages you offer, you can use your country's postal service shipping calculator to determine the domestic and international rates for the countries you want to ship to. You may decide to factor in the price of your shipping materials into your shipping cost.

Holiday Deadlines

The holiday rush can be a frantic time! Plan ahead with shipping deadlines. You may want to refer to these in your Shop Announcement as a courtesy to your holiday shoppers.

Etsy Shipping Profiles

Etsy Shipping Profiles are a way to save a specific set of shipping information, which you can then quickly apply to any item listing during the listing or editing process. Shipping Profiles work well if you have similar items that ship for the same costs. Determine your shipping costs for an item of a specific size, weight and shipping method, then create a Shipping Profile you can quickly add to your new listings for such items.

Further Reading: Find out how to set up your shipping profiles in our Help section here.
The difference between Regions Shipping and Country Specific Shipping.

Combined Shipping

Combined Shipping allows you to specify a special shipping cost in the event that a buyer checks out with multiple items from your shop at the same time.

Further Reading: Find out how to apply this option to your shipping settings in our Help section here.

Expedited Shipping

You may want to consider offering expedited shipping options. If you end up using these services a lot, you may even be eligible to a discount through your chosen carrier. Chances are, you'll get a customer who needs an item by a certain date, so do your research ahead of time.

I started off this post with a section on customer service, and I think it applies here. If you plan to offer express shipping, figure out how to make it as easy as possible for your buyer. Let them know up front how much additional services cost. Perhaps include some helpful text in your listings and Shop Announcement. Here's an example: "I also offer expedited shipping for an additional cost of $x.xx. If you would like this service, please write a note in the Message to Seller when you check out. I will send you an updated invoice from PayPal for the additional service."

Dancingcircle pointed out in this post that it's "easy to set up your own account through USPS, UPS or FedEx by visiting their websites. Make sure you clearly understand each carrier’s shipping time frames, if they include delivery confirmation, and where you will need to drop off packages or how to schedule a pick up. Don’t forget to check out their claims or lost package policies."

You can compare expedited services offered by the USPS here.
Terrain notes that Canada Post offers a variety of expedited shipping services, and "each parcel delivery type indicates whether or not it includes a) delivery confirmation, b) insurance up to $100, and c) supplemental insurance." Click here to check these out.
Sending Urgent Mail through UK Royal Post
estasketch details the shipping options for Australians, "Auspost offers express post for domestic, or express post and express courier services for international. Express post has quite reasonable rates and good shipping times considering how far away we are from everything! Express courier offers a few more services and faster, but also more expensive."
Express post for domestic
Info on express post international
Info on express courier international

Insurance

Insurance is to protect you, the seller. As noted earlier, shipping is an aspect of customer service, and in the event there is a shipping problem, you may face an unhappy customer and negative feedback on Etsy. Third-party services like PayPal offer protection policies for sellers if certain criteria are met in the event of a delivery dispute (more information on this here). Additionally, there may be local laws in your area that would place responsibility on the seller for a shipping problem. Consider purchasing insurance on big-ticket items, or adding a small amount to each item cost so that in the rare cases where packages get lost, you have a fund that can cover you (or include the price of insurance in your shipping price and let the buyer know you have done so in the item description).

You can find out the cost of insuring your package from your postal service. Some expedited services have certain insurance packages built in, so look into that before buying additional insurance.

USPS Insurance
Canada Post Insurance
Check the UK Royal Mail shipping services' details individually
Australian Insurance (Extra Cover)

Certificate of Mailing

If the buyer happens to claim they have not received their package, this proof of shipping is the key to clearing your name, should the buyer report this to PayPal. Ask for this service in person at the post office. Further, we encourage our sellers to keep detailed and accurate records of shipping, as our Support Team may ask you to provide proof of shipping in a non-delivery case on Etsy.

A Certificate of Mailing from USPS only cost $1.15 (at the time of this blog post).
Canada Post has a DCC, Delivery Confirmation Certificate. Terrain notes that "delivery confirmation is a part of Canada Post's electronic tracking system. PayPal will accept a Canada Post Tracking Number that shows delivery as proof of delivery. To get a refund from the post office for a lost or damaged item, you would present the receipt you obtained when you sent it, which also shows the tracking number. Proof of shipping for Small Packet, which doesn't include DCC, would be your receipt plus the copy of the customs form."
UK Royal Mail's Track and Trace. PeculiarForest points out, "If you have a tracked item (Special Delivery 9am, Special Delivery Next Day, Recorded Signed For, Airsure, International Recorded Signed For) you must take the item to your local Post Office to have it accepted. The Post Office will also provide a signature for your Certificate of Posting document.
Australian seller estasketch says, "To get any proof of mailing you'd need to use an express or registered services. Registered post prepaid satchels seem to be the most affordable way of do this for international packages currently. Delivery confirmation is available but only on parcels over a certain size, and only with insurance. Proof of mailing also comes included with all express post services. Registered post information for domestic mail here."

Further Reading: Proof of Shipping with SCAN by ThePaintedTiger

Tolkien Travel Case by Beesnetta

International Shipping

As of November 2009, 30% of transactions on Etsy are cross-border or involve both a non-US buyer and non-US seller. Part of the excitement of being on Etsy is shopping and selling across borders. Offering international shipping opens up your shop to the world. That said, sellers need to be comfortable with the ins and outs of shipping internationally if they are going to offer this service to their customers. It is easy to learn, and once you do, you will open up your shop to many more customers!

If you are selling to a lot of international buyers you might want to check out Endicia.com. This service allows you to print shipping labels online that integrate customs forms as well. Shipping internationally is much easier when you use Endicia.com. You enter all your customs information in an online form, and this information is printed out along with proper postage.

Further Reading: "How to use Shipping Profiles on Etsy" on Cute, Cuddly, and Cannibalistic, a blog by Etsy seller, fenrislorsrai.

Customs Forms

If you are shipping to another country, you'll need to include the proper customs documentation. Do not mark it a "gift" if you're mailing an item you've sold to a customer. Check with your country's postal service to find out exactly what forms you'll need to attach to your package. In general, filling out these forms thoroughly with information should actually prevent your package from getting held up in Customs.

Shipping internationally will go smoothly most of the time. Every so often a package can get stuck in customs. Make sure your customers are aware that you can't be responsible for these delays. It's nearly impossible to track a package once it leaves your country.

The buyer is responsible for any additional fees that may be charged at customs. You should add this to your Shop Policies page.

In the U.S. you'll need a green CN 22 customs form which you can pick up at the post office or order for free from USPS.com.
In Canada, refer to this link on the Canada Post website. Terrain adds, "For U.S. and International Xpresspost and Expedited parcel services, fill out the 'Customs Declaration' section of the shipping label. For U.S. Small Packet/Light Packet, CN22 Customs Label (white for SP, green for LP)."
PeculiarForest notes that for UK sellers, "Customs forms will need to be filled out at the post office if parcels are being sent outside of the European Union." Memake notes that you may also download a PDF form from the Royal Mail website here.
Australians need the green forms available from your post office for free.

Further Reading: Seller Tip from Katsai

Know What You Can Ship

Some items are prohibited or restricted to individual countries. Did you know you can't send platinum, gold, and silver or precious stones via USPS Express Mail International Australia? Magicjelly underscored that it is "absolutely imperative that non-Australian sellers know about customs restrictions on items being mailed into Australia. Here's a helpful page about what you can't mail to Australia. Also, some Australian buyers may not be aware of what they shouldn't buy from overseas sellers... Australia doesn't have a lot of the plant diseases and pests you have [in other parts of the world], so the Quarantine Dept is very vigilant."

USPS's Country Conditions
Search restrictions by country on the Canadian Post here and here.
UK Restricted and Prohibited Goods
Prohibited goods list on the Australian Post website

Pricing and Sales Considerations

If it costs you little to nothing to ship an additional item to a customer, think about offering free shipping for additional items. This can be an incentive for the customer to look through your shop and see if there is anything else she wants. You may even mention that you offer free shipping on additional items in your listing to entice her.

Free Shipping: Some sellers use free shipping as a promotion. If you plan to do so, first consider your profits and realize that for lower-priced items, this may not be cost effective. If you decide to do free shipping, you may consider using "free shipping" as a tag or otherwise call attention to it in your Shop Announcement and listing description. Really, free shipping is only effective as a promotion if the buyer is aware of it before she decides to make the purchase! You may also consider just using free shipping as an occasional promotion for your shop, or as a special benefit that you give to great or repeat customers, or for orders over a certain dollar amount.
Balancing Shipping Cost with Item Price: It can be challenging to try to find a good shipping cost for heavy yet relatively inexpensive items such as baked goods. If your shipping cost is very high or even higher relative to your item price, you might consider the following ideas: Add a bit to your item price to balance the shipping cost, research and find the least expensive method possible, encourage multiple sales in one order if you are using a flat-rate service that will not cost additional money to ship.

Packaging

Packaging presentation and managing your mailing station is a whole other topic, my friends! But here are a few tips:

Purchase and print some shipping services through PayPal.
SmartStamp in the UK offers printing postage self-services.
Terrain posted a how-to about shipping with Canada Post.

We have many more tips for you, so check out these links:

More Shipping Articles | Packaging Your Items

A great, big thank you goes out to these sellers for their help: PeculiarForest for the UK links, terrain for Canadian links, and as well as Dancingcircle, magicjelly and estasketch for the Australian links, memake, fenrislorsrai, and katsai for their contributions.

Lots to think about, we know! But once you've got your shipping practices and policies down, I'm sure you'll feel a weight lifted. Have a tip for shipping from your country? Let us know in the comments below.

Etsy Finds: Four Corners

2009-11-17T12:08:00-05:00

For this month's edition of Etsy Local Finds, I pulled up trusty Google Maps along with Etsy's Shop Local tool and picked out shops from six different cities on four different continents. Shop Local and other features like Colors, Pounce, Time Machine and Etsy's Gift Guides offer unique ways to explore the incredible array of Etsy shops across the globe.

Phoenix, Arizona

Dreamy Day Wedding Dress

By ouma, $1680.

View Item | View Shop

Trapezoid Raku Pendant

By MAKUstudio, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Custom Professional or Portrait Puppet

By staceyrebecca, $350.

View Item | View Shop

Bondage Bunny-Made To Order

By gothcupcake, $25.

View Item | View Shop

Hand Stamped Love Bookend

By JoshuaByOak, $38.

View Item | View Shop

Helvetica Book No. 10

By SeaLemon, $18.

View Item | View Shop

Holiday Hemp Pillow -Merry Xmas

By NestaHome, $23.

View Item | View Shop

Bella's Swarovski Crystal Ring

By bluembrownlee, $15.

View Item | View Sho

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Sterling silver/9K rose gold ring

By artisanlook, $148.

View Item | View Shop

Anemone Scarf - Charcoal and Purple

By saralagace, $80.

