The One Woman Circus Act !

♥ Update On My Store AND SALE !!!

2009-09-02T01:46:00.009+08:00

I had a wonderful time in Singapore and truly enjoy meeting my friends and family ! But I too miss my Beautiful Geek loads! I hate being away from him for so long. I would be back in Shanghai this Sunday and I am looking forward to see him and also my shops!

I am very well rested and thank you mum for all the bird nest!

An update of my stores! Time to CELEBRATE!!!!!

Celebrate Everyday PRINT By jennysbakeshop.etsy.com

I am so in love with this print!!! This shop has loads of beautiful pastry prints! Definitely on my Xmas list!

a) I had moved my fabric button shop to http://en.dawanda.com/shop/OldFashionButtons , I had always like DaWanda and decided to try it out. So far, I love it! Fabulous customers and good selling features!

You can see some of my buttons on the right hand side of the blog. I simply love making them and do look out for my new additions!

b) I had over 4000 sales on Etsy in less than a year and honestly, I am blown away. It is suppose to be a small venture but the support of my regulars and truly nice buyers ever encounter has made selling on Etsy such a joy! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I am very excited to welcome my baby girl in January and I am preparing to make more room for my nursery ! It is time to clear my inventory as I will be on 2 to 3 months maternity leave.

c) Christmas is coming and I thought it would be nice to help you guys save some money when shopping for craft items or gifts.

Therefore I am throwing a huge sale!

*·.♥.·*´¨IT IS TIME TO CELEBRATE SALE!¨*·.♥.·*´¨

Buy 5 to 19 mix items and get 20% off!

Buy 20 mix items onward and get 25% off!

Do go to my store front page www.retronana.etsy.com and read the announcement or store policies for full details.

Lastly ... you know how I do love to blog but ... seems like China likes to block blogger sites , Facebook and sometimes also Twitter. I am really sad about this as this means I can't blog as much as I like to.

I am still going to keep trying though and hope one day I can blog as often as I want. Meanwhile, I thank you all who visited and shown your support. HUGS!

♥ Blog, Block, Baby Rocks !

2009-08-22T02:13:00.009+08:00

sweet pea -short or long knot hat by elephantsauce.etsy.com

Can you imagine the last time I blog, it was approx 3 months ago??? I was still happily blogging in Melbourne on my birthday ( 18th May) then. I was so excited to be home on the 19th to upload all my find purchases to show you guys. Then... China blocked blogspot.

I just about to have it with the Chinese government sometimes, I mean, there was the Xinjiang situation up north and they told us they have to block Facebook, Twitter and all blogger sites as the "fighters " there seems to use these channel to organize meetings and riots! I do understand how it is vital to contain all the fighting and cut short all communication but seriously ... this is too harsh and too much! I almost cried in exasperation as I love my blog and I had so many fun plans for it!

Now I am in Singapore , resting because *cough* I AM PREGNANT ( YEAH!). I am 5 months and 1 week along now with my baby girl nesting nicely in my tummy. I love being pregnant, I love the process so far and she is such a dear, nary a problem! She is due on the 2nd Jan 2010!

Naturally I am busy resting and planning my nursery and birth plan.

This being said, one can foresee I would be quite away when precious is borne next year. I plan to rest for 2 to 3 months and hence would put my store on vacation mode ( though I bet it is anything but a vacation!).

Prior to that, I will be holding a sale when I am back in September! Look out for my store announcements at www.retronana.etsy.com

I will be back soon to tidy my blog and post some updates! Thanks to those who continue to follow me! I really hope I can continue to blog about my Etsy fabulous finds and more! HUGS!

P/S : Really sorry for any typo or grammar mistakes! Since I am pregnant, it is getting harder and harder to think clearly! LOL. All I want to do is sleep! UURGHS

♥ Bye Melbourne

2009-05-18T20:10:00.003+08:00

What can I say. I am totally bliss out these 12 days in Melbourne. 12 days of gorgeous weather, beautiful people, fabulous food and awesome shopping!

I can't wait to leave, because it is all too good !!!!! I can feel myself looking at apartments and asking about migration procedures because it is just so easy to live here! Shanghai would bring me back to reality fast with the crazy traffic, loud talking and all the vehicles honking.

I am all packed, looks like 35 kg! For some reason, I got a student air ticket and I can have 40 kg!!!!! Betcha all I make sure I utilize every gram!

