Quirky'nBerkeley

Why is my blog always the last thing I do?

2012-01-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I haven't been here since November, but the holidays were busy and things are just settling down. Twink, the Monster Kitten has been sick and required care, and our printer died just before New Year's. Then there was the month-long cold that both I and my DH acquired from some mysterious source that drained all remaining energy. I also took on some contract work that is a lot of fun, and competes with my card-making time. On the Stampin' Up! front, I've had my monthly workshops on the second Saturday of each month, and I did a couple of swaps with other Stampin' Up! demonstrators to celebrate the new Occasions mini and the arrival of Sale-a-Bration. If you're curious about either, just post a comment with your email and I'll save the details for that.And now on for the fun part -- pictures of some of the cards I've been making. I put some of them in my Etsy shop.

This card is based on the design of another SU demo whose name I've lost. Should be more careful.

This card is based on a design by Ilina Crouse.

This card is a CASE of another made by Sandy Mathis.

This card is a CASE of one made by the fabulous Mary Fish.

This card is based on a design by Diana Carr.

The True Cost of Handmade

2011-11-21T09:05:00.001-08:00

Great blog post this morning on the true cost of handmade from blogger Somer Sherwood. Amazing math!

Simple opulence birthday card

2011-10-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

I've used Stampin' Up's Mocha Morning designer series paper to fashion the paper frame on this card. It's one of my favorites and I had a hard time giving it up to my Etsy shop. So I just made another one to keep. The frame is a sort of origami, and is one of my favorite techniques.

Here's what it looks like with a completely different color scheme

Just click on the photos to go to my Etsy shop.

Two days in a row???

2011-08-26T10:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I finished up the last of my 12x12 designer sheet and decided to make individual cards rather than another set. With the new Etsy stats available for my shop, I've learned that people are eager to find retirement cards. I finally made one.

With my own first wedding anniversary coming up, I guess anniversary cards were just on my mind, so something simple that can go to a couple or to a man or a woman ...

Then I realized I hadn't made any baby cards all year long. I thought this one was very sweet, and could be used for a girl or a boy.

And last but not least, a card for a new Mr. & Mrs.

As always, if you want to know more about the cards, just click on the photo! Have a great weekend!

One Sheet Wonders and Writer's Block

2011-08-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

Let's face it -- I'm a sporadic blogger.

But for those of you who do make it by, I thought I'd post a little bit about what I've been working on. It's a part of Stampin' Up! culture and it's called a One Sheet Wonder. The idea is that you take one sheet of 12x12 patterned paper -- or Designer Series Paper (DSP) in Stampin' Up! lingo -- and cut it into something like 16 assorted rectangles and squares (I used a template by Jennifer Taylor which you can find here) and then make it into cards. This approach is powerful, since many card artists will tell you that one of the hardest things they have to do in their work is make the first cut into a gorgeous 12x12 sheet of designer paper. It can be like writer's block in a way -- that blank (or in this case, printed) page staring back at you waiting to be turned into something -- with the potential, in the right hands, to become wonderful.

Some people try to make all 16 cards in one hour, but I try to design each card one by one as a unique art piece rather than make as many cards as I can in as short a time as I can, which is a challenge of another sort.

So far, I've made three sets of three cards each using a retired DSP called Botanical Gazette. The paper I chose has olive green butterflies and moths on a dotted green background.

Here's what I've done so far -- hope you enjoy the cards, and maybe decide to try your own One Sheet Wonder challenge. To visit my Etsy shops and find out more about the cards, just click on any of the photos. Thanks!

Birthday Card Set

Thinking of You Card Set

Friendship Card Set

Please turn to page 47...

2011-07-22T15:35:00.001-07:00

I got a note that I was included in this fabulous treasury -- I like it so much I wanted to share it with you

Ruby Bee featured me!!!

2011-05-08T11:05:00.001-07:00

She wrote a great blog article about my two shops -- here's the link!

Time flies...

2011-05-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

Talk about a neglected blog!

I became a Stampin' Up! demonstrator in January, and have been really busy creating lots of new cards, both to show my customers new techniques and to sell in my Etsy shop. I love the quality of the products I've found there, and especially am enjoying the brilliantly colored card stock.

Here's a few for your viewing pleasure --

In the intervening period, I have also opened a new Etsy shop, TeenyTinyEnvelopes. Here are some of my favorites

Etsy Bloggers shop of the month: Pruitt Handcrafts

2010-12-11T09:04:00.000-08:00

I was browsing through Pruitt Handcrafts and came across this magnificent quilt. The colors are so refreshing.

Linda also runs Pruitt Design and Pruitt Supply. In the first you'll find lovely jewelry, like this pair of exotic teal flower earrings. And she offers free shipping -- all the time!

So go by and browse! You might find your holiday shopping finished faster than you expected!

Hurray, I have a new camera

2010-12-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

My darling Mr. Quirky gave me a new Canon PowerShot SD4500is for my birthday this year. I've been spending the day re-shooting pictures from my Etsy shop. I can't tell you how much improvement I see already in color and detail. My old Olympus was ten years old, and those new megapixels make all the difference in the world. Here are a few examples for your perusal:

Blog carnival: What inspires you?