View Item | View Shop

large everyday spice kit

By purposedesign, $32.

View Item | View Shop

Sweet Owl pendant

By melaniefavreau, $38.

View Item | View Shop

Black Leather Love Cuff - Custom Fit

By LoveAtFirstBlush, $75.

View Item | View Shop

Secretary Skirt w/ Vintage Saree

By LesEnfantsSauvages, $90.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Hot Red Ruffle Lace Babydoll

From nerdburger, $21.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage ENZO ANGIOLINI Ankle Boots

From RegalVintage, $34.

View Item | View Shop

Milan, Italy

Green Olive Armour Capelet

By callmemimi, $98.

View Item | View Shop

Double Leaves

By alibli, $21.

View Item | View Shop

Secret Skirt in Chocolate Linen

By rephilosophy, $70.

View Item | View Shop

Stone Bib Statement Necklace

By giia, $98.

View Item | View Shop

Dublin, Ireland

BELLE RUST // free shipping

By Bellebas, $96.

View Item | View Shop

Dublin XV. aka Boland s Mills Ltd

By vlad, $100.

View Item | View Shop

TETRIS Gift Boxes (pack of seven)

By littlewhitedog, $15.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage 1960s Emerald Green Pea Coat

From wonderwardrobe, $79.

View Item | View Shop

Purple Cowl

By treasureonline, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Tea towel made specially for Christmas

By handmadebysima, $8.

View Item | View Shop

Irish Cherry Bomb - handmade bag

By Crafts2Cherish, $138.

View Item | View Shop

Unearthed Fossil Marble Necklace

By Balanced, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Cape Town, South Africa

Sebastian Rumbleton the Couchie

By MayBeMe, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Ducky (8x10) Fine Art Photo Print

By snapclicktripod, $20.

View Item | View Shop

Army Boot Christmas Stocking

By FreshPotatoes, $18.

View Item | View Shop

Wentworth Miller drawing

By SuzDaisy, $18.

View Item | View Shop

Auckland, New Zealand

Dumb and Ugly teacup duo

By trixiedelicious, $40.

View Item | View Shop

Hand Stitched Leather Wallet

By officeofminordetails, $35.

View Item | View Shop

Hooktastic Super Ted, Coming to a Wall

By luxfordst, $49.

View Item | View Shop

Genius Girl pure copper bracelet

By creativityjewellery, $95.

View Item | View Shop

Record Pillow The Clash - London Calling

By Toggle, $78.

View Item | View Shop

Chocolate Jacquard Cape

By WeddingSkulls, $68.

View Item | View Shop

Orange Wrap Dress with Pink Panel

By littlemonkeys, $64.

View Item | View Shop

4x6 Print - Honey Hiding

By nutandbee, $7.50.

View Item | View Shop

Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Gift Guides | Shop Local | Trends | Gift Ideas

Need a daily fix of Etsy Finds? Sign up for the Etsy Finds e-mail! Conveniently delivered to your inbox!

A Cornucopia of Well-Wishes to our Canadian Friends

2009-10-11T21:00:00-05:00

The second Monday in October is the traditional date of Thanksgiving Day in Canada. The holiday has roots in the European tradition of harvest festivals, and a common motif is a "cornucopia" or horn filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, the horn of plenty.

Unlike its sister to the South, Canada's Thanksgiving Day has nothing to do with Pilgrims or Plymouth Rock though it does celebrate a "new found land." An English Navigator named Martin Frobisher who was seeking a northern passage to Asia fell short of his destination but ended up settling in what is now Newfoundland. In 1578 he held a formal gathering to give thanks for his surviving his long journey and officially kicked off Thanksgiving in Canada as we know it today.

We at Etsy wish all of you in Canada, and around the world, a season of abundance!

Shop Local Canada | Find Fall Harvest Items

Check out our Canadian Teams:

Alberta
  Atlantic Provinces
  BritishColumbia
  Manitoba
  Ontario
  Quebec
  TransCanada

The Collectors: themefragrance's Birds

2009-09-29T12:39:00-05:00

What a wonderful time of year! Sunshiney warm afternoons, beloved sweater-weather evenings, and the vivid colors of summer transforming into those sumptuous autumn hues. For me, it’s nature at its loveliest!

This is also the time in the calendar when I look for ways to bring the outdoors indoors, something I know so many of us universally love about interior design. As we cozy up our homes and indoor spaces, this month’s gorgeous bird collection brings the joy of the vibrant woodlands and the spirit of natural history alive inside. Here’s a wonderful collection interview to inspire us.

Who (are you?): Elizabeth of themefragrance
What (are you collecting?): Bird objects  
When (did you start?): Five years ago
How (many do you have?): Lost count!
Where (do you find them?): Antique stores, gifts, Etsy.
Where (do you keep them?): I live in an old brick house in Brooklyn that has six mantelpieces, and I rotate all my collections on them. 
What (piece would you like to add?): Bird prints from Etsy shops (so far I’ve collected prints by geninne and mincingmockingbird) .
Why (do you love them?): You can't have too many! The variety keeps you going!  
Which (one is your favorite?): My lovebird, Buddha (the real one).
What (else do you collect): Antique doll parts, typography blocks, hands, old magazines, perfume bottles, postcards, children’s books.

Like the modern perfumer she is, I love the way Elizabeth’s collection so aptly mixes design and modern handicraft with the natural world. Aren’t the rich and variegated hues of these lovely birds just gorgeous atop the classic white mantles of her brick home? Elizabeth’s brilliant use of color and hand-picked historical elements brings nature indoors not only with her beloved bird collection, but also in her delightfully vibrant shop. Like the splashes of antique history in her collection, Elizabeth’s work builds on the traditional to craft fresh, modern perfumes with enticing organic scents. I just adore her integration of nature in her collections, both in her home and in her shop. Thanks so much for sharing with us, Elizabeth!

What do you collect? I’d love to hear! Please post in the comments below!
And have a most colorful, vivid day, nicies!

The Collectors Series | Vintage Birds | More Collections Posts on Rikrak's Blog

Quit Your Day Job: AkumuInk

2009-09-28T14:00:00-05:00

Dora and Joey of Akumulnk began their journey toward creative independence after a fruitful shopping spree. After much research and planning, they've been able to quit their day jobs to run their own t-shirt business. With a background in 3D animation, illustration and working for a children's publishing company, Joey enjoys the ability to utilize his skills while being his own boss. Dora applies the business skills she's currently learning in her degree program to the busy Akumulnk shop. Keep reading to find out why they claim blogging and excellent customer service are their best marketing tips, why music is an essential part of the work day, and how the Quit Your Day Job series played a part in their decision to pursue their dreams.

How did you originally get into the business of making things?
Dora: We came up with the idea of making our own t-shirt designs instantaneously, really. It happened on a day when we had just completed a major shopping spree. Without thinking, I asked Joey, "How about we start a t-shirt company of our own? You can draw the designs and I can take care of the business." I think it took two weeks for the idea to sink in and for us to take it seriously. Before jumping into purchasing the equipment and supplies, we did research on screen printing for two whole months, since neither of us had previous experience. It took us another several months to better our techniques before we finally launched our online store in February 2008 and opened our Etsy shop in March 2008.

Joey: I have always been drawing — since I was very young. I went to college to study illustration in Montreal and then went off to to study 3D animation in Toronto. I spent the last four years working as a 3D illustrator for a children's publishing company in Montreal. Being an artist is a huge part of who I am and how I make a living, so it was an obvious choice to start printing on t-shirts with Dora.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Dora: I'm still in college while working on Akumu Ink full time. It is tough, but when Joey quit his job two months ago I knew that Akumu Ink was heading somewhere and that it was possible for the company to get bigger and for us to be successful. Once I get my degree, I will work my future job around Akumu Ink.

Joey: When we first started, I really hoped we could just sell one shirt. I had dreams of leaving my day job and working for myself, but I had no idea that we could actually do it for real. It was only this last year that we saw the possibility of making this work as a full-time job. Even when I quit my actual job, my boss offered that I continue working 2-3 days a week and I highly considered it. It's so scary to leave a steady paycheck and to rely 100% on yourself to make your income.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
Joey: We had been running the company for about a year and a half before I could even consider leaving my job. It just got to a point where an hour of printing online orders every other night become 4-6 hours of work every night, aside from my 40 hours a week at work. We also sell at 3-day conventions, so it came to a point where I didn't have enough vacation and sick days to accommodate those events.

Before committing to quitting I had asked for an extra personal week off, which was dispersed throughout the summer, to be able to attend all the shows we were hoping to attend. I could have continued working and watch our company fail because of the lack of attention, or I could jump in and do something about it. It felt great to be able to give our company and our customers the attention they needed.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
Dora: We found that blogging about ourselves and our company has been a way we can keep our followers interested. Maintaining great customer service will always keep your customers coming back.

Joey: Having a good product and good communication with our customers is essential. Having our Etsy shop mentioned on blogs also helped.

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
Dora and Joey: We have been lucky in making good decisions so far. We may have made small mistakes here and there, but we haven't really done anything we couldn't retract from. Any promotion is a good promotion, even if we lose a bit of money. Since we're focusing on creating a company that will last, any promotion to get another fan, customer, or client is important. Don't be afraid to try new things, as long as they're logical and fit your company's market.

Walk us through your typical workday.
Dora: I wake up in the morning to check sales and relist Etsy items that sold. I go to school in the afternoons, but luckily there's wifi on campus so I can respond to customer and other business related emails during class lectures. When I get back from school I sew labels for the t-shirts that Joey printed that day and put "blood" (red paint) on our hang tags. Then I prepare envelopes with stamps and mark the addresses. We usually work well into the night getting things together.

Joey: Monday through Thursday I wake up around 9-10 a.m. to have breakfast. Then I look through my Etsy Conversations, emails, Facebook comments and Twitter updates. Then I drop Dora off at the train station. I screen print for a few hours a day (when there is a show coming up or if there are orders). It is very important for me to have music playing throughout the day; it's just one of those things you can do as your own boss that I felt was lacking when I worked for others. Either there was no music or there was lame Top 40 radio...

So back to describing my day: I prepare orders that need to go to the post office. Usually around 5 p.m. I pick up Dora at the train station and head over to the post office. It's great to beat the post office rush hour. We usually arrive minutes before the line starts. We know all of the post office clerks by name. We're always joking around with them. Then we come home and walk our dog, Tiny, and we talk about our days. Then we have dinner and it's back to work or we relax and watch a movie, depending on what needs to get done.

Fridays to Sundays we fly or drive to conventions locally or across North America. We spend all weekend selling shirts we've spent all week producing. This year we'll be attending a total of eleven shows, and next year we're looking at attending up to twenty shows, which would mean almost every second weekend we'll be at a show. Doing conventions can be very draining. I don't think this is a life for everyone.