I can't wait to see Beautiful Geek and Halley Boo. I did not think I would miss my kitten but I did very much! I want to hug him ( still the kitten) so badly! I really really am amaze by my husband who actually called me everyday to chat! This is not our style but I feel really nice to hear his voice every night before I sleep. Thanks baby.

Loads of work to do too. Let's see by 25th May..

1) Unpack, wash, clean

2) Pack orders and ship orders.

3) Loads of new inventory to list!

4) Make appt with my beautician for my facial

5) Do my French homework!

6) Prepare for my next English class

7) Pay bills!!!!

8) Buy groceries

9) Book appt for Halley's vaccination

Hmmm..... maybe.... I should take a longer vacation!

♥ Good Things Comes To Those Who Wait 15% SALE!

2009-05-14T20:11:00.003+08:00

Hello all!!!! I am still in Melbourne and really having a fantastic time! This city is awesome awesome awesome!!!! I shall blog my heart out about my finds next week with all the pictures!

Meanwhile since the shops close at 6 pm, it gives me some time to tidy up all my stores inventory and do some work. I would be holding a 15% off Good Thing Comes To Those Who Wait Sale! from 15th May to 20st May.

The catch is that I can only ship your items on the 21st May.

This is my third such sales and I am always glad to hold it! I mean, I have quite a few emails this time asking when my stores would be open. I always thought it was nice of buyers to remember me! This 15% is a way of thanks for waiting!

So do drop by my two stores on the 15th May !

www.retronana.etsy.com

www.iheart.ecrater.com

If you are buying from my two stores reassures I will combined shipping. All the due discount and shipping would be refunded to you within 24 hours via Paypal!

So, hope to see you guys and thanks to all the lovely emails!!! *HUGS

♥ HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2009-05-10T19:22:00.003+08:00

HUGS ALL! I am in Melbourne for the 4th day now and I must say I am so busy shopping here ( loads of great buys!) that I almost forgotten about Mother's Day.

So to all of you guys, I wish you and your family a great day.:)

I am exhausted ! Just shopped straight for the last 6 hours! Don't worry, I will show you guys what I have bought when I get back!

HUGS!!!!

♥ Down Under Down Under I Go Down Under !

2009-05-06T12:38:00.005+08:00

MARKED DOWN Vintage Luggage Train Case with Spanish Monopoly Money and Coins By DSSDesigns

Love this luggage bag! So quaint!!! She as loads of even prettier ones in her store!

Ok, flying off to Melbourne today. I am all packed and very excited! I feel young again. Yes, I know I am not that old but I felt like 20 years old again, with my trusty backpack! Ever wonder what does a Singaporean pack in her bag? *smirk* Tell you, Singaporeans have got to be the best packer ever!

Consider the case of my mother dearest. This lady had never once flew on an airplane all her 55 years of her blessed life. Her first trip was a grueling 14 hours flight to Paris on a a wintery January for my wedding. I was worried to death about her and keep nagging her to pack more warm clothes and heat packs. Well, I should not , see my mum WITHOUT advice , WITHOUT A GUIDEBOOK, on her OWN , packed the usual and

a) rubber bands

b) loads of safety pins which she use to pin her money packed in a small plastic bag to the inside of her pant's pocket.

Chilly Cat (upcycled paper bead and safety pin bracelet with glass cat bead) by TheBeehive.etsy.com

Honestly, this bracelet is really way cool. I can look good and if I need a safety pin, voila !

c) 2kg of rice which honestly guaranteed the survival of my father, auntie too. I mean, they cannot eat bread everyday like the French! LOL!

Mystery Set Of 2 Heat It Up Or Cool It Down Rice Bags Pick Your Skin and MineralMagic Scent

by ccquilter.etsy.com

I love these pretty rice bags! Another good travel item! I can first use it to rest my neck or back. Then if I am homesick and miss rice, I can open it and cook the grains inside!

Moi, for my Australia trip, I always am very proud of my packing skills and this time I would be staying in a mix dorm hostel ( I told my God sister this is like a fabulous opportunity to observe various human behaviors and learn about one's own too). I had

a) 3 different sizes of locks for locking my valuable in the lockers givens.

b) 3 universal plugs. Why 3 if it is already universal in the first place?Anyway I am lazy to remove the other two from my backpack.

c) Loads of plastic bags and ziplock bags

SnackSleeve- aGreenSleeve, snack bag, reusable bag, baggie, fabric bag, lunch bag- Alexander Henry's Folklorico MINI Calaveras Pink by agreensleeve .