2010-11-14T10:04:00.000-08:00

I'm a lucky crafter -- I get inspired by the materials and tools that I use. I get to pick out bright, colorful, pretty things to turn into other pretty things. Here are some examples of the materials I've been working with this week, and which I'll be listing during the coming week:

Etsy Blogger Shop of the Month: Devine Designs Jewelry

2010-11-13T09:13:00.000-08:00

Devine Designs Jewelry is one shop you shouldn't miss if you love jewelry. Just take a look at this gorgeous bracelet, made of turquoise and fluorite. This shop has been around since April, 2008, and is based out of Tampa Bay. She offers gift certificates, too.

Teeny tiny miniature Goth envelopes

2010-11-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been a while since I blogged -- but I've been busy with being a newlywed and with making lots of custom teeny tinies -- mostly for weddings. This week I tried my hand at something a little different -- the hot and trendy chandeliers.

I also found some very cool flocked spider paper, too.

Just click on the link to go and take a visit. I'll be re-building my inventory, so stay tuned for lots of new teeny tiny envelopes.

Autumn days

2010-10-03T10:34:00.000-07:00

I'm part of the Etsy Bloggers team, and we have a "blog carnival" where someone poses a theme, and then all of us respond to it in our blogs. This month the theme is things we like to do in autumn. I don't have special rituals, partly, probably, because I don't have children in the house to celebrate Halloween. But there's an art and wine festival me and my new DH like to go to, and it's also a great time to garden. I like to separate bulbs and replant them, and put in new bulbs just waiting through winter for spring. I'll see if I can find some photos to show you what my garden will have in it in the spring.

Well, that didn't work too well. But I'll have agapanthus and daffodils, and it will be marvelous.

Splendid Little Stars on Etsy

2010-10-03T10:21:00.000-07:00

This little shop has some amazing tie-dye t-shirts as well as this charming jack-o-lantern shirt. Stop by and visit.

We made it!

2010-10-03T10:20:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm a married lady now. And I made my 100-mini-envelope goal before the wedding. It's generated lots of custom orders but not left a lot of time for creating new things. Maybe after I get the garage cleaned out...

Fly by

2010-09-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

The days are flying by. Today we go get our marriage license. In the meantime, I'm working hard to make it to my goal of 100 mini envelope sets in my Etsy shop before my wedding. Think I'm gonna make it. Here's what's gone online this week:

A whole week?

2010-08-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's been a whole week since I last posted here. And I'm still gonna do a post and run. We've had car troubles, we've had microwave oven troubles, but most of all, we've been getting ready for the big day -- less than two weeks now 'til we're Mr. & Mrs. In the meantime, here's what else I've been working on:

Teeny tiny miniature envelope marathon: Up to #84

2010-08-23T17:08:00.000-07:00

Well, it was a busy weekend. My car broke down -- the clutch cable snapped about a mile from home. We went to pick up my wedding ring for the fourth time, and it still wasn't ready. Sigh. However, I have been a listing fool, and have lots of new teeny tinies to show you:

Aren't these just the cutest little monkeys you've ever seen?

And I fell in love with this pretty daisy card stock.

And this beautiful card stock made lovely envelopes, great for a wedding (not that I have that on my mind or anything)

And finally, today's late afternoon listing:

As usual, you can click on any of the images to visit my shop or learn more details about these latest offerings.

#81 and #82

2010-08-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Nearing the finish line with one very cute and one very delicate design. I love them both, but #82 has the prettiest paper I've ever seen. Judge for yourself.

Today I'm picking up my wedding dress. Only 23 days to go.

Only 10 days away? #79 and #80

2010-08-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

Just to bring you up to date, I've entered myself in a one-person 100 mini envelope marathon. The goal is to have 100 sets of mini envelopes listed in my shop before I return to card making after my upcoming wedding. I've found so many cute papers to use with lots of different themes, and have lots of holiday envelopes already in my shop. But today, I'll just show you the two latest I've listed on Etsy.

#79: Beautiful blue Asian style ocean waves

#80: Lots of shoes

#76, #77 and cutest of all, #78

2010-08-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

I skipped a day of blogging, but I didn't skip a day of listing new teeny tiny envelopes on Etsy.

FIrst is #76 in my 100 mini envelope marathon -- these lovely and very trendy peacock feather envelopes in teal and purple

Next, #77, has a stylized butterfly design in orange and white on purple

And last, and perhaps cutest of all, is #78, decorated by pink grinning Cheshire cats and tiny little mad hatters

If you want more detail, or want to visit my shop, just click on one of the photos! Thanks for coming by today.

Butterflies are free except when they're on envelopes

2010-08-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

Today, I posted #75 in my 100 mini envelope marathon. I figured everyone would love butterflies.

Summertime reading

2010-08-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

Every month, EtsyBloggers have a blog carnival. It seems that there's a topic or two each month about which we all blog. Pretty fun stuff. One of the topics this month was books we read over the summer. Well, my summer's been filled with wedding planning, and most of my reading has been related to that -- it's only four weeks away. I didn't have a favorite book, but I did find the latest one I read to be very helpful: it's I Do! I Do!: The Marriage Vow Workbook, designed to help me create inspiring marriage vows that will sustain my marriage now and in years to come. I got it on Amazon. Hopefully, it will help me do exactly what it say. Thanks for stopping by!