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
Joey: I love that I don't have to sleep in my car during my lunch breaks because I'm so exhausted from working all night. I'm happy I don't have to have a coffee every morning to get me going and a Red Bull when I get home to keep me going. I love that when I have an idea I can stop working and go to my computer and work out my ideas. It's great to be able to wake up at 2 a.m. (if I'm not tired) and work on things without worrying that I'll be too tired for work the next day. Of course I miss the friendships I had at my old job — that, along with the paycheck, was the main reason it was so hard to leave it.

What's the hardest part about running your own business?
Dora: I find that bookkeeping is the hardest task to do, but it is necessary for tax reports every month.

Joey: Finding time to get things done. We're always coming up with new ideas, but we're only two people. Sometimes you can't even do everything on your checklist because there aren't enough hours in a day to get through them. The hardest part is that you always hope you're doing your best to give every part of your business the attention it deserves. If you seem away too long from the public they might think you've disappeared even though you're working hard in other areas of your business. It's important to always keep up to date.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
Dora: I would encourage myself to not doubt our products and to keep trying new venues where we can expose and sell our products. I would advise everyone else to not give up on your work.

Joey: This isn't for everyone. A lot of people need to go to a job in the morning and come home at 5 p.m. My best advice is to start small and grow from there. Be patient while doing the best you can.

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
Dora: We hope to increase the number of our Etsy sales by ten fold (*crosses fingers*).

Joey: We also plan to offer new designs and remove older ones, as well as adding new and different styles of items — all handmade, of course.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Dora and Joey: Running your own business is hard work. It takes a lot of sacrifice; we have put off get-togethers with friends and family time and time again. If waking up ready to work on your own ideas and products excites you and going to bed exhausted from working all day is something you look forward to, then work toward your goals. I would look forward to reading the Quit Your Day Job series every time it came out, and it was the main inspiration to work toward my goals. If you love what you do and work hard, you'll get there. It's a really great feeling to create things and have people around the world buy them and say they love what you do.

If you want to know more about us, feel free to follow our blog and become our fan on Facebook. Thanks for reading.

Thanks to Dora and Joey for sharing their story.

You can see some of Joey and Dora's beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.

Get the Look: Anne of Green Gables

2009-09-10T13:30:00-05:00

Growing up, Anne Shirley (remember, that's Anne with an "e") was my literary hero. Lost in her romantic imagination, and with tendencies for the verbose, Anne was just the kind of company I was seeking. These days, I find myself drawn back to Anne in new ways: namely, puffed sleeves, floral dresses, and carpet bags. These Edwardian and prairie finds are unapologetically feminine, sure to intrigue the Gilbert Blythe in your life. Try incorporating nostalgic elements into a modern ensemble to keep Anne's look fresh and, as she would say, "sublime."

Daphne Pinafore Dress

The pinafore was Anne's iconic look. This polka dot one by bettybridge is perfect for daydreaming in Sunday school. Out the window just might be a Lake of Shining Waters, full of splendid possibilities.

By bettybridge, $385.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Carpet Bag - Tapestry Tote

When Matthew Cuthbert shows up at the train station, expecting a boy from the orphanage, he's met by spunky Anne Shirley instead. Anne's carpetbag holds all of her "wordly goods," perhaps yours will just hold the essentials.

From fishlegs, $19.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Brown Pointy Toe Booties

These sweet booties would be perfect for traipsing through apple orchards, exploring the icy-cold spring, dancing over the wooded hill, and of course, stamping one's feet stubbornly when called skinny, ugly, freckled, and redheaded.

From nstylevintage, $41.

View Item | View Shop

Hand Dyed Silk Ribbons

When Gilbert tugs at one of Anne's long red braids and taunts, "Carrots! Carrots!", Anne is quick to crack her slate down on his head. Perhaps if she tied these pretty hand-dyed silk ribbons in her hair, she would be more confident in the color of her tresses.

By MaryNotMartha, $13.50.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage straw boater hat

Always with visions of ribbons and flowers, Anne picks fresh roses and buttercups to adorn her straw hat. I think she would find this one from misscedar lovely with or without the embellishment.

From misscedar, $39.

View Item | View Shop

Flower Garden Blouse - Vintage S

Anne dreams, prays, and pleads for puffed sleeves. Defy the plain and sober by adding some volume to your shoulders. I pair my puffed sleeves with high-waisted skirts for a contrast in silhouette.

From kirbyvintage, $29.

View Item | View Shop

Round Brass Locket

A gold-toned locket was all Anne needed for finery. I love the simplicity of roundabout's version; I would get one for me and one for my bosom friend.

By roundabout, $16.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Sweet Floral Half Apron

Having company over for tea? This floral apron will keep you tidy and proper. Just make sure to cover the plum pudding sauce. You wouldn't want to find a drowned mouse in there come morning.

From adVintagous, $18.

View Item | View Shop

Beautiful Gunne Sax Wedding Dress with Ruffles

Diana convinces Anne to wear the white organdy to the hotel concert. "It's so soft and frilly and clinging," she encourages. There are numerous Gunne Sax dresses in the Vintage Category that would certainly catch Gilbert's eye from across the room. The delicate lace, when layered, looks just divine.

From violetfolklore, $84.

View Item | View Shop

What literary characters influence your style? Share in the comments below!

Vintage Gift Guide | More Get the Look Posts | Prairie Vintage Items

Etsy Dress Up With I Heart Norwegian Wood

2009-09-09T11:45:00-05:00

MP4 | Youtube | Blip.tv | Subscribe in iTunes

(Music by Chinatown, animation by JuliaPott)

All Etsy videos are Creative Commons, so please embed them on your blog! Help spread the word!

Montreal-based fashion designer Angie Johnson of iheartnorwegianwood is best known for her structuralist leather cage skirts, vintage trim elastic harnesses and colorful fringe necklaces. It's a modern look that dabbles in the silhouettes of bondage, while maintaining its femininity with vintage textiles. When Angie is designing her Norwegian Wood line, she's inspired by the trim and embellishments she finds in local fabric shops. "Montreal used to be one of the main manufacturing capitals of Canada, so there are a lot of great little hidden treasures that I seek out in order to make my designs." Angie is interested in creating accessories and clothing that transform the wardrobe you already have.

[Clockwise from top left: Feathers & Fringe, Elastic Harness - Denim Blue, Chain and Elastic Harness, Floral Collection Leggings - Wild Roses, Luxe Collection - Bike Short Leggings, Punk Ballerina, Maximum Fringe Necklace - Black, Champagne, Denim]

Susie from Style Bubble models her I Heart Norwegian Wood Cage Skirt:

"Thank you Angie for blessing my life with cages. No, that isn't an ironic feminist poetic statement. I thought I'd never mean that sincerely but I do. Why? From the frothy cage dress came a sturdier cage skirt which in reality is a whole lot easier to wear. Depending on how high I pull it up on my waist, there's also different ways of working the structure of the cage."

Cage skirt by iheartnorwegianwood, $110

Queen Michelle from Kingdom of Style models her tweed cage skirt:

"The omni-talented Angie from Norwegian Wood sent me one of her most marvelous cage skirts. I got mine made in brown tweed. I liked the idea of the contemporary shape of the cage combined with the old lady fabric. I never realized just how useful this skirt actually is until I wore it. The day after I received it, I amped up the old lady look and wore it to work with my vintage mustard sweater, some teal tights, Givenchy wedges, librarian glasses and a black bow at my neck."

Cage skirt by iheartnorwegianwood, $110

Angie loved the idea of having a fringe necklace accessory to wear with many dresses rather than owning just one fringe dress. Check out more of her designs self-modeled in her Flickr stream.

Maximum fringe necklace by iheartnorwegianwood, $59

Thanks to Lara Kaluza, a.k.a. lalouka, for her help with the fashion shoot!

More Trends | Fall Fashion Style Guide | More Shopping Posts | More Videos

Retired but Still Bold: Basketmaker John Toft

2009-08-21T13:00:00-05:00

In celebration of today being National Senior Citizens Day, retired Etsian John Toft shares his story of finding basket-making as a young boy and returning to it in his golden years. For John, basket-making has developed into a much-needed meditative outlet when life's everyday stresses wear him down.

A few years before I retired from teaching high school in the remote gold-mining town of Red Lake in N.W. Ontario, I remarked to my wife, Anne, that I should do more than golf and garden when I retire.

I recalled to Anne my early crafting experience, growing up in a beautiful English village called Cheddleton. There, at around the age of nine, the “top class” was introduced to basket-making in the arts and crafts course. Traditionally this class was one not taken seriously by the pupils. However, my twin brother, Frank, and I had other ideas. We took to basket-making as another sports competition. “I will show him how much better at this I am,” I said to myself as he likewise vowed to do better than I. So avidly did we compete, that basketry supplies at the school dwindled to almost zero.

Anne patiently listened to this story as if for the first time. But that Christmas, a book on basket-making appeared beneath the Christmas tree. So my basket-making odyssey began. By the time I retired from teaching, I had found a supplier of basket-making materials (Kilby’s of Toronto, Ontario) and had given friends, relatives and passing strangers what I now recognize as somewhat crudely made baskets. But I was hooked.

At that time, I had been the Chair of Harmony Centre for Community Living in Red Lake for many years. This agency serves all people with developmental, emotional, and physical disabilities. Our adult son, Adrian, a person with autism, was a fully fledged member of that Community Living Centre from the age of sixteen.

We decided to move to Ottawa with Adrian so he would be near his siblings. They could then supervise his life in that community when we were no longer living. Surely, we thought, we could find Adrian similar facilities in “The Nation’s Capital.”

We moved to Ottawa in October 2001. We soon discovered that Ottawa did not have the facilities and programs our son needed. He had to live with us in our basement — this after eight years of supported independent living in his own apartment through the Community Living Centre. It was then that basket-making for me came into its own as a therapeutic occupation.

From 2001, Anne and I battled to get Adrian the facilities and services he had had in Red Lake. We became founding directors of the Families Matters Co-operative Inc., an organization for and about people with developmental disabilities. I made presentations to the Federal House of Commons Finance Committee, the Ontario Legislature’s Finance Committee, and the City of Ottawa. I was the primary author of a position paper called “Dare to Care” that detailed what services should be mandated to all people with developmental disabilities, nationally and provincially. And I registered my basket-making business as John Toft Basketry.

It was this business that kept me fairly sane. My basket-making skills by then were getting better and better. And people were saying fine things about them and even buying them. I enjoy talking to people about my work. I enjoy demonstrating my work, and I enjoy the relaxation that comes as I sit and make another basket. I have to concentrate when I work. My mind cannot focus on the worries of the world when I am weaving. The cares and tribulations about Adrian vanish when I sit down and get on task.

Lobbying, protesting, letter writing, sending emails to politicians of all levels and parties became my life. And the stresses soon began to tell on my health.