Next time, I swear I would buy these reusable bags! I never though it can come in so many colors, prints and awesome prices!!!!

d) a pair of flip flops for those shared bathroom. It is important to really air your feet and keep them dry at a shared bathroom!!!

PInk and Brown flip flop and bow set by Amberkhokhar83

Pretty pretty pretty! It is always nice to have something pretty to wear on travel.

e) First Aid, I have enough to treat for insomnia to gonorrhea ( I do not ever have gonorrhea but someone else might) . LOL!

f) A cloth mouth mask to protect myself from , heard that whooping cough is doing it's round there. I know I know there is little chance of me catching it but I have a responsibility to make sure I am healthy. After all, there really isn't that much true blooded Singaporean on this planet you know.

g) I always believe when backpacking, one should allow oneself one luxury item. Once I pack my LV small handheld tote as my luxury item to Nepal.. yeah... not smart.. but because it can be frightening at night ( gunshots heard!) , I hug it for comfort.

I also once packed my favorite diamond ring on a trip to Europe, did not wear it at all, everyone's seems to have bigger diamond ring than me. LOL. This time, I am bring my hair dryer!!! Honestly, to be able to have warm wind blowing around my head for 5 minutes after shower in winter is like the greatest treat of all!

So sweeties, thanks for checking in and for reading my blog. I would try to update in a few days with my fab finds on this trip.

Oh yes, look check it my store in 16th May , if all goes well, I should have my 3rd Good Thing Comes To Those Who Wait sale. If I can't find very secure internet access in Australia, I might not hold the sale. We'll see but either way, check in and see the store announcements. Have a good day all!:)

♥ FRONT PAGE WORTHY UNDISCOVERED SELLERS - Finder's Keepers

2009-05-02T16:39:00.009+08:00

Today, the weather is typical of Shanghai, grey, rainy, cool and misty. This is the kind of weather I like to sit in at home , wearing my favorite mismatched tee shirts and pants , hang out with a cup of coffee, some cupcakes ( like the ones below!) , a kitten sleeping on my lap, keeping me company. I feel lazy and am already in a holiday mood ( yes, 4 more days to my Melbourne trip).

Chocolate Cherry Cupcake Soap from Scratch - REAL Handcrafted Soap--Limited Flavor by LilyBaySoap.etsy.com

Seriously.. this has got to stop! I want to eat them all!!!!

This might be the first photo which you have seen of me! LOL! Yap, I am an internet slob and slop! Halley Boo loves hanging around my lap while I worked. Too bad he can't spell check for me!

I also itch to browse through Etsy. Often, I worked so hard for all my stores, I barely have time to really have a look at all the fabulous sellers and their beautiful wares.

Etsy has many tools to help one decide how to look for items. I use Favorite Sellers most, I have over 500 favorite sellers and it is sheer joy looking at their stores. Today, I thought I try one tool which I have not use for a long time. POUNCE , this a super fun tool on Etsy would randomly show a list of either Undiscovered Shops or shops which had Just Sold something.

Honestly..... I kind of am ambivalent about this Undiscovered Shops feature. I mean.. I feel it might make potential buyers wonderful why these shops have no sales and perhaps subconsciously avoid these stores. Well... they shouldn't. *Smile. Today I pounced and was really happy to undiscovered some gems!!!!

Newbie onesie by applecreek

Yes, I do agree that most of these stores does not have the greatest pictures, the greatest range of items or many listings ( average 10 listing for these shops). I mean, come to think of it. If there are no sales, it is really hard to be motivated to list more. Some of them might just dipping their toes and see if the response is optima for them to continue listing. Some might not have that kind of capital to list a lot. Nonetheless, I feel all of us at Etsy has an obligation to help new sellers .

I try to buy from newbies as much as I can but one other common problem I see is that new sellers are always almost ship to USA only. I know I know, they just want to ship internally first to get a hang of the shipping process but they do kind of isolated a lot of international buyers ( like moi). SHIP TO ME!!! I CRAVE YOUR LOVELY STUFF! I GOT 99.9% of my packages delivered safely to me!!!!!! I AM RICH AND I LIKE EVERYTHING!!!!!! SHIP TO ME! LOL!