Patch: EtsyBloggers Featured August Seller

2010-08-15T11:56:00.001-07:00

This month, I renewed my membership in the EtsyBloggers team. Every month we feature a team member on our blogs. This month, our featured member is Patch, who has three Etsy shops, one for her jewelry creations, one for vintage, and one for supplies.

Since I'm still new at this, I'm just going to show you some of my favorites among her listings:

FIrst, I just love these beautiful origami flowers from her supply shop

She also makes gorgeous jewelry, like these peridot earrings

And you can find wonderful vintage items from Thailand like this lovely matador jacket

Just click on any of the photos for more details or to visit her shop!

#73 and #74 Vintage-look and oceans blue

2010-08-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

#73 is sweet and feminine, perfect for bridal shower favors

#74 would be perfect for someone who is an ocean love like me

Just click on the photo to visit my shop or to get more details.

#71 and #72 blue and pink, teeny and tiny

2010-08-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I listed these beautiful teal envelopes that measure just 1.25x1.25

and this morning I listed these vintage look envelopes

Last night I found out that I'm the newest member of Etsy bloggers, so keep an eye out here for some new and interesting shops to visit. And as always, if you'd like to see more about these envelopes, just click on the photo above. Thanks for visiting.

#70 and a beauty

2010-08-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

These teeny tiny miniature square envelopes are made with some beautiful butterfly- and flower-patterned paper that has just a hint of glitter. Just click on the photo to get more details or to visit my Etsy shop.

#68 and #69 Christmas and tiny-ness

2010-08-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

This marathon of envelope-making has been a lot of fun. Last night I broke into my most favorite papers and will have a lot of new theme-related envelopes that I can hardly wait to show you in the next few days -- monkeys, zebras, measuring tapes, butterflies and more. Today, however, I listed a new set of Christmas envelopes in magenta etched with silver

and some more of the teeniest imaginable envelopes in a beautiful green swirly card stock, weighing in at a mere 1.25 inches square. As always, you can click on the photos to get more detail or to visit my Etsy shop.

I had high hopes that I would find a new scrapbook store over on this side of the Caldecott Tunnel -- I love exploring my new home -- but like many other scrapbook stores, it's closed now. That means, however, that I get to keep going to Scrapbook Territory in Berkeley for my paper-buying excursions. And that means a chance to eat my favorite apple salad at Fatapples.

See you tomorrow.

#66 In the pink

2010-08-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

Feeling in the pink today with this new listing -- these teeny tiny miniature square envelopes are adorned with stylized pink Christmas trees. Charming. Just click on the photo above to go to my Etsy shop for more details or to purchase these.

#63 & #64 Vintage roses and Christmas trees

2010-08-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

All the advice I've heard on Etsy is to list a couple of times a day. And with the wedding only 34 days away, that seems like the best way to reach my 100 mini envelope listings by then.

I listed these pretty vintage rose envelopes last night

and these cute little Christmas tree envelopes this morning.

Just click on the photos for more details or to visit my shop. And have a lovely day!

#62 all over again - delicate Christmas tree scrollwork

2010-08-08T10:57:00.001-07:00

This is some of my favorite Christmas paper, and it made up charming little envelopes. Click on the photo above to find out more about them.

On another note, Mr. Quirk and I went to see Inception last night. Started out hating it, enjoyed it immensely by the end of the film. Highly recommended.

Moving right along: #61 and #62

2010-08-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Today I listed two new sets of teeny tiny envelopes -- one sleek and sophisticated, the other quaint and vintage-look. Just click on the photo to learn more!

#59 New York City street sign envelopes

2010-08-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

I liked this paper so much I couldn't wait to make little envelopes with them. And they turned out mighty cute. I'm thinking they'd be a great way to commemorate a summer trip to New York -- a perfect place to store ticket stubes and memorabilia. They'd make a great bon voyage gift, a nice surprise for a transplanted New Yorker. The possibilities are endless. Just click on the photo to find out more about them or to make a purchase.

#58 Pink and black stripe envelopes

2010-08-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

This slightly sophisticated color combination lends itself to many uses, for the winter holidays or during the year. They measure 2.25x2.25 inches, and come in a set of 18. Click on the photo above to visit my shop or to learn more about the envelopes.

Happy Halloween?

2010-08-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

As the summer days grow a little bit shorter and the morning air carries a chill in it, we all feel the stirrings of autumn in our blood. Halloween is just around the corner, and here's a pretty card to send to someone who just LOVES that holiday. Just click on the photo above to find out more about it.

#57 Festive red and magenta Christmas stripes

2010-08-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

What a good morning it is today! Last night Mr. Quirky and I went to see Machomer for a nice mid-week break.

Today I'm offering #57 in my 100 mini envelope challenge -- simple red and magenta striped festive Christmas envelopes for a very modern Christmas feel during your holiday celebrations. Just click on the photo above to visit my shop and learn more.

#56 and #57 Argyle and stripes for Christmas

2010-08-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday evening I made up a new style of envelope -- 2x3 inch rectangle. They're made in Christmas stripes, and come with a blank note.