By 2008, Adrian was settled in with a wonderful agency, Tamir. He lives in a group home operated by that agency and takes part in their day programs. Families Matter had become a viable organization, receiving funding for three years to engage a paid Executive Director. It was time for both Anne and me to move on and leave the stresses to others. And it became the time when, for me, basket-making became a larger part of my life.

I was making enough money from my basket sales to cover supplies costs and exhibition entry fees, and then I heard about Etsy. “Why don’t you sell your baskets on this world-wide virtual sales system?” suggested Catherine Gutsche, a.k.a gutsche, a local artist and Etsian I often saw at various shows in the Ottawa area. I took up her challenge. Little did I know what a steep learning curve I was to face in working to become a successful Etsian.

I still remember when a computer appeared on my office desk at Red Lake District High School. "You will use this computer to change students' timetables, enter marks, keep track of credits earned, send marks to colleges and universities and register new students.” I gulped and then said, “OK.”

For Etsy, the challenges were different, but the learning curve just as steep. How do I create a banner? What is an avatar, and how do I get it to the right size? For these two problems, and others, the cry was “Anne!!!!!” Anne was a computer programmer from the days of punched cards, but she had kept up and developed her skills and abilities in the intervening years. She formatted my avatar and banner. But I still had to learn about photographs, pricing, descriptions, and tagging.

I soon began developing my blog as a promotional device for my Etsy shop and my baskets. On my blog, I share a great deal about basket-making, and a wide variety of other topics that take my fancy. It also includes occasional posts about our current joys and successes, as well as our trials and tribulations with Adrian as he reaches his 40th birthday this November. The basket-making, the blogging, and Etsy Chat Rooms help me through the day-to-day stresses. When I retired I never thought I would become a chat room addict!

I am a member of the Etsy for Autism Team and I find solace in sharing with members some aspects of our life. I donate 10% of my sales revenue from Etsy to the Geneva Centre for Autism, Toronto. This world-famous research institution for autism is the institution that taught Anne, Adrian and I, his teachers, and the staff at Harmony Centre how to cope with the devastation that autism brings. The donation is one small step I can take to say thanks.

Retirement’s challenges have been many and varied so far. What new challenges will come for us, Adrian, and Etsy? Who can tell? But basket-making will continue to help me survive these challenges as it has done in the past.

Looking for more This Handmade Life posts? Check them out here.

More Posts about Autism or Retirement.

Browse Items from the Etsy for Autism Team.

The Collectors: Vintage Super 8 Cameras

2009-08-19T16:17:00-05:00

Who (are you?): Rikkianne (Chakra Pennywhistle)

What (are you collecting?): Vintage Super 8 Cameras

When (did you start?): About 8 or 9 years ago.

How (many do you have?): 23

Where (do you find them?): Local thrifts and antique stores.

Where (do you keep them?): They are placed on a book shelf in my living room.

What(‘s an interesting story behind one?): Lots of them still have film in them! Someday we plan to get a projector and check them out.

What (piece would you like to add?): I want to find one in an odd color.

Why (do you love them?): It is actually a collection that my husband and I share. He loves them just as much as I do.

What (else do you collect?): Vintage Vera Neumann scarves. I have over 300 of them!

Which (camera is your favourite?): This one was my Grandfather’s. My Grandfather loved films. He loved recording and fiddling with all things film related. That camera was one of his treasures.

Oh I just adore this gorgeous collection, Rikkianne! Thanks so much for sharing it with us. I also adore Chakra Pennywhistle's beautiful handmade creations and her eco-forward style. Her integration of gorgeous, vintage textiles, and newer organic materials helps make her beautiful accessories, for your home, your children, or your self, simply divine, not to mention, wonderfully eco-conscious! She's been an inspiration to me for as long as I've known her (we first met through the wonderful EcoEtsy Team!). I'm inspired by how she incorporates sustainable design and business practices into her beautiful work, blog and life. Plus... she's a wonderful, generous, kind soul! How splendid!

Hope you'll find something she's made that you might like to add to your own collection of wonderful goodies:

Trees

By chakrapennywhistle, $50.

View Item | View Shop

Custom CIRCLE THE DATE Patch

By chakrapennywhistle, $7.

View Item | View Shop

What do you collect? Post in the comments below!

The Collectors Series | Browse Items from the EcoEtsy Team

See More Collections Posts on Rikrak's Blog

Etsy Finds: Been Around the World

2009-08-18T12:00:00-05:00

I don't get to travel anywhere near as much as I would like. Believe me, I try to plan out ambitious globe-spanning vacations, but my journey across the Serengeti usually turns into a weekend in the Poconos. For today's edition of Etsy Finds, I used Etsy's Shop Local feature to search out shops in five cities that I hope will fit into my future travel plans. I started right here in New York, and then went on to Melbourne, Australia — about as far as you can get from NYC and still be on the same planet. On to Calgary, Alberta, where I wouldn't have to sit in front of an air conditioner for half the year, and Austin, Texas where I definitely would. Finally, Madrid, where one day I plan to get acquainted with many local wines. Enjoy the trip!

New York City

Wisteria Vine Earrings

By MayaTobias, $42.

View Item | View Shop

Sticky Bear - Matted Print

By bestiaryink, $15.

View Item | View Shop

Ersatz Handbag SALE

By desirapesta, $36.

View Item | View Shop

Gold Beaded Butterfly Headband

By byme, $55.

View Item | View Shop

Golden Lace Moleskine Journal

By cutiepiecompany, $15.50.

View Item | View Shop

Hand Sculpted Evil Eye Locket

By billyblue22, $45.

View Item | View Shop

Melbourne, Australia

Vintage Enamel Flower Necklace

By rebecca3030, $119.

View Item | View Shop

Peaceful Dove Woolen Scarf

By minniearabella, $24.

View Item | View Shop

Hair Accessory in Swarovski Vintage

By Lulusplendor, $25.

View Item | View Shop

Paradise Necklace, Choker & Bracelet

By Glintbymich, $19.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage 1980s Slinky Black Dress

From BlackSwanVintage, $70.

View Item | View Shop

Champagne White Leather Handbag

By FreiFashion, $120.

View Item | View Shop

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Octopus Girl Original Painting

By thepoppytree, $68.

View Item | View Shop

Super Singer

From FAWNs, $424.

View Item | View Shop

Silky Blossoms Earflap - Ready Made

By knittles, $35.

View Item | View Shop

Little Miss Jelly Toast

By onelatenight, $15.

View Item | View Shop

Banana Belt - Leather

By BrokenEnglishLeather, $65.

View Item | View Shop

Grey Geometric Obi Wrap

By PeekoApparel, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Austin, Texas

She Wore A Pearl Necklace

By gipsieboutique, $56.

View Item | View Shop

Dragonfly

By jhartphotography, $24.

View Item | View Shop

70s Vintage Brown Wrap Skirt

From DalenaVintage, $25.

View Item | View Shop

Heat Treated Copper Earrings

By adornmodern, $18.

View Item | View Shop

14k Gold Swiss Topaz Ring

By annekiel, $104.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Gray Striped Dress

From bellevuevintage, $34.

View Item | View Shop

Madrid, Spain

My Beach Lover Ring

By Auka, $38.

View Item | View Shop

Small Pebble Earrings - Post

By lesthings, $40.

View Item | View Shop

Brown Leather String Bracelet

By luisekeller, $75.

View Item | View Shop

Untitled

By Ruiz, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Rose & Avocado Castile Natural Soap

By CampoDiFiore, $5.55.

View Item | View Shop

Set of 5 Pixel Heart Buttons.

By nuishu, $6.

View Item | View Shop

Looking for more Etsy Finds? Try these links:

Gift Guides | Guest Curators | More Shop Local Posts | Shop Local Feature

Need a daily fix of Etsy Finds? Sign up for the Etsy Finds e-mail! Conveniently delivered to your inbox!

West Coast Etsians, Let's Get Together

2009-07-02T18:00:00-05:00

It's already July, and we're heading out West! Come visit Etsy at Renegade Craft Fair in Los Angeles (July 11th-12th) or San Francisco (July 18th-19th). We'll have a booth at both events and will be giving away lots of Etsy goodies, promos and maybe even holding a raffle or two. If you haven't been to a Renegade Craft Fair before, they are tons of fun, and many of your favorite Etsy artists will be vending.

But we can't go all the way to California and not visit a few more cities on the West Coast while we're there! If you're in or near Seattle, Vancouver, or Portland, we're heading to your town and would love to get together. Come to an Etsy meet up! We'll be answering questions about the site, talking about the future and listening to all your ideas (and eating snacks and having fun while we do it).

Etsy West Coast Tour - Please click here to RSVP for the cities below

July 11 — Los Angeles meet up with Sara and Anda, 8pm at the Veranda Bar of the Figueroa Hotel. We'll be at Renegade Craft Fair until 7pm, and the Figueroa is a short walk away. If you're vending at the Fair, stop by afterward to unwind and chat with us!

July 13 — Seattle meet up with Maria, Matt and Anda, 6pm at Greenwood Collective

July 14 — Vancouver meet up with Maria, Matt and Anda, 7pm at the Cambrian Hall

July 16 — Portland meet up with Matt and Anda, 7pm at the Doug Fir Lounge

See you out West this July! Post in the comments if we'll see you there!

See More Posts about Etsy Meet Ups

Canada Day Special: Karyn Valino of The Workroom

2009-07-01T10:20:00-05:00

Karyn Valino, a.k.a kvalino, is the owner of The Workroom, a "sew & craft by the hour" space in Toronto, Canada. The Workroom is stocked with books, patterns, fabrics and notions that are carefully selected to inspire handmade projects. The fully equipped sewing studio also offers classes in everything from clothing, quilting, beginner upholstery, pattern drafting, and natural dyeing. The Workroom hosts monthly Stitch 'n Bitch events, craft fairs and recently hosted the Toronto meeting with Etsy Admin and local sellers. Karyn chronicles all her crafty adventures and projects on her blog, Make Something.

Happy Canada Day! I try to celebrate local and Canadian talent all year long. As much as I love to make things myself, I am always so thrilled to buy something handmade. When I'm not shopping at local craft fairs and trunk shows at the Workroom, Etsy is my favourite place to scout out gifts for others or special treats for myself. Etsy and the Etsy Labs were actually a big inspiration for me when I was working on my business plan for the Workroom. The Shop Local feature is my favourite way to discover new Etsy sellers in my hometown, Toronto. It was so hard to narrow it down, but I've compiled a selection of my current Canadian-made favourites.

Plush Anatomical Heart (Chunky)

I heart Shannon Gerard's crocheted anatomical heart. She is a crochet genius and this item blows me away and makes me smile. By shannongerard, $12.

View Item | View Shop

Canada House - Maple Leaf - Red White

This little ceramic Canada House by thelittlereddoor would look really cute in the terrarium that I made last year. $15.