So, this Finder's Keepers below is dedicated to new sellers who just started selling on Etsy. Let me tell you, looking at their items, photos and prices, they would soon be on Etsy top seller list. So grab them before they are all gone.:)

FRONT PAGE WORTHY!

Finder's Keepers

From top, center, bottom, left to right ::

a) Caramel Rose Brooch by emeraldlily.

Lovely lovely polymer clay brooch set on umber leaves! I love how it sit so nicely on a coat!

b) Hello Sailor by Custard.etsy.com.

I have seen many of these kind of boxed frames but this piece is really gorgeous. I felt it is really made with care with wonderful color combination. It is not too "artsy" or too "put together". You know, like some pieces looks beautiful but lack experience or personality. This piece would be perfect for my mother-in-law's beach house.

c) Size 0 - 3 mths - Short Sleeved White Onesies with Tie Applique by SamAndCoop.

I generally do not browse through kid's shops as there is no need for it yet *smile. I do know children's shops on Etsy offers one of the best selection of clothes and toys. This onesie makes me smile. I often imagined my perhaps future son to be a geek ( I love geeks!) . This onesie would be perfect for him! LOL! There is a nice selection for pretty baby girls too!:)

d) Dreamy Magnet Set By buttonworks.

I am starting to develop a serious liking for magnets. I use to think they are pretty redundant until I had my own fridge ! I love sticking photos, postcards, letters, notes, scrapbook pages on my fridge, it is so enjoyable looking at friends and family when I make a cold sandwich. My fridge is also my Hall Of Fame. Only people I like goes would be stuck on my fridge doors! That is why I love this set of magnets, so zakka, so positive and lovely colors!

My "Hall Of Fame " !!! LOL! Yap, I need to replace those ugly green and yellow magnets with prettier ones soon!

e) saffron, curry yellow sandals by LittleValley.

I love this pair of sandals! So cheerful and looks comfy! Good prices too!

f) THE OLIVIA - Rag Quilt by thetrunkshow .

Simply beautiful quilt. Made of designer cotton fabric and I love the ragging look to it! This store has more lovely quilt too! Check it out!

g) MUSICAL FIGURINES by NanaJB.etsy.com.

This set of figurines made me go WOW!!!! I love them all! Nice combination! It would make such a nice decoration for those who wants a frou frou touch! At only USD 5 each or USD 40 for the whole set, it is such a wonderful deal!!! Quick grab it!

h) Airplane Wine Bottle Holder by WorldofWoodwork.

I love wood, I begin to seriously take notice of wood craft on Etsy these days. No longer boring wooden bowls or kitschy keychain holders, one can find really designer quality and designs these days on the ever growing wood craft category. This airplane wine holder is one case. Simple, classy and a touch of fun!

i) Nude Peacock Hiding in Duck Vintage 10k Gold or Silver by MishkaPiaf .

Feathers are in now and looks like it would be going strong until the end of this fall. Why not? Look at this piece, elegant, bold and great colors. This shop has great great pieces which is not the usual ones you would see flooding Etsy now.

j) All Seasons Brown/Green Shoulder Bag by muddleandflow.

I love this bag! For some reasons, I always find Australian sellers has a very distinct style of their own. This bag kind of proved it for me. When I first see it, I know it is not made in USA or Europe. I love the little pleat details and the shape of the bag! I always love it when crafters make a point to add interesting details to their items. It really stands out.

k) F.CK LOVE Cotton Candy Soap Bar -- Glycerin -- Vegan Friendly by FireStarSoapCo.etsy.com .

Ok, the pink got to me first. I am totally addicted to pink. How can one not? Look at this bold, shocking pink soap! Perfect for my bathroom! Love the originality of the design too! LOL!

l) IT'S NOTHING by HeatherMPhotography .

At first, I thought nothing ( pun intended ;p) of this shop .I thought "another photography shop" , don't get me wrong, I LOVE photography but sometimes after browsing through shops with loads of fruit, flowers , skies photo etc, I am kind of bored. Why would I buy a photo of an apple or a bunch of rose? I do love this print though! I like the colors and the texture of it. A good shop for those who wants something different !

♥ Busy Busy Busy !