This morning, I'm introducing cheery argyle square envelopes. It's been a busy 24 hours, but I'm getting closer to my goal of having 100 sets of envelopes listed in my shop. Can't wait to show you what I've got in store next.

#55 Teeny tiny snowmen

2010-08-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, I know the temperature outside is still hovering around the high double-digits, but did you know that Christmas is only 143 days away? These charming little envelopes can serve a multitude of purposes -- place cards, gift tags, promotional thank you notes to clients, party favors. They come with a folded white note inside, so you can write your own message. To find out more about them, just click on the photo above.

Oh, and the #55? I'm on a mission -- one new listing of teeny tiny envelopes a day until I have 100 listings in my shop (or until my wedding)...

#55 Wonky spotted teeny tiny miniature square envelopes

2010-08-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

These spotted envelopes are only for the seriously playful person. They're lots of fun and very colorful. And they come with FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING.

Why #55? I'm having a self-imposed challenge: Have 100 sets of teeny tiny envelopes listed in my shop. Don't think I'm going to make it before my wedding, though.

Oh, yeah -- if you'd like to know more about these envelopes or visit my shop, just click on the photo above and it will take you there. Thanks for coming by today!

#55 Deck the halls mini envelopes and FOUR YEARS ON ETSY

2010-08-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

Well, the Christmas in July promotion is over, but I've decided to extend WORLDWIDE FREE SHIPPING through the month of August to celebrate my four years on Etsy. I've made a lot of new friends during that time, many of them have become old friends. They've supported me in hard times, cheered me in good times, and offered advice and counsel when asked. I love my teammates. Thanks to all of you.

Anyway, today's offering in the 100 miniature envelope challenge is Christmas-themed, with Deck the Halls written in red and green on a white background. Just click on the photo above to find out more about them and to visit my Etsy shop.

#54 Pretty poinsettias

2010-07-31T10:47:00.001-07:00

Well, this is the last day of my Christmas in July promotion, which has been free worldwide shipping. What more festive way to celebrate can there be but seasonal flowers. Let these poinsettia envelopes bloom under your Christmas tree or on your Christmas table with a special wish for each guest. Click on the photo above to learn more about these teeny tiny envelopes.

#53 Green and pink envelopes for all occasions

2010-07-30T09:06:00.001-07:00

These teeny tiny square envelopes are bright and perky and would be a lovely party favor at a garden tea or for a little girl's birthday party. They would also work well as a gift tag for a Christmas gift.

#52 - the sixth #52 Teeny tiny Christmas wreath envelopes

2010-07-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

Today I have more stripes to offer, but these have little tiny wreaths running across them. The colors are bright and very modern.

I've got quite a few more Christmas envelopes to list yet, and then I get to start with some of the new papers I've been buying, as well as some of the new envelope shapes. I'm going to be making business-card size envelopes in lovely patterns and textured solids. I may start cutting them today!

A winner!! #500

2010-07-28T18:33:00.001-07:00

I know there's a lot of numbers floating around my blog lately, but this is a big one! LocalColorist bought the 500th item from my shop, and will be the winner of the free teeny tiny envelopes!

#52 Redux -- Classic Christmas stripes

2010-07-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Things have been going well with the CHRISTMAS IN JULY promotion -- free worldwide shipping -- and my little envelopes have made their way to quite a few new homes. In fact, it's put me on the cusp of 500 sales. And the 500th purchase earns a free set of envelopes of their choosing in celebration! That plus free shipping!

Today's offering is a set of bright, cheery Christmas stripes in lime green and red -- classic but playful. These would be great as place cards, gift tags, or party favors. Or if you're planning a December wedding, they'd work great as wedding favors. Just click on the photo above to learn more about them or to visit my Etsy shop.

Oh, and the #52? I'm listing a new set of envelopes every day until I have 100 sets of envelopes in my shop (or until my wedding day). After that, I will start a new challenge. Stay tuned to see what's next!

#52 Cheery Christmas tree envelopes

2010-07-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

I'm really having fun with my CHRISTMAS IN JULY promotion, and enjoy sending out these teeny tiny envelopes to the four corners of the globe. Lots of people who buy them use them as free gifts or thank you notes in their Etsy shops, so they travel even further.

Today's offering is very green, decorated with cheery little Christmas trees. Some of my favorite paper in this series. Click on the photo above to find out more about them or to visit my Etsy shop.

#53 More Christmas stripes today

2010-07-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

These teeny tiny envelopes havesome Christmas-sy red and green in them, but they're also filled with other rich, warm colors -- brown, yellow, aqua. I think they'd be great for back to school or other autumn uses, too. Just click on the photo to visit the listing in my Etsy shop.

#52 Christmas-striped snowflake envelopes

2010-07-25T09:30:00.001-07:00

There's lots of red and green in my studio right now, and it's amazing that you can find such an array of patterns using those two colors. Working with all these Christmas patterns reminds me that it's not that long before holiday shopping becomes a major endeavor.