View Item | View Shop

secret message envelope - it's okay

This Secret Message Envelope reminds me of the elaborate notes I would pass to my friends in school. So clever! By sweetiepie, $3.

View Item | View Shop

Double Axe Silhouette Brooch

I have a growing brooch collection. In my opinion, you can never have too many. This ax pin has got just the right amount of Canadiana. By touchthedutch, $130.

View Item | View Shop

Bottle Vase - Blue and Red Scallops

I'm in love with Krystal Speck's colourful ceramics. I think this bottle vase would make the perfect summer wedding gift. By krystalspeck, $38.

View Item | View Shop

Pirate Pant

Patouche clothing for kids inspires imaginative playtime. These pirate pants have a special pocket for loot and a loop from which to hang your cardboard sword. $40.

View Item | View Shop

bunny

I collect handmade bunnies, so I bought one of pupa's sweet bunnies for myself. She uses hand dyed organic fabrics and wool stuffing to create her beautiful animal dolls. $37.

View Item | View Shop

The red silk balloon. Original artwork.

I just discovered tinewiggens' shop. Her simple and affordable textile artwork will brighten up your day. $15.

View Item | View Shop

Owl Laptop Bag in Red

Cool laptop bags are hard to find. This item sports one of my favourite birds (the owl!) and colour combinations (red and aqua). Score! By TrackandFieldDesigns, $48.

View Item | View Shop

Laughing and Crying HOLD porcelain and lace doily jar

I would buy everything nestingemily does, if I could. I already own one of her vases, but I've been eyeing her hold jars for ages. I love how she mixes porcelain with vintage textiles. Brilliant. $40.

View Item | View Shop

Felt Mobile- Vegetables- ON SALE

Petitflaneur's educational laser-cut felt mobiles are so unique. My favourite is the vegetable one. It's probably the cutest way to get your kids to fall in love with beets and carrots. $46.

View Item | View Shop

Accordian Wallet Small - Windermere

I see so many customers pull out their DearSukie wallets at the shop. There are so many great prints and sizes to choose from. This one is my favourite. $16.

View Item | View Shop

How are you celebrating Canada Day this year? Post in the comments below!

Shop Local Toronto | More Canada Posts | More Etsy International Posts

Shop Local: Quebec with iheartnorwegianwood

2009-06-24T10:14:00-05:00

We invited Angie from iheartnorwegianwood to curate this Shop Local guide and take us on a jaunt through Quebec in honor of St. Jean Baptiste Day. Meet some artists below and match them to their items at the bottom.

Although my Etsy shop, iheartnorwegianwood, takes up a large chunk of my time, my fiance Tyson, a.k.a. tysonbodnarchuk, and I also run a brick and mortar shop here in Montreal called Headquarters Galerie + Boutique, which sells independently made goods from all over the world. We just celebrated our three year anniversary, and Etsy has been a large part of our business from the beginning. The Shop Local feature has been a great way for us to find amazing hidden local talent of which we may never have otherwise heard!

As a Montrealer, one of our biggest summer celebrations is St. Jean Baptiste Day. The whole city takes a break and enjoys the parks, terraces, bars, music and restaurants. For Tyson and me, it means we get to have a day off from the store, take our two dogs for a long walk, then meet up with friends for some barbecue fun. In the photo above, we are just outside the gates of the St. Eustache Marche Aux Puces (Flea Market). Hunting for treasures is one of our favorite things to do in the summer, you never know what you're going to find! To me, Montreal is always an exciting city, but during St. Jean Baptiste weekend, it's practically vibrating with energy! Bonne St. Jean!

yeye: "Here I am at Le Château Dufresne, my favorite landmark in Montreal: an old mansion built during La Belle Époque. I love Quebec because of its rich history. It fascinates me."

coucousalut: "I cross these train tracks when I'm headed to my studio in Park Extension. I love how they feel like they don't belong in Montreal, but in a small town — and a different era. Montreal is full of great time travel moments like that."

vanessamoore: "Taken in the park beside my apartment on Amherst Street in the Gay Village. I'm completely in love with Montreal, it inspires me, challenges me and comforts me. It's my home, and I wouldn't change a thing about it!"

laraffinerie: "I love Montreal for its public markets, European charm and joie de vivre!"

orno: "Being an architect, Place Ville Marie is one of my favorite spots, an architectural gem from the sixties."

blackmarketbaby: "Me in my 'backyard' in my hometown of Acton Vale, in rural Quebec."

blackeyedsuzie: "Standing in front of Paul Patates Diner, in the traditionally working-class, Irish neighbourhood of Point St. Charles, Montreal. While not a famous landmark, Paul Patates makes yummy poutine (a Quebecois classic) and serves 24 flavours of soft ice cream, which is symbolic of the warm and vibrant diversity of this beautiful, bilingual city; there is no city in North America in which I'd rather live. Joyeux Saint Jean-Baptiste!"

brazendesign: "Montreal is a food-lovers' oasis and one of my favourite indulgences is a languid brunch with friends at L'Express, a classic Parisian bistro that exemplifies Quebec's European charm and demand for quality artisanal creations made with love. Life moves slower and tastes sweeter here. Vive le Quebec!"

thisilk: "Besides the fact that my favorite piece of architecture in the world, the Habitat '67, is in my backyard, I love Montreal for its cultural diversity, the open-mindedness of the people and numerous amazing festivals!"

Shop Local Posts | Shop Local Quebec | Shop Local in Your Area

Please let Etsy's blog know about your favorite local Etsy artists. Pitch your town, state, country or region.

Notes from Etsy's Canadian Meet Up

2009-05-06T10:12:00-05:00

Sara, Chad and I had a fantastic trip up to Canada this past weekend and had the pleasure of meeting with Etsy sellers, buyers and friends in both Toronto and Montreal! We're Etsy Admin for Product, Engineering, and International, respectively, and we learned a lot from our travels North.

Though Air Canada added a wrinkle to our travel plans we did finally get up to Toronto in time to meet with about 45-50 people, most of whom are pictured below.

After we gave a brief introduction, we opened up the floor to questions and suggestions. We heard a range of good ideas for tools such as batch editing, taking orders while in vacation mode (to be processed after vacation) and the ever popular local pick-up. We also talked a bit about how to strengthen the relationship with the maker through expanded profiles, video and having links such as "follow me on Twitter" (about 1/3 of the the attendees have Twitter accounts). Chad and Sara took copious notes. Some of the requests, such as rearranging items in your shop and more clearly stating USD next to prices, are slated for release soon. Our host Karyn, a current Etsy buyer and owner of The Workroom, where we held the event, was kind enough to publish this blog post about the event. And minouette also did a great write up on the Trans-Canada Etsy Team blog.

It was a quick stop in Toronto as we were on the 8am flight to Montreal to meet another group of 40-45 people at Headquarters Galerie & Boutique, where our host Angie set us up.

The format was the same and there was a lot of energy in the room — must have been that extra bit of sleep we allowed by moving the start time to 11am :) There were loads of ideas, including getting the word out to more buyers (we noted a number of suggestions on this front), making it easier to search within the listings in your shop, improving communication tools for Teams, and a comment about accents not showing up in Shop Local. Note: We're looking at many changes to Shop Local, but for now it's best to eliminate accents from your profile location (in other words, type Montreal with no accent over the e, to ensure you're found in the Shop Local feature).

Special thanks to MileEndSoapandCandle who gave us this totally cool custom Etsy candle. I'm not sure she knew that Etsy was turning four this June but we'll be sure to put it on our cake!

The Q Team also had a nice showing with the eight members below in attendance.

Team members from left to right, back row: Mezzo, JulieWebb, GiftedDesigns (member coordinator), nellyvansee. Front row: KatjaDesign, LunarWorkshop (Q Team leader), juliejongleuese, Suza.

The Q Team's stated goal is "to promote the work of crafters and artists living and working in Quebec and to support one another in taking our business to the next level." From their enthusiasm I'd say they're living up to it!

Overall, I can't say enough good things about the people, the cities and Canada in general. We had a great visit and look forward to my the adventure North!

Please add photo notes with your names to the Flickr photos!

Cheers,

Liz, a.k.a. muka

O Canada! Meet with Etsy Admin

2009-05-01T11:14:00-05:00

*Attention people meeting us at The Workroom in Toronto today - Air Canada canceled our flights and re-booked us for a bit later this afternoon. WE ARE STILL COMING but may be a little late. We'll do our best to arrive as close to 5pm as possible but please go ahead and introduce yourselves to each other and feel free to open the refreshments before we arrive! See you soon!*

Greetings to our friends up North! As mentioned in our previous post regarding our trip to Europe, we're planning a trip to Canada, specifically Toronto and Montreal. On this trip I'll be traveling with Sara Hicks, Etsy's VP of Product and Chad Dickerson, our Chief Technology Officer (CTO). We look forward to meeting with Etsy sellers, buyers and friends in the following places:

Toronto - Friday, May 1 from 5:00pm-8:00pm at The Workroom

Montreal - Saturday, May 2 from 11am-1:30pm at Headquarters Galerie & Boutique

Thanks to kvalino for inviting us into The Workroom for our Toronto meeting. It looks like the Dufferin or Lansdowne Metro stops are the closest and I understand this is a very hip neighborhood!

Thanks as well to iheartnorwegianwood for offering up the space in Montreal! She also let me know that people in Montreal don't like to get up too early so we moved the start time to 11am. We'll be sure to have some breakfast snacks available! The Galerie is easily accessible by the Metro to Beaudry Station (see link above for more info/directions).

We look forward to seeing you in Toronto and Montreal!

— Liz (aka Muka)

Etsy International | Shop Local Canada

Quit Your Day Job: rikrak

2009-04-27T15:33:00-05:00

Kristal's business rikrak was born when she found out she was pregnant with her son. As her passion for making quilted baby play mats grew, her quilts began catching the eye of local boutiques and Etsians. Since joining Etsy, Kristal has made well over 1,500 sales, has sold through 90 boutiques around the world (after finding her shop through Etsy), and has been featured in five major print publications. Her success on Etsy has enabled her to stay at home with her son instead of going back to her previous teaching job. She hasn't looked back since!

How did you originally get into the business of making things?

I was very fortunate to grow up in a home that fostered hand-spun creativity. My brother and I were always concocting and making, and our wonderful parents encouraged us to create grand artistic messes! Over the years, I also had the great delight of spending extra-special time with my amazing grandmother – a master quilter – whose talents I had admired ever since I was little enough to play in her sewing and notions baskets (brimming over with colourful rickrack), and whose great fascination with repurposing I’d always shared. When I was pregnant with our little sweetie a few years back, my grandmother taught me to sew and quilt. I just loved it! When she sadly passed away shortly after his birth, I inherited her collection of beautiful vintage fabrics. Soon, our shelves were overflowing with lovely retro prints and my new works in progress (my poor hubby). So, there’s a bit of that personal history in all the work I make for rikrak now.