2009-04-29T22:46:00.004+08:00

Yes, that is how I felt often! Well there is always the honey.

cotton drawstring pouch bag -- busy as a bee -- idiom bag by chasinglightningbugs

I bet you guys had forgotten about me! I don't blame you! I am so freaking busy these days ( then again I am kind of always busy!). Let's see what I had been up to ::

♥ I am spending a lot of time with Halley Boo (my 9 weeks old kitten), brought him to the vet and yes I know I told you guys it is a female but the vet felt his miniscule testicles and happy told me "It is a boy!!!!" ( after all, we are in China). I was shocked! GOODNESS!!!!! I had been raising him like a girl all these weeks! I had been combing his hair 100 times before he sleeps, accessorizing him with little clips and ribbons ! His litter box is pink, his small cushion is pink , his food bowl is pink and his nail polish is pink ( just kidding but THERE IS nail polish for kittens!!!!).

Duhz... well, at least that explains his super speedy growth, his pretty aggressive nature and his sloppy eating habit! LOL! I am not too bother really, he is such a fun and affectionate kitten, it is a really pleasure watching him grow!

I love to watching him sleep. It is nice when I can see he felt safe with us and love sleeping near us!

My friend bought her cat over for a play date. Dimanche is a four year old handsome tom cat! You can see Halley is trying to steal the food! LOL!

♥ I am preparing my trip to Melbourne ( YAH!!!!!) , gosh I need a break so badly! I am a little worried though because I am not sure if it is easy to get around there. I need to Google abit more. Anyway, the idea of chilling out with Lilien, my super fun God sister really makes me very happy! I know the both of us is going to hunt down the best bargain in town and make everyone back home super envious!

Lovely necklace ! By Arete

♥ I am finally able to find a decent supplier for my deco tapes! Perhaps because I am an expat here and my Mandarin is not very good, I might been deem as not one of the local hence the suppliers are abit wary to deal a lot with me.

After 6 months of spending a lot of money at their stores, I am so happy to say I had established a good relationship with many of them! The last batch of tapes, I manage to get it at wholesale prices! God, that means, approx 40% to 60% off!!!! Yeah!!!!!! It sure took awhile but perhaps I did not buy in bulk so that is why they are reluctant to give wholesale prices.

I am in the mist of reducing my prices for my deco tapes and changing my listings. I hope to complete it by 30th April but changing 1800 listings can be a daunting task! Lucky for me, I have loads of coffee, cds and a warm kitten to keep me company!

*ROFL*

♥ I had been officially selling on Etsy for 4 months and it is really an experience for me. I find this site to be really quite different from eBay in all ways pleasant. Etsy buyers are much more polite, friendly and positive! I truly enjoy selling on Etsy.

I do learnt a lot too. I mean, I had used various ways to give discount to buyers and it did worked but after doing some serious calculations and studying the buying trends in my store. It seems that 75% of my buyers typically buy less than 10 items. They buy 6 to 8 items per order on average.

I received approx 21 convos asking me to explain the old discount rates. I do not blame them really, it is really quite confusing even to me. 21 convos in 6 months is not good, I know I need to do something about this.

So I was brainstorming and with the supplier's wholesale discount, I gathered I can merge these two events together. I can lower my prices and this would benefit 75% of my buyers who buys less than 10 items.

For those who buys 10 items, I can give them a 10% discount and if they buy 20 items, it would be 15% discount. Just giving two discount rates, I hope it would help to make it easier for buyers to calculate and more free ways to include any items, instead of specific categories.

I have approx 30 IHeart members now and I really appreciate them a lot! They should not be to affected with the new rates. I hope this would make them happy too! :)

This cartoon is taken from http://www.shannonburns.com/cartooncatalogbusiness.htm

♥ As I had mentioned I would be on holiday soon and my stores would be closed from 4th May to 21st May. I am using this time to recoup, regroup and re-troop ( I don't think there is this word but it kind of rhythms so I use it). I have many many plans for May to July, read on ::

a) There would be a Featured Seller here every weekend till July. I am reviewing the sellers as we speak. I love doing Featured Seller posts and I hope it is a way I can help give back to the Etsy community.

b) The last Blog Giveaway was really a lot of fun! The next one would be in June. Do look out for the details here late May.

c) This blog is about 3 months old I think and I also want to use my vacation time to see which direction I want this to go. The purpose is to promote Etsy and it's sellers , I want to see if I can do a store directory here . Perhaps a weekly update about each store's special offer or new items.

d) I am going to source for more stuff for my IHeart eCrater store. I love listing there! So easy and I am starting to come out of the Handmade/ Supplies mentality and see if I can list more categories like headbands, hair clips and more household items!