#51 Happy holidays teeny tiny miniature square envelopes

2010-07-24T10:03:00.000-07:00

Today's entry into my 100 mini envelope mega challenge is a complement to yesterday's entry -- it's got the same delicate scrollwork, but has small orange banners that read "happy holidays" -- totally charming and very pretty. Just click on the photo above to read more about them and my CHRISTMAS IN JULY FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING promotion (which runs through the end of July).

#53 Delicate holiday scrollwork

2010-07-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

Today's envelopes are made of some very pretty paper -- some of my favorite out of this collection. It features delicate black scrollwork -- a little bit like Christmas trees -- with accents of red and green. You can click on the photo above to visit my Etsy store and read more about them.

And don't forget to enter my give away -- the drawing will be held tomorrow and the lucky winner gets his/her choice of any teeny tiny envelope set in my shop!

#52 Pretty teal plaids

2010-07-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

These pretty teal and sky blue plaid teeny tiny miniature square envelopes would work for the holidays or for any occasion calling for something cheerful and bright. They would be a perfect place to put secret lunch box notes for students or someone special -- sure to brighten their day. And during my 2010 Christmas in July sale, there's free worldwide shipping on them.

If you haven't entered my give away, there's still a few days to go. Just go to this linkfor details, and comment with your own ideas about how these envelopes, or any of the others in my Etsy shop, could be used.

#51 Gorgeous polka dots

2010-07-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Polka dots are a perennial favorite, and these little envelopes are real gems -- some of my favorites. Bright red and soft blue dots sit against a pine green background. Click on the photo above for more information or to visit my Etsy shop. And don't forget to enter my blog give away -- you could win these or any other teeny tiny envelopes in my shop by entering. Here's the link to the give away.

#49 Two steps forward...

2010-07-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today we're back to #49 -- a good thing because it means that some of my teeny tinies are on their way around the world. These teeny tinies have holiday words printed on them. They're in Christmas colors -- red, gold and green, and the words are very Christmas-sy, although they say Happy Holidays. Put one at each place setting instead of place cards on your Christmas dinner table and include a little note for each guest! To read more about this set of teeny tiny envelopes, just click on the photo above. And don't forget to enter my teeny tiny give away -- you could win your choice of teeny tiny envelopes from my shop! Just go back a few days to Saturday's blog post (July 17). Also, remember that you get FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING on teeny tinies during the month of July!

#52 Classic and classy Christmas striped mini envelopes

2010-07-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

These teeny tiny Christmas striped envelopes would brighten any package under the tree. Better than standard gift tags because they leave you room to write a little message to the recipient. There are a thousand other uses for them, just look at my blog post from two days ago and enter my give-away by listing your own idea about how to use them. Or click on the photo to visit my shop.

#51 Teeny tiny Christmas tree envelopes

2010-07-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

Now, in the heat of summer, is the time to save on Christmas shopping. Here's #51 in my 100 mini envelope challenge. As I made these, I realized how quickly the holidays will be upon us, and what a rush it is to get everything ready. But I also enjoy the different symbols of the winter holidays, and like the playfulness of these little trees. Anyway, to read more about these miniature envelopes, visit my Etsy shop by clicking on the photo above. And don't forget to enter my giveaway by reading yesterday's blog post!

#50 Half-way there and time for a give-away

2010-07-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

Today's feature is teeny tiny miniature square snowflake envelopes, my second offering for the winter holidays.

To celebrate being half-way to the end of my 100 envelope challenge, I'm having a giveaway. The prize is any set of teeny tiny envelopes you choose in my shop. Here's what you need to do to enter:

Read the descriptions and tags in a few of the listings, and come up with a new use for my teeny tiny envelopes. Then just put it in your comments along with your email address so I can reach you to tell you if you've won! Thanks for helping me out!

#49 Teeny tiny miniature square CHRISTMAS envelopes

2010-07-16T08:52:00.001-07:00

We've finally gotten to my Christmas stock. I've been working away in my studio for days, buried under Christmas-themed and -colored papers in preparation for the annual Etsy Christmas in July sale. So I'm excited to offer these pretty blue paper envelopes with white script and swirls. And tomorrow I'll begin posting about my giveaway here, so stay tuned. In the meantime, enjoy FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE during the month of July. Click on the photo above to go to my Etsy shop and learn the details.

#48 Pink gingham teeny tiny envelopes

2010-07-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

Oh, these are sweet! They would be wonderful favors at a baby shower, I'm thinking. Or at a bridal shower -- I'm having one this Sunday, and I'm very excited! (Just thought I would share.) If you want to know more about these teeny tiny envelopes, just click on the picture to visit my Etsy shop! Thanks for stopping by!

And keep those ideas about how to use these darlings flowing -- the giveaway starts in just two days or at #50!

#47 Beautiful teal blue -- or is it green?

2010-07-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

These little lovelies come in a solid and two patterns, and I think they're absolutely darling. Only 53 to go in my challenge, and I have some great surprised in store. Thanks for coming by, and be sure and start thinking about uses for these little guys so you can enter my giveaway, coming in just a few days!

#45 Reminds me of balloons

2010-07-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

Today, ladies and gentlemen, we draw one step closer to the end of the challenge with the introduction of my red bubble teeny tiny envelopes. Of course there are stripes, too, but one pattern reminds me of a cluster of balloons floating in the sky. We're also one step closer to my give-away.