With that as a foundation, my little business came together in early 2007. Shortly after I started making quilted playmats and gifts for all of our baby friends, my family and friends started encouraging me to sell them! I was hesitant, but I also realized how fabulous it would be to handmake things to supplement our income, while also fulfilling our dream to have stay-@-home parenting for our little sweetie. So I got to work designing, creating and repurposing my fabrics into fun and functional patchwork goodies. Eventually, I garnered the courage to list some items on Etsy, and around that same time, a shop here in Ottawa kindly took my work into their brick and mortar store! And the rest, as they say, is history!

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?

In another lifetime, before our little sweetie was born, I was an elementary school teacher. While I loved teaching curious little kiddies, I knew there wasn’t the flexibility of being able to stay at home with our son in that career. So, most of all, becoming a full time crafter was born out of brainstorming fun ideas to envision a workable career move. To be honest, becoming a full time handcrafter was a wonderful surprise! When rikrak was just starting out, I would play all day with our son, then work away like crazy at night once he was asleep. It was an ideal fit for our family situation, despite the long nights!

I first came to Etsy (which I discovered after joining the wonderful world of flickr in 2007) because I heard it would be a great way to build my little business. After getting up the courage to list something (two months after I first joined!) I realized that, through Etsy, I could build my business bigger than I ever thought possible. Within that first year, I had over 50 shops from around the world selling rikrak goodies, and had begun to establish a great base of friendly support. This wonderful handmade community encouraged me…and soon my little sweetie was in school ½ days…and this meant a little more work time. Soon it became my new dream to craft full time! I’ve been so fortunate…the little project just grew and grew. Soon I was creating, designing, making whenever I had a minute, and loving it! Isn’t it funny how things in life just open themselves up like that?

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?

I have to be honest. The way I prepared for a bigger business was the way I prepared for my little business. My parents would call it trying to be resourceful and thrifty! They always taught me to solve any problem with creative brainstorming, using what you’ve got on hand, and working to your strengths, rather than being something you’re not.

Still, starting a new business can be daunting. When I started out, we didn’t have any extra cash to invest in a lot of business overhead, or bulk materials, or other start-up expenses. So instead, I tried to get creative, and decided to take care of as many parts of the business myself as I could (to save on outsourcing).

This was DIY-ing, indeed, as it meant that I designed and printed my own labels, cards and business paper goods. I also only bought as many supplies as I could afford (and then more as needed), I kept my inventory small and made orders for shops as they came in (so the more orders I had, the more supplies I could buy). While this isn’t always ideal, for me it was the only way to make it work. I couldn’t invest in a great leap at the start. So I took small steps, building as I could.

This was my business strategy and safety net, and it still is; I still do all these small tasks myself, and it continues to make my work sustainable, especially as the market or sales fluctuate. In slower periods, I have the chance to create new goodies and I’m not stuck with a grand amount of materials. In super-busy seasons, I supply myself accordingly.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?

Here are a few things that I’ve found most effective that I’d be happy to share!

Be kind, friendly and positive. This is how I try to live and work. I know that’s not always so easy to do, but I really think that relaying a genuine kindness to your customers through your work can go a long way. One of my greatest hopes is that I’m building a kind, eco-forward, sustainable business.

Make great, quality, eco-friendly products that you love and are proud of.

Having a loving, supportive family that spreads the handmade word. (I’m so lucky!)

Figure out your strengths and work to them. We live in a great little place in the heart of our beautiful city and we don’t have much extra room for a full-time at-home business. So, our dining room does double-duty as family table by day, craft studio by night. Spending money on advertising was an expense my little business couldn't afford at the start, so instead, I focus on my adoration of photography, and spend a lot of time taking the best pictures I can. I use an inexpensive point and shoot camera, and only natural window-light in all of my photos (even though waiting for a sunny day can sometimes require patience, especially during those long winter months in Ottawa!). I think the time investment of making great pictures has really been a good one!

Finally, I have to say that the best marketing I’ve done is creating listings on Etsy and being part of this great handmade community. I’ve been so fortunate, I’ve never paid for an ad for rikrak, but I’ve invested money in listing whenever I can on Etsy. For me, that’s been a great strategy with great returns.

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?

When I was first starting out, I promoted some high-end products, trying to present the most complex crafts I could conceive. These were fun yet time-consuming, and would take me weeks to complete. But, I never felt comfortable charging for the immense amount of time these projects took, and sometimes even lost money on them! I’ve since dropped many of these items from my regular lines, and streamlined my projects so that market pricing has played a role in what I sell. Most of those extra special items are reserved, now, for loved ones.

Walk us through your typical workday.

Gosh, it's a fun one!

6:30 am: We wake up with little rikrak

6:30 – 8: 30 am: Lego-building projects, arts and crafting for fun, a yummy breakfast, coffee-ing begins.

8:30 ish – Mr. Rikrak goes off to work and the mommying morning starts! Most days, little rikrak and I take a walk, play at the park, work on some fun little projects we’re doing, have 80s dance parties in the living room, or mess up the kitchen, etc. I take a few little breaks here and there to check rikrak messages, sales, do a listing, etc, planning what to do once work time starts. My previously written blog post goes up!

If it’s a beautiful morning, I encourage little rikrak to help me take my natural-light product photos beside our dining room window (he’s a great little photographer!) and if little rikrak has a fun extra-curricular activity that morning, then it’s onto Morning Plan B: work, work, work!

1:00 pm: After lunch, drop little rikrak off at school for a few hours and race home to start rikraking! Respond to orders, queries, etc. pack up new orders, do some cutting, sewing, and ironing.

Run to the post office. Reward myself by dropping into the forums or hopping on twitter for mini-breaks. More coffee!

3:30 pm: Pick up little rikrak! Or Plan B: have Mr. Rikrak pick up little rikrak

Around 5:30 pm: Dinnertime for the family rikrak. Family visiting. Then, a fun board game or two. Funny tales from the day, bathtime, and story time.

7:30 pm: Cute little rikrak goes to bed and the rikrak night shift begins! These days, this is when the real bulk of work time happens for me. More cutting and sewing. List more goodies, design new works, pack up orders, prepare the next day's blog post, etc. Mr. Rikrak is a fun doctoral student and instructor, so sometimes (when he’s not working on his thesis) he’ll be so cute and will read a novel for the class he’s teaching out loud while I sew! I love it.

Around 11:30 pm: Try to stop sewing. Go to bed, cuddle and dream of new designs!

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?

Oh gosh, I just love so many things about this job! I mostly love the joy of being able to choose my own adventure. I love being able to design and craft to make a living! I can’t think of a better job. Rikraking + mommying = wonderful. What I miss? Like so many folks, I find there’s no "off button" in having my own business. I often feel like I’m always on, creating new goodies, filling orders, responding to queries, and my head is constantly filled with new designs. I’ll keep working at that one!

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?

This might sound like a cliché, but I think anything’s possible if you put your mind to it! Believe in yourself. It makes things much easier!

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?

I’m so excited about the new things afoot at rikrak!

Finish structuring a book project that I’m working on with my designs and patterns.

Continuing to build my little business in new ways.

Growing my new little blog.

Continuing to make fun new designs and eco-friendlly products... stay tuned!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I’d just like to say… I owe such a huge thank you to Etsy and the Etsy community! Two years ago, I would never have guessed that this career would have even been possible. For me, Etsy has been the single best way to build my handmaking business. Its global exposure is just phenomenal! Through Etsy, I’ve now sold thousands of items, had over 90 shops from around the world find me and sell my goodies, had five major print magazines discover my work and feature it, and had the immense fortune to meet many like-minded, handmaking superstars who have become dear "colleagues" in the virtual work-world! Through Etsy’s various Teams (I’m so proud to be part of the TransCanada Etsy Team, Team EcoEtsy, the Trashion Team, and EtsyMom) I’ve met so many kindred folk! Thank you so much, Etsy, for making this wonderful community possible and for launching many a handmaking career. Cheers to you!

Keep up with Kristal on the web:

Her blog: http://www.rikrakstudio.blogspot.com
Her flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/rikrak

Her twitter: http://twitter.com/therikrakshop

Or see her Tuesday, April 28th at 4pm EDT in Etsy's Virtual Labs for a live Quit Your Day Job chat!

You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here! Take a look at some of Kristal's gorgeous bags below.

Quit Your Day Job: ChaCha2

2009-04-20T16:07:00-05:00

After being let go from a day job she already hated (on a day when she was locked out of her house in the rain), Lori of ChaCha2 decided she had no other choice than to make her goal of being an independent bag designer a viable reality. Plunging feet-first into self employment has taught Lori the importance of creating a plan for her business, setting both short and long term goals. She now knows the significance of remembering that things take time. After all, few things happen over night. With these lessons in mind, Lori finds herself today running a sustainable business with the ability to take a two hour lunch whenever she pleases.

How did you originally get into the business of making things?

I think I have always made things. Even as a little kid my neighbor and I would would paint pictures and try and sell them to all the parents on our street from a stand we set up in my driveway. I have tried my hand in making all kinds of things: knitting, cooking, painting, sculpting, even paper mache. I started making handbags while I was in college and it stuck.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?

I always wanted to be my own boss, but had no real plans or expectations. Everything in my career has really been a result of circumstance and experimenting. I was kind of forced into taking the plunge about a year into being on Etsy. I was fired from a job that I absolutely hated, the same afternoon I locked myself out of my apartment (in the rain, no less). While sitting on my front steps, waiting for my landlord, I wasn't upset or worried, it just became clear to me that I had to make CHA CHA work.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?

Looking back, I wish I had been a little more prepared. I was really inexperienced, so I just started. I already had my business registered, but aside from that I would buy supplies when I had the money, make a piece, when it would sell I would buy more supplies to make something else.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?

As a new business the marketing budget is small or non-existent. Not having a budget forces you to get creative with your marketing. Word of mouth has been great. I have had great support from bloggers all over the world writing about my stuff and sharing it with their readers. I always have cards on me and pass them out to anyone who I think may be interested. I have also found that having my own blog helps, as it gives your buyers a little look into what you do and who you are and keeps them coming back.

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?

I have tried a little bit of paid advertising here and there and I really haven't seen any return on it.

Walk us through your typical workday.

Wake up around 8am, grab my computer, respond to emails and create my list for the day. I can't live without lists, I have books full of them.
Take my dog for a long walk and head to my studio.
I package up any orders, then refer to my list of things to do. I usually work in an "assembly line" kind of style. One day I cut all the leather and lining, them the next day I sew, and the next day I put all the hardware on, and so on.
Around 4pm I take my dog home (which is a 3 min. walk from my studio), feed us, sit on the couch for a bit, then head back to the studio.
Finish up any orders and spend some time on the internet doing research, looking for new bloggers to contact, list a few new items on Etsy and take a few minutes to check the latest celebrity gossip.
Depending on how many orders I have that day or how many new ideas I have, my day can be any where from 10-12 hours long. I really don't feel like I work a lot though. I think loving what you do, combined with the freedom of creating your own schedule, makes long days feel normal.