Indeed, I am blessed to be in this place, this time, this era and this body! Thank you all for being so nice and read my blog!

COMING UP THIS WEEK :: I am featuring a vintage seller and look out for the next Finder's Keepers !

♥ ETSY DAY 24th April 2009

2009-04-25T01:02:00.003+08:00

T♥DAY IS ETSY DAY!!! Finally someone took the brave initial and after a lot of hard work and positivity, thanks to schugirl!! Etsy now has her own day! Etsy now has approx 200,000 and more sellers and is home to thousands of wonderful stores!

There are a whole lot of threads on the forum, everyone is busying twittering, blogging and doing their part to let more people know about our beloved site! I thought I would join in by Twittering and blogging about this day.

I also decided to throw a 15% storewide sale at my IHeart store! Please kindly show your support for wonderful handmade crafts and supplies by visiting Ets y today!

♥ Jacarandadesigns - Beautiful Hand Made Jewelries, Featured Seller Series

2009-04-23T23:14:00.009+08:00

As you all can see, I do love to feature Etsy sellers! I always have a lot of fun and I learnt many things from them! I get a lot of insights into their craft and life. I am always glad when they agreed to be interview by me!:) I plan to have a featured seller every week now and I sincerely hope somehow this would let more people see not just the products but to understand and get to know the artist behind each piece too.

I am thrilled today to have Jane , Etsy store owner of Jacarandadesigns this week. I am not very much a jewelry lover and personally I am fussy as hell when it comes to them. I like my jewelries clean, fuss free and in the other words, I quite boring. So Jane really amazed me with her range of lovely earrings, bracelets, necklace , rings and more! I mean, she uses such a wide range of beads, crystals and metals! She does not seems to be confined to one style at all and I bet her mind run as free as horses on a wide plain. I felt caught up in her world and yes, indeed, it was quite a journey as I shop through her store!

Let's chat with her and be prepared to be dazzled!

Clockwise : Pearls and Swirls Brass and Pearls Maple Leaf Necklace, Blue Egg Birds Nest Earrings, Green Tea Pearl Bloom Brass Necklace and Dancing Flower Silver Earrings .

♥ When I first enter your store, I was amazed by the wide range of jewelries you had created! I can see that you really make a lot of effort to makes these lovely items, can you tell us when you started making jewelries and what motivated you to open a store on Etsy?

I've always been creative, dabbling in all kinds of crafts and arts and I've always loved wearing jewelry. A few years ago, I went to a beading class with a friend and I was hooked. At the time I was battling an illness and I found jewelry making very therapeutic. I made so many items that I gave to family and friends but then I found many people asking me to sell them pieces of jewelry that I had made. It just took off from there. My sister was one of the first sellers on Etsy. She convinced me that Etsy would be a wonderful place to sell my jewelry.

Gems and Jewels Vintage Style Necklace

♥ How does each creation comes about? For example, do you start with an idea, then source for the material or the other way around?

I wouldn't say I have a set process. Whenever I see beads and findings that I like and can imagine in a piece of jewelry, I snap them up. When I make jewelry, I usually start with a base color and then put tons of my beads on my table where I can see all the colors and then pick certain ones that complement each other. About twice a week, I take out all my photography equipment and take tons of shots of the new pieces. I like to list something new on my shop almost every day.

Brass, Blue and Bronze In One Necklace

♥ I see you uses many different types of media for your craft, which is your favorite ? Can you recommend us something pretty to wear for a) a date b) a family outing c) an anniversary ?

I enjoy working with all forms of beads and beading materials but I think I'd have to say Japanese Miyuki and Toho beads. That is the type of bead I used for the Love Knot Bracelet. They come in so many different colors and they retain their color over the years.

For a date, make an impression with Tons and Tons of Gorgeous Pearls Necklace

Tons and Tons of Gorgeous Pearls Necklace

For a family outing, maybe one of my posy bracelets. The Shades of Green Posy Bracelet

Shades of Green Posy Bracelet

And for the anniversary, definitely the Love Is In The Air Silver Love Knot Bracelet

Love Is In The Air Silver Love Knot Bracelet

♥ And yes, we love to know more about you too! Tell us a little about your childhood, your career, your likes and dislikes.