#44 Back to school browns and oranges

2010-07-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

Today's offering is brought to you with no thanks to Twink the helpful cat lying on my right arm. It's a medley of brown, orange and aqua, with both solids and print patterns. All come with notes tucked inside, ready for you to write a message of your own.

And stay tuned for the upcoming giveaway. Start thinking of new uses for my teeny tiny envelopes to enter.

#42 and #43 we're moving toward a give-away

2010-07-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

#42 and #43 in the 100 envelope challenge are very different. They're different sizes, different materials, different designs. But that's just a sample of what teeny tiny envelopes are about. Click on either picture to visit my Etsy shop.

Without further ado, here's #42, teeny tiny jewel toned envelopes measuring 1.25x1.25 (my best seller)

and #43, measuring 2.25x2.25

After the Christmas in July envelopes get posted, I will be adding two more designs -- both rectangular. And you never know what they'll be made of -- I'm having a great time going through my favorite papers and turning them into envelopes for you.

And the give-away: to enter, just leave a comment on my blog suggesting new ways these envelopes can be used that I haven't listed in my descriptions. It'll start the day I list #50.

And here's #41 in oranges and browns

2010-07-10T10:03:00.001-07:00

These envelopes remind me of autumn and back to school, which, unfortunately or not, is just around the corner. There's 18 of them in two floral prints and one stripe. In the meantime, I'm back to work on my Christmas in July entries. Have a great day!

Oh, one other thing: I'm planning on having a give-away beginning on the day I list my 50th set of teeny tinies. To enter, you will need to comment and tell me a new thing to do with teeny tinies. That's all! Carry on!

#40 (again) Charcoal

2010-07-09T10:00:00.001-07:00

Today's set is very sophisticated in charcoal grey, I think. One paper is solid, the other has curvaceous swirls running through it.

#41 Set in red

2010-07-08T09:03:00.000-07:00

Time for something cheerful, and these red envelopes will do just fine, I think. There's 18 of them in a coordinated set, with six each of three papers. They were fun to make and will be fun to use. Just click on the photo to visit them in my shop! Have a great day!

I'm off to work on Christmas in July goodies.

My studio: Making teeny tiny envelopes

2010-07-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

I'm in the process of making some teeny tiny envelopes in winter patters so that I can participate in the Christmas in July event that Etsy has now sponsored for three years. I thought that you might like to see what it looks like in my studio when I'm getting ready to make teeny tiny envelopes, so I took some pictures of my workspace.

Flowers from Burt, a.k.a. Mr. Quirk

Still-packed results of my last visit to Scrapbook Territory

My favorite studio chair -- I love to spin around in it

There is one big stack of paper on the floor, in addition to a whole wall full -- you'll see in a minute

My work corner. I have the whole room, but this is where I work.

Small stacks of paper that have been cut down, ready to be turned into teeny tiny envelopes.

I'm in the process of making some teeny tiny envelopes in winter patters so that I can participate in the Christmas in July event that Etsy has now sponsored for three years. I thought that you might like to see what it looks like in my studio when I'm getting ready to make teeny tiny envelopes, so I took some pictures of my workspace.

#40 Pretty purple plaids and stripes and some more butterflies

2010-07-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

Today's entry in my 100 envelope challenge is made of deep purple tones and features both plaid and striped papers to complement the solid. I'm debating whether I should leave the notes plain white or decorate them with a stamped image in a matching ink -- heaven knows I've got plenty of ink colors and stamps. If you happen by here, I'd love to have your opinions on the subject.

And here's some pretty new checkered gingham butterflies I listed this morning!

#38 Take me out to the circus teeny tiny miniature square envelopes

2010-07-06T09:20:00.001-07:00

Today's envelopes have a certain cheer to them -- the colors are bright, the lines in the patterns remind me of a circus awning and the three rings where all the action takes place. There are 18 of them -- six in each pattern. I think they're useful for many things, among them scrapbook journaling, love notes, lunch box notes or gifts in their own right. They're also good for tooth fairies and stocking stuffers.

Last night I took all the scraps I've gathered from making teeny tiny envelopes during this challenge and punched out several hundred butterflies, my form of upcycling. They're also for sale in my shop.

#36 Chartreuse in July teeny tiny envelopes

2010-07-05T08:54:00.001-07:00

Well, I had the good fortune to send some of my teeny tiny envelopes on their way to a lovely woman in Michigan who is using them for her Halloween wedding. I did manage to find one more set of Halloween envelopes, though. And believe it or not, they're chartreuse, just like the new set I'm offering today. I made it all the way to #40, but now I'm resetting to #36 and #37. And here they are!

Oh, and I thought of two other ways to use teeny tiny envelopes. They make great stocking stuffers -- we're going to put some in the travel bags we bought for our wedding attendants, along with some pretty toiletries. But I also think that tooth fairies everywhere would find them fun to use when they stick a quarter or a dollar -- or whatever the going rate is -- under tiny heads at night.

See ya tomorrow. And thanks for looking!

#40 The prettiest set yet

2010-07-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about my teeny tiny envelope challenge? I'm going to list a new set of teeny tiny envelopes every day in my Etsy shop until I have a hundred listed. Since I sold some yesterday, I'm not really at 40 right now, but it would be confusing to do this any other way. Anyway, here's set #40, which is made of paper, and I think they're some very pretty papers.