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?

I love not waking up to an alarm anymore. I love that I'm often excited to go to sleep at night just so I can hurry up and get into the studio in the morning. I love that I can meet a friend for a two hour lunch at two in the afternoon. I love seeing the direct result of my hard work. I really don't miss anything.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?

I feel like I would have seen more results faster if I had done a bit more research. I really just jumped and probably wasted quite a bit of time and money running in circles. Check out what other people in your field are doing and ask them questions; 99.5% of the time people are more then willing to help. I would also suggest creating a plan for your business and set both short term and long term goals: if you see it on paper it becomes much easier to accomplish. (There is something about crossing accomplished goals off my list that makes me happy, but maybe that's just me.)

For people working specifically in leather, I suggest working out your new styles in a heavy fabric similar to leather, maybe canvas. When I first started I would get so excited about new ideas I would start a brand new style in leather. Mistakes or miscalculations are bound to happen when you are starting out and using leather the first time around can mean costly errors.

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?

Increasing sales is always a goal. I would also like to take advantage of more of the features that Etsy offers, such as the Virtual Labs. I have been so focused on my own shop that I haven't taken the time to really explore all that Etsy has to offer. I have a few other ideas for my shop brewing, so you will have to stay tuned.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I guess if I could offer any advice or words of wisdom, it would be to really believe in what you love and work HARD for it. It is a LOT of work, it's full of all kinds of highs and lows, but there something about seeing your passion become a reality that makes it all worth it. It's also important to remember that things take time: everything doesn't happen overnight. I am a very impatient person by nature, so this has been a tough one for me to learn, but if you are working hard and doing the best work you can, people will take notice and it will pay off eventually.

I also want to the thank the whole Etsy community, admin, buyers and sellers. The amount of support here is incredible. Every kind convo is great motivation and just as valuable as a sale. Keep an eye on my CHA CHA shop...every day my sewing gets stronger and ideas get crazier. I'm really excited about this next year and think great things are just around around the corner.

You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here! Take a look at some of Lori's gorgeous bags below.

Guest Curator: Eco Chic with Style at Home's Laurie Grassi

2009-04-15T12:50:00-05:00

Laurie Grassi is the executive editor for Canadian magazine, Style at Home and the Natural Chic blogger at StyleatHome.com, so all of her time is consumed by thoughts of beautiful homes, fantastic home decor accessories, and how to live in a more eco-friendly but still stylish way. When she does have a spare moment, she rides her horse, Lex, who also loves the Earth, but in a somewhat different way: He likes to roll around in the mud and get as dirty as possible!

I’m always on the lookout for great natural products for the home, and I recently posted about a colourful baby quilt by Etsy’s SewnNatural. There are masses of other fabulous earth-friendly products on Etsy, and this is just a small sampling!

FLOWER FIELD Organic Linen Napkins / Set of 2

I love the splash of colour on these organic linen napkins. They’re hand-screenprinted using water-based inks, and 5% of the profits go to Friends Without a Border, a charity that provides medical care to children in Cambodia. Goodness all around! By natsuminishizumi, $30.

View Item | View Shop

vintage fabric hearts in orange and lime green

These lavender sachets from pouch will add a sweet scent to your drawers or closets and repel moths in a natural, chemical-free way; plus, they’re made from vintage recycled fabric. By pouch, $11.50.

View Item | View Shop

Yellow Dragonfly Night Light

What a clever use of an old can! MariposaAvenue takes what would otherwise be trash and turns it into an attractive light fixture by cutting out a pretty design, painting it a bright, cheery colour and adding a light equipped with a photo sensor so it only comes on when the room is dark enough. Perfect for when guests come to visit or wee ones just find the dark too frightful. By MariposaAvenue, $15.

View Item | View Shop

Recycled Bright Summer Flowers Journal and Sketchbook - Very Thick Eco-Friendly Book

Feeling inspired? If you’re not already, you will be by this colourful 80-page book. It’s handmade, 100% recycled and perfect for jotting down your thoughts or sketching pictures. By BurgundyDistrict, $17.

View Item | View Shop

White Purity - Vinyl Record Bowl

How many people do you know who can say they have something as unique as this absolutely fabulous white bowl? I simply can’t say enough about how smashing I think it is! Unfortunately, this item just sold - so disappointing! But that's what happens on Etsy, so if you see something you love, grab it quickly! Let's hope vinylrocksmyworld finds more of these white records and quickly! By vinylrocksmyworld, $13.

View Item | View Shop

SEAHORSES 14 inch Recycled Felt Applique Pillow

Get a little taste of the seaside and summer with this 100% recycled felt appliqué pillow from alexandraferguson, pillow-maker extraordinaire. These jaunty little creatures are soft, cute and cuddly and are sure to add charm to any interior. Who would have believed they were once plastic water bottles? By alexandraferguson, $49.

View Item | View Shop

Letterpress counting poster in green and pink

This charming 8.5” x 11” letterpress poster from Canadian illustrator sweetbeets is on 100% cotton paper made of fibres recycled from the fabric industry. By sweetbeets, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Reiter8 Recycled Sail Tote - Blue Number 8

The stark, graphic quality of this tote from Reiter8 really makes it shine. Crafted from upcycled sailboat sails, the tote’s number is appliqued on the front and red organic cotton lines the inside, which is divided into three sections so you can easily organize all your gear. (Check out Etsy's Handmade Portrait video with Reiter8 for a peek at her process!) By reiter8, $75.

View Item | View Shop

Handwoven Felted Wool Rag Rug.

Canadian crafter fiveforty turned old sweaters into this gorgeous felted wool rug. The lovely gradations of greys, blues and greens bring to mind lakes and cool green forests. By fiveforty, $240.

View Item | View Shop

Army Blanket Pillow with Stripe and Webbing Handle

Made out of surplus Italian army blankets, the modern, somber tones of these pillows from Vancouver crafter ouno would look chic against clean-lined white slipcovers in the summer. By ouno, $60.

View Item | View Shop

Cherry Blossom Vase - Freehand Etched on Reclaimed Glass

Tuck a sprig of spring blossoms into this petite reclaimed glass vase etched by TrilliumArtisans member Amanda Siska. (You can also check out her Etsy shop breadandbadger.) By TrilliumArtisans, $45.

View Item | View Shop

felted wool beach stones - rustic turquoise - set of 15

Add a hit of colour to your home’s surfaces with these quirky felted-wool-wrapped stones. Lisa Jordan uses wool from old clothing and finds her inspiration in nature – I’m in love with the colour and love the idea of these stones! By lilfishstudios, $30.

View Item | View Shop

Longing to check out more of Laurie’s Natural Chic finds? Visit http://www.styleathome.com/naturalchic. You can also follow her on twitter! For more about Style at Home, go to http://www.styleathome.com.

Check out our archive for more Guest Curated goodness.

Environmentally Friendly Gift Guide | Earth Tones Series

Highlights from Etsy's 2009 European Visit

2009-04-14T09:10:00-05:00

Maria (Etsy's Chief Executive Officer) and I (Liz, Etsy Admin for Internationalization) just got back from Europe! We had the great pleasure to meet with Etsy sellers, buyers and friends in Munich, Berlin, Paris and London between March 29 and April 4, 2009.

From left to right: Fée à Bastille, TortillaGirl, MonAmiVie, LaCometaLab, Muka, Malam (Photo by Maria aka pesmou)

We also had the chance to meet with marketing and PR specialists, bloggers, and the founders of other leading ecommerce companies in different industries. All of these folks helped provide a much clearer picture of not only the differences and similarities of the individual markets, but also the challenges and opportunities for Etsy as we continue to grow internationally.

Still being new to Etsy (I started working here in January, 2009), it was great to meet and hear in person the passion that you all have for your work and for the Etsy community. And what an incredibly global community it is! As Diana (LaCometaLab) so eloquently put it in her blog post about the Paris event: "As soon as the gathering started we realized what truly an international community we are: The range of nationalities was quite impressive... There were people from the U.S., Switzerland, Argentina, Norway or Spain, and some of them had come from different locations in France to be just there." We counted at least a dozen nationalities beyond the ones that were local to the cities we visited, and we heard story after story of the valued relationships formed through Etsy — the word "addicted" was used more than once to describe the relationship many people have to the community.

In each meeting Maria and I shared a bit of the nearly 4-year history of Etsy and gave some background as to how we got to where we are today. But we tried to spend most of our time listening to all of you! In addition to feedback about desired features and functionality, we were also given great suggestions about popular local blogs (LesMads, for example) and magazines (such as LandLust) to check out. We were educated that people love to blog (and write books!) in France, that Germans strongly prefer bank transfer as a form of payment, and that sellers in the UK are really clamoring to list their prices in British pounds. Though we can't promise when that last request will be met, we can say that making USD more clear on the site really is coming soon, and that in addition to "Europe" as a shipping option we also plan to include an "EU Only" choice based on your feedback from this trip.

Some more of Maria's photos from the trip. Top: Anasousa (Paris), ArianeLulu (Paris), RoseRedRose (Berlin)

Bottom: GetEurofied (Denmark via London) with me; SnapDragonBeads & MyAphrodite (London)

As you might have guessed from that bottom photo on the right, I also had the pleasure of attending "Handm@de Cambridge" on Saturday April 4, 2009. Hand@de Cambridge was put on by several Etsy members, including the ladies above, as well as LazyGiraffe, MomentsByMartha, and TwinklySpangle. There's a great blog post recapping the event. Six hundred people turned out to buy fantastic handmade items.

LushandLovely with ArtyAllSorts

Maria and I want to say thanks again to everyone who came out to see us — often traveling to do so — as we really appreciated that you took the time out of your busy lives to help educate us on both your market and individual needs.

As mentioned in the original post about our trip, the next stop is Canada! This time I'll be traveling with a couple other members of the Etsy team (likely from the Product and Engineering Teams) and we're targeting the first weekend (Friday-Saturday) in May. Details will follow in a separate post. In the meantime, if you'd like more information you can click here to add your name to the Canada mailing list. If you've already done so from our earlier post, no need to do it again as we have your name on file.

A bientot!

Liz aka Muka

Etsy International | Shop Local Europe

Etsy Finds Decor: Playful Parlor

2009-03-29T10:26:00-05:00

This weekend's Get the Look: Decor is inspired by the British Columbia home of Etsy seller April of WhiteApple. She shares an apartment in an Arts and Crafts era building with her boyfriend Shane. April says her decorating style is inspired by everything around her, especially the colors of the West Coast, mossy trees, Wes Anderson, Ukiyo-e, Charles Voysey, the Victorians and the Mods.

The historical elements within their home, as well as their Victorian style furniture, remind me of weekend trips to my grandmother's house — and I mean that in a very good way! Their home has managed to capture a cozy, romantic old fashioned feeling, with just a hint of modern charm.