I am 42 and married with two very energetic boys. We live just west of Toronto, Canada. I was in the IT industry for twenty years before packing it in and pursuing my passion, making jewelry. I’ve always been quite creative, dabbling in sewing, embroidery, painting, drawing etc. but for a long time, these hobbies were left on the backburner. Like most moms, my life is fairly hectic but very rewarding. I love cooking. I have a huge collection of cookbooks so I’m always experimenting with new recipes. I love gardening, photography, cross country skiing, cycling and traveling.

Pearl and Swarovski Bracelet

♥ I am sure, like a lot of us, you love Etsy too. Want to share a few of your favorite sellers with us?

I have mostly bought supplies on Etsy but the store that I keep going back to look at and hopefully will buy from is catherinereece.

Spring Flowers Bracelet

♥ Lastly, please let us know what other fun sweet creation we can be expecting for Spring and Summer!

I'm inspired by the colors in the natural environment that surrounds us. I love gardening and take loads of photos of my flowers and others each spring, summer and fall.

When I'm creating jewelry, I often go back and look at many of these shots and draw inspiration from the hues, shades and shapes. So I will be continuing to create

jewelry that draws upon the colors and elements of my garden.

Fairy on a Blue Dewdrop Spring Necklace

♥ Do you sell your wonderful accessories in any other site or places other than Etsy? Where else can we find you?

Not currently. But hopefully once I am more established on Etsy, I will be able to branch out to other sites.

I Love You Yeah Yeah Yeah Necklace

Thanks again Jane for letting us have a peek into your life and enchanted world. I personally am in love with all the beautiful Love Is In The Air Silver Love Knot Bracelet above! Do spend sometimes in her store! You would come out soothed, calm and refreshed, I did.:)

♥ Jane's Etsy Store

www.jacarandadesigns.etsy.com

♥ Her Sweet Blog!

http://jacarandagal.blogspot.com

♥ So You Want To Join The Circus And Start Selling Online ? Part I

2009-04-22T00:34:00.014+08:00

GOOD MORNING LET THE STRESS BEGIN 71

By giftsnsigns

Running an online business can be tough, seriously tough. I can assure you many sellers would tell you that. I am by no means experienced but I had served over 2500 customers over the past 3 years ( two and half years on eBay and six months on Etsy) and I think perhaps I should recorded some of what I had learn these years. It is purely subjective and don't drink in everything I said, it is just for my own record too. Perhaps I can look back at this post 2 years later and laugh.

♥What you love, most probably another 1000 people would hate and vs versus.

It is always wonderful to sell what you personally like. I started this way with headbands, I had the widest range of headbands on eBay back then. I choose to sell what I like, the colors and the designs.

Then I realized that most people still prefer basic earthly colors ( which I dislike). I was reluctant to add dull colors and prints but hey they are the ones that sold out the fastest. Buyers still likes to buy items that has more mileage in terms of cost and fashion changes.

This store and her items totally made my day! So cute and original!!!! Why choose black when you can be erm .. birdbrain for a day ?LOL!!

Quirky Quail Headband

By buffalump.etsy.com

Slowly I learn, that even if I do not like the items, many people out there does. I have to balance my passion with making money. I made enough off the basic colors headbands to indulge in the more unusual prints and colors, hardly sold any but made me happy to have them in the store. Then sometimes, sooommmeee timeesss ... a buyer would come and buyer 10 of your favorite prints, it is the best feeling most of all, finding a person in this big world who loves what you love.

♥Tools , Stools And Loos

B) Expect to work your ass off for the first 6 months when you have a new store, cancel all holiday plans, all sick plans, all long weekends, take a long hard look at your loved ones as you may not really "see" them for a long time, they load your vitamins, eye drops, coffee coffee coffee and invest in a super thick, duck / goose feather cushion , your back will thank you for all the hours on your chair. Find a good chair with some holes on the cushion, you will need loads of ventilation over that area for the hours you put in . If not, there is always cream for Nappy Rash.

Get a decent camera. The pictures are crucial to selling online. Pray for sun everyday ( especially if you stay in UK or Shanghai) , really items photographed with good sunlight always turns out wonderful!

Honestly.. if I have this chair, I would not be weary of work at all!

Antique Monarch Chair

By sprucehome.etsy.com

Wow, awesome prints and it has duck feather pad!!! Grab it!!!

kitsch religious iconography print cushion

By ChickenDogHastings

Load your Ipod with music ( don't even think about putting them in your hard drive , unless you own several, the stock photos would overtake them very soon). A good selection of Jazz, Bossa Nova, French music always helps me relax and makes me feel really positive when I list. I choose Techno or Hip Hop when I am really sleeply, helps to perk me up a little. I never listen to sad ballads because the few times I do so, I describe everything as dull, dark, mustard, mud etc...

Buy a good weighting machine, best if it can weigh up to 5 kg. A big calculator, set the decimal points to 2 spaces , by the 18th hour of working, you tend to see more zeros than usual. A measuring tape with inches, foot, yard, cm readings on it. Buy a good one, it will last you forever unless your rabbit chewed into half ( like mine did).

Fill 2 liters of water everyday when you first start and position yourself near to the toilet if possible. When you are in the excitement of listings and selling, you tend to forget to drink and pee. You end up a power seller but look like a raisins by the end of 6th month.

In the end, if you can still see the A or E on your key pad, if your doctor declare you a strong physically and mentally healthy person, if you still cannot convert inches to cm in seconds, if your right thumb does not start twitching involuntarily sometimes , you are not working hard enough.

Ass sore from listing and promoting? Betcha Love This Cool Bath Soak!

Tired Ol' Ass Refreshing Bath Soak

By CottageGardenTherapi

♥ If your family, friends, colleague, mother-in-law like your wares, you might be doomed.

Yes, again, we love to think our wares are the best on earth and everyone would love them like you do. Think again carefully how many people are like you? Do not confuse them liking your stuff with them being alike with you.

I got a big lesson, I had always been a fan of those sweet Japanese eco bags. I always carried one with me and got a lot of nice compliments from friends, strangers, colleagues etc. I though WOW, it should sell like hot cakes if I got some! I sourced for them and well, they did not so much fly off the shelves as crawl off like a snail.

So I thought, perhaps well since my friends and all love them, I should give them as gifts! They should be happy! Well... guess what, they did not want them.. I mean they politely refuse. I realized then yes they like it but it is not their style to carry eco bags. They like it on me but they do not want to use one ( citing awkward handles and troublesome origami style folding which they find it hard with their clumsy big hands ).

Yes, I end up with enough eco bags to change one every day for 3 months and ironically that makes me not eco friendly at all. I learned to take the praises and compliments of my loved ones with 3 scoop of salt and dilute further with a gallon of bleach.

The rule of my twitching thumb is : if my loved ones oohhhh ahhhh woooowwww wwwweeee over my items BUT do not rush in line to buy ANY of Them. I think twice before selling them ( the items not my loved ones).

Erm... the title is really given in the listing! Not by me!

The Ultimate Ugly Bag

By TheWoolyProfessor

♥ The Customer Is Always Right *Bah

Honestly I wish I can kill the cow who coin this phrase. We all know it is not true but since we had been so brainwashed by society to believe it is true, we just accept it without much thought. It is so not true. I do get really awful buyers who are just so demanding, I even include the moon a few times but still they are not happy. No, customers are not always right. Forgive them if they insult you, your family, your lineage and your dog. They had been brainwashed too. They think " I think I order black but this is charcoal black, I think I am in the wrong but since they always says "Customer Is Always Right", I am the customer... hmm..Gee! I MUST BE RIGHT!"

Elegant and soothing scrabble tile necklace.

HOMESTUDIO - - - - Scrabble Tile Pendant - BREATHE JUST BREATHE

By HomeStudio

It is a good thing I do not encountered them much but when I do, I get upset, I felt insulted, wronged, there are no justice on earth, I am the most pitiful girl on earth, where is my silk robe, my feather boa, my long couch and really where is my Ben And Jerry's?

Then I get mad at myself for feeling this way. I am not in the wrong, really, she ordered charcoal black, not black! Even if I got it wrong, can't she tell me nicely, I would have sent the other piece for free immediately! I used to whined, pined, dined ( eating has always been important to me) , sighed for a few days. I do that, rudeness affects me deeply. Why can't people be civil? There is no need for name callings, dig up my old ancestors sexual history,unusual and disturbing accusations and a 3 paragraphs email over a $3.95 headband ???

Now after 3 years, I learnt to take it all in perspective and more time efficiently. When I encountered one, I would write the buyer's name and hit it with a soft pillow 1o times , in 1 minute I am done and life goes on.

Seriously, you will meet one one day. If you do, you will get upset, maybe cry a little, feel worthless a little but you will be fine. Don't