Basically, my teeny tiny envelopes come in different varieties -- some are made of paper, some are made of cardstock. Some of the cardstock is double-sided, which means it's printed on both sides. Some of it is just white on the back. Some of the cardstock is textured, which makes for lovely teeny tinies. Some of them are 1.25x1.25 inches with rounded flaps -- very tiny, and some are 2.25x2.25. Both sizes are die cut using different methods. I have a third type which I haven't introduced into my shop yet, so stay tuned for something different to make an appearance. Oh, and the flap of the larger envelopes can be gummed on request (I have special glue that you can lick to seal the envelope).

So thanks for following along and supporting this little self-imposed challenge to revitalize my shop, and thanks for coming by for a visit.

#39 Red swirl teeny tiny miniature square envelopes

2010-07-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

Well, the challenge is moving along. Here's #39. Thanks for coming back to take a gander. Now I'm off to clean up the remains of last night's chicken adobo dinner (the recipe is from the Williams-Sonoma slow cooker cook book, and it rocks -- it's also very easy)

#38 These may be the prettiest yet

2010-07-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

These papers are perfectly cheerful. It brightened my day just to be cutting and pasting them. I present them for your viewing pleasure. Only 62 more to go!

#37 Teeny tiny in plaid

2010-07-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

Today has been hectic, with various phone calls about the wedding and just life in general. But I wanted to post today's entry in my 100 envelope challenge.

#36 Coral and chocolate sampler pack

2010-06-30T09:49:00.001-07:00

This fun pack features two solids and four patterns, with six of each paper. They're bright and cheery, and well coordinated.

#35 Aqua and chocolate teeny tiny envelopes

2010-06-30T09:35:00.001-07:00

I thought these papers were especially well coordinated and decided to make a set of them. I'm only 65 sets away from my goal of having 100 sets of these in my Etsy shop.

#34 Polka dots, stripes and flowers

2010-06-29T20:26:00.000-07:00

I have one more post for tonight -- one more set of teeny tinies to share with you. These are in coordinated papers of aqua and chocolate. Enjoy!

#33 Beautiful teal teeny tiny envelopes

2010-06-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

These teeny tinies are made out of scrapbook paper that I bought at a giant Michael's sale. Like all of my teeny tinies, they come with a note tucked inside where you can write any message that comes to mind.

#32 Red White and Blue Teeny Tiny Envelopes

2010-06-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, I thought I'd make these just for the occasion.

#31 French-inspired, redux, with green

2010-06-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

As you might be able to tell if you compare yesterday's post to today's, I think this paper makes up into very pretty envelopes. Today I'm featuring the 1.25x1.25 inch style, which has been a big seller in my store.

#30 French inspiration

2010-06-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

I am at #30 in my 100 teeny tiny envelope set challenge. These teeny tiny miniature square envelopes are green with red and white accents. Very sophisticated, and quite lovely.

100 sets of teeny tiny envelopes

2010-06-27T10:29:00.001-07:00

What can I say? I enjoy making them! My new goal is to have 100 sets of different teeny tiny envelopes in my shop, one set per day. Here's what I made today. I currently have 27 sets, that means I've got 73 to go. And that means I'll have attained my goal just days before my wedding.

And I re-shot these on a black background. I think they show up better than on a white one.

Teeny tiny square bridal envelopes

2010-06-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

Today I made up these charming little bridal envelopes. I guess I've just got weddings on mind these days, but it seemed like these would be perfect for enclosing with a wedding attendant gift. I also made up some butterflies to go with them. Enjoy!

Relisting madness

2010-06-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I had great intentions, but nature had other ideas. Today was a take-care-of-yourself kind of day. So was yesterday. So I settled for relisting some items that I've already made. Thought I'd share them with you. My all time favorite jewel tone teeny tiny envelopes.

Oh, and by the way, Etsy is five years old. Lots of changes over time. And I heard that the marvelous Loosewire of Loosewire Studios has become an Etsy admin.

Glimmery, shimmery, opalescent

2010-06-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

In a burst of enthusiasm, I am trying to make something new every day. Today I made these teeny tiny envelopes out of the most beautiful cardstock -- they come in three colors: green, silver and ivory. I'm very pleased with how they turned out. And I'm in the frame of mind to think of things in terms of weddings -- these would be great little tags to use to with wedding favors. Click on the photo to see the listing on Etsy.

Give-away from Allie's Adornments

2010-06-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

Here's a chance to win a beautiful piece of jewelry from Allie's Adornments. Just visit this blog and follow the directions. But do it by June 17!!

Miniature envelopes and butterflies

2010-06-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

My Etsy and 1000market shops have been mostly dormant for nearly a year -- since I met my fiance. Our wedding is mostly planned and I'm hoping to be an active seller once again. I've started with some new teeny tiny envelopes and with some new butterfly diecuts.

Bravo! Front page for a little while

2010-06-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

This card made it to Etsy's front page a few weeks ago, thanks to curator luchi. Here's a link to her treasury.

Wall of Hope

2009-07-29T20:54:00.001-07:00

I read about a greeting card project on a blog post by one of my Etsy Greetings team mates, wimzieprints. Thought I'd share it with you. Just click here.

Etsy Twitter Shop of the Week - L'elephant Rose

2009-04-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sherisa Vassel, of L'élephantRose.etsy.com creates jewelry and hair accessories for women to feel gorgeous in. Filled with a rich palette of color, her shop has many unique items. Her earring designs bring out the curves of a woman’s face and cheekbones.

Sherisa herself is a rich palette of interests and histories: Temple University alumna; lover of color, music, laughter, nature, warmth, her man; writer; jewelry and accessories designer; mother of a duckling; and daydreamer extraordinaire.

“Major life influences: stories from my childhood, French, my wild imagination. I'm heavily influenced by the past. And very intrigued by what lays ahead in the future. I try to find a point to balance in between it all.

One thing I think is paramount is that I take great care in attention to detail when making anything. It is a blessing to be able to follow a dream through and I attempt to pass that blessing on through my work. I care deeply about what I make.

L'élephant Rose is for the bold woman. Those not afraid to exude confidence. The woman who understands that they define their sensuality. We are effortlessly cool. Dare to be bold! Adorn yourself accordingly.”
I encourage you to accept her challenge to see yourself as bold, confident, and sensual. Maybe some new jewelry would help! I know this cute little shop that’s just the place.

Free shipping on any US domestic orders and 50% off international shipping on orders placed this week. Use code “ETT” in message to seller to redeem.

Etsy Twitter Shop of the Week - Curious Mess

2009-04-06T09:37:00.000-07:00

Read more here about curiousmess.etsy.com and her gorgeous fabric bowls.

I don't do mornings

2009-02-13T10:36:00.001-08:00

I had some time to make cards last night. Here is my favorite. It's handstamped with two different stamps. I'll post the others later.

Etsy Beagle Team is having a contest

2009-02-11T20:03:00.001-08:00

They've got an awesome pendant as a prize. Go to their blog for the details on how to enter and WIN.

Selling onlilne

2009-02-09T22:10:00.000-08:00

I've added a third shop over on ArtFire and am slowly populatiing it. Three shops is a lot to handle since every venue has a different social and graphical structure. I am so spoiled by being a part of both the CCCOE and EtsyIrish forum threads where we know each other well. There's nothing comparably active that I've found on either ArtFire or 1000Markets, although ArtFire's chat function might be more dynamic...

On another note, I was looking through the hearts on my Etsy shop tonight and discovered a new seller. One of the things I like about selling online is that you've got all sorts of regional marketplaces all subsumed in this international venue. The midwestern crafter in the U.S. side by side with someone in Thailand or Sinagpore. New York and Minnesota, California and Tennessee, Louisiana and Ohio. Different crafts, different trends, different histories, different stories. All ages, men and women, children, collectors, crafters, craftspeople and artists, pragmatic and profane.

This week

2009-02-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

This was a big week for my shop. I made several series of cards, which are sampled above; I bought my first ad on craftcult.com, and the CCCOE handmadeincalifornia gift guide went live, where I have both a listing and an ad. I also joined the EtsyTwitter Team, have been using Google Analytics, and uploaded my shop to Google Base using LetsEts to format the .xml file. I tried Twitter Magpie and junked it, preferring my own Twitter postings to using the site just for ads or promotion.

Another thing I did that was kind of fun was have a great 15-minute sale (any five cards for $10), which I announced on my team threads and on Twitter. Maybe next time I'll list it in the promotions section of the Etsy Forums. I might even do that tonight just to see what kind of results I get.

I also made my first two sales in my 1000 markets shop -- very exciting. And I went through and changed the exposure on 150 photos and then reloaded them to both my Etsy site and my 1000markets shop. I cleaned up my Flickr site, too. And I found out that I have been on a few front pages recently. The next thing I'd lilke to start doing is blog interviews again -- that was fun and it's exciting to learn about and promote other people's shops.

I got blogged today

2009-02-06T10:59:00.000-08:00

GEDesigns blogged about my teeny tiny Cupid envelopes today. Be sure and take a look at her wonderful custom valentines!

The gift guide has launched

2009-02-03T19:40:00.000-08:00

The incredibly talented CraftyWren, a.k.a Shop Whimsy is the graphic designer who put this amazing site together. She has an able crew of CCCOE members who are also working on a constant basis to write up Spotlight articles (OhMay Designs) or curate the collections on the front page (ButtercupBloom). You can find the gift guide here.

Iris and the Sweet Thursday challenge

2009-01-29T15:27:00.000-08:00

My friend Iris from either Germany or Ireland depending on how you think about it does beautiful mixed media work and entered a Sweet Thursday challenge on sunsets. Read more about it in her blog post.

Gift Guide front page today

2009-01-23T11:15:00.000-08:00

CCCOE's Handmade in California Web site included me as one of the front page picks for the day. Go by and visit to see all the other great CCCOE artists that have signed up.

Valentine's Day preparations

2009-01-21T20:35:00.000-08:00

I've had a great time this week turning the supplies I bought last week into cards. Here are some samples. You can find all of them at my shop on Etsy,