Visit Etsy's There's No Place Like Here flickr pool to view more photos of April and Shane's home, and check out the Etsy Finds below to find out how you can add a little romantic charm to your own home decor.

Landscape 70 24x24inch original oil painting

Living down the street from several antique and thrift stores, April is always on the lookout for great used furniture and accessories. I love the way she used a gorgeous vintage landscape painting as inspiration for the color palette in her living room. This large-scale oil painting by RozArt has a great color scheme that is sure to inspire a complete room makeover. By RozArt, $200.

View Item | View Shop

Velvet Allium Cushion

Victorian décor includes many luxurious fabrics like velvet and lace. This bold graphic velvet pillow puts a more modern twist on an old fashioned fabric. By ukdesigns, $35.

View Item | View Shop

LAST ONE............Retro Pendant.....pick your color

This rewired pendant lamp is the perfect shade of green to highlight the lush greenery seen in landscape paintings. Its simplicity will complement any style of home décor. By kamlampcompany, $95.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Deer and Stump Vase

April explains her home decorating style as having a maximalist aesthetic. “The collections may change throughout the years, but one thing is certain: I like stuff! I love being surrounded by things that I love and that inspire me. At the moment my collections include lighting, Japanese textiles, Japanese figurative ceramics, Blue Mountain pottery, and Victorian furniture. Shane collects records and musical instruments, and combined we have a shoe collection that would put Imelda Marcos to shame!” I think I see plenty of room on the windowsill for one more ceramic figurine. This little deer vase is impossible to pass up! From LaLah, $20.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Coffee Tin w/Succulent

The abundance of plants helps to add a touch of new life to the historical details of April and Shane's nearly hundred-year-old Arts and Crafts era building. April says she loves “the feeling of history, and imagining the past incarnations of our apartment” and appreciates the character details that still remain, including “the nearly hundred-year-old windows that rattle in the wind, and the old radiators that clang when the heat comes on, and the poor neglected wooden floors that stab us with their bountiful splinters.” From imwishfulthinking, $20.

View Item | View Shop

4 Brass Lion Claw Feet leg covers

Add these vintage brass claw feet to the legs of an old wooden table to give it a hint of Victorian charm. From AtticRat, $12.

View Item | View Shop

Astern the Jack Rabbit Love Creature

I was excited to spot a Jack Rabbit Love Creature on the beautiful brocade chair in April's living room. I too have a set of these rabbits in my own home, which hop around from chair to chair as if they have minds of their own. By LookWhatICanDo, $35.

View Item | View Shop

Vintage Round Gold Ornate Mirror

This gorgeous vintage mirror is the perfect complement to a home filled with Victorian inspired décor. From onlinechic, $195.

View Item | View Shop

Yellow and Cream Floral Pillow from a Tord Boontje Print Upholstery Wool

April works part time as a merchandiser for a housewares store that stocks the work of designer Tord Boontje. She owns several fabulous pieces from his collection, so I'm sure she'll appreciate this pillow made from remnants of Boontje's upholstery fabric. By ouno, $150.

View Item | View Shop

Wall-Mounted Half Table

This lyre-style wall mounted half table is the perfect piece of furniture for a home or apartment that's short on space. By summerland, $135.

View Item | View Shop

Looking for more styles and interiors? Check out our new video series, There's No Place Like Here, where creative types show us their unique spaces — infused with their aesthetic and filled with the treasures they collect. Get involved and show us your amazing space in this flickr pool.

While we're talking videos, got one you'd like to share? We are looking for fun projects, how-tos, and skill-share videos for the Etsy blog. Stop by this Forum thread to show off your multi-media talents, or nominate a friend to be featured.

Check out other Get the Look - Home Decor Editions.

A Cozy Home Gift Guide | Housewares Category | Vintage Housewares

Need a daily fix of Etsy Finds? Sign up for the Etsy Finds e-mail! Conveniently delivered to your inbox!

Aw, Snap! Hine's Animation Clicks

2009-02-26T23:43:00-05:00

Canada-based Etsy seller and animator-extraordinaire Hine sent her new animation in to the blog. It's an ad for the cute, felt camera cases she makes by hand. As you can see, Hine is very talented, but what about this banana slug? He's going places!

Search for Felt Items | More Animation Posts | Subscribe to Etsy's iTunes Podcast

Handmade Portraits: Black-eyed Suzie

2009-02-19T17:00:00-05:00

YouTube | MP4 | blip.tv | Subscribe in iTunes

(music by Espers, animation by JuliaPott)

Canadian artist and writer Sarah Faber aka Blackeyedsuzie started making art dolls while she was living in the woods of Maine, unable to legally work in the States. Sarah tired of constantly being in her own head as she worked endlessly on her first novel, so she decided she needed to do something with her hands. She chose doll-making because she could build on her experiences as a young girl, helping her crafty mother make beautiful dolls. After buying some books Sarah started experimenting with polymer clay, and eventually paper clay.

Blackeyedsuzie's style was influenced by her love for Gothic novels, Victorian and Elizabethan costumes and Dame Darcy's comic Meat Cake. Her dolls are infused with the same elongated, wide-eyed traits as the characters of Edward Gorey and Tim Burton. However, Sarah's dolls have their own style: Victorian beauties with a dark side — card sharks, bourbon drinkers, albinos and vampires...

Sarah doesn't necessarily consider her dolls to be Gothic, although some are dark and contain elements of the supernatural or uncanny. She considers them to be "Victorian, with a certain edge." The dolls' descriptions tell tales of dire lives of Victorian England, but not without a certain playful wink.

Watch our other Handmade Video Portraits and subscribe to our Youtube Channel!

Steampunk and Noir Gift Guide | Art Doll Posts | Art Doll Category | Gothic Posts

Voter Favorites: The Loveliest Ladies' Item!

2009-02-09T12:10:00-05:00

Who is the loveliest of them all? The winner is kateszabone's white sapphire 14K gold ring (or rings...they're stackable!). Congratulations to kateszabone, a Canadian WAHM (work-at-home-mom) who quit her real estate day job and is Etsying full-time! Her jewelry is stunning, simple, and handmade with love. Wouldn't this make a gorgeous engagement ring, people? You can see the top 21 favorites in the related items below. Look for some of these in the Gift Guides as well. Thank you to all who voted! You can see all the entries here.

Choose your favorite item from the extreme cuteness in the current poll: lovey dovey items makes you go awwwww! VOTE HERE!

Want to get involved? Our next round of voting will certainly be a good time. We want to know, "How do you party?" — whether it's Mardi Gras, Carnival, prom, the Oscars, or just any excuse to get dressed up and have a ball. We'll be looking for items that scream glam, glitz, and good-times, hosting, getting dolled up, and going out on the town. Make your suggestions in the comments below and you might find your item in the running!

More Voting posts | Gift Guides

Gift Ideas: Shop Local Montreal with supayana

2008-12-15T15:00:00-05:00

Yay supayana! We invited this Canada-based clothing designer to curate this Shop Local guide, Montreal edition. Shopping local is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint — and to get your items in a speedier manner! Meet some artists below and match them to their items at the bottom.

Here I am in front of the Orange Julep in Montreal. It's a giant orange-shaped fast food restaurant that was built in the 1940's, on the side of a highway. Waitresses clad in roller skates used to serve people in their cars. Nowadays, you have to walk up to the counter, but you can still buy a deliciously creamy, frothy "Orange Julep" drink. Oh, and they have good veggie burgers, too! It was hard to pick my favorite Montreal place/monument because there are so many beautiful, historical, architectural wonders to choose from. In fact, the Orange Julep is probably the last place native Montrealers would think of. I like it because it represents the strange and unexpected...and that is exactly what you'll find in the city of Montreal.

Elaine Ho from Roadkill: "This photo was taken just outside Montreal during an apple picking trip. This chicken wasn't very interested in the cucumber."

This is Sam and Sara (aka The PinPals) from redroostercraft. [Photo by Marilis Cardinal]

This is Jen from Jen Ham.

Adam from waitominute: "This was taken in front of a community garden somewhere in between my apartment and my favourite Caribbean roti place. It also documents one of the times where I was smart enough to wear a helmet on my bicycle. It's getting cold again in Montreal and this photo makes me nostalgic for a warmer time of year when I had the courage to leave my neighbourhood every once and a while."

This is Amy Johnson from Woodenapples: "Here I am in my shop with a Bookhou pillow."

Marc from Broundoor: "Even though I work mostly with recycled leather, the sparks still fly sometimes in my basement workshop. Here I am working on a belt buckle made from recycled wood and leather."

This is Angie from Iheartnorwegianwood: "Tyson and I are together most of the time, especially since we run a store together here in Montreal. When I can escape his creepy hair sniffing ways, you'll find me in my studio surrounded by an organized mess, working on owls, logs or various clothing projects."

Tyson Bodnarchuk: "Like most guys my age, I grew up on a steady diet of Star Wars, comic books, horror movies and The Muppets. These things have come to be a big influence in my art, so you'll find all sorts of monsters and other creatures in my paintings and handpainted shoes/purses."

Carolyn from Mookasoap: "This photo was taken in my studio/boutique, in my favorite Montreal neighborhood - St.Henri. The area is home to a myriad of artists, musicians, and poets, and provides much of my inspiration for new work. Although it's warm and cozy in my studio, outside the world is covered in snow and ice, and I'm happy to be inside."

This is Mimi from Mimi Traillette: "This is me with Roger, the very first octopus I sewed! I made it on a plushie sewing night I had with some friends. At that time neither of us knew that many others would follow.
He still quietly sits in my living room."

Janice from glaciermilk: "In this pic, I was just getting ready to have a milk'n'honey bath! Glaciermilk is fashion for the naked! Sewing through my imagination keeps me sane...I LOVE CREATING !!"

Janet from Janet Miller Designs: "Water has been a huge inspiration for me in my work, and is an element in my recent collection E N G E L Frozen Whispers. I can remember when I was little taking walks with my twin sister and my grandfather along the railroad tracks near the ocean in Dalhousie, New Brunswick. Since then, I have had an innate need to be near the water. For the last few years I have been living in Montreal, and daily I live nostalgic moments from my childhood, from certain streets I walk down to old abandoned buildings. Recently I moved near the Old Port so I am only a few minutes away from the water. I take my dog Falkor for a walk along the port every day, and when I look out my studio window I can also see the train go by!"

(By the way, Janet and Janice are twins!!!!)

Shoppers, get your holiday gifts this season with Shop Local and meet your talented neighbors (shrink that carbon footprint too)! Find sellers belonging to local Quebec Etsy Team: Team Etsy Q.

Shop Local Posts | Gift Ideas | Shop Local in Your Area

Please let Etsy's blog know about your favorite local Etsy artists. Pitch your town, state, country or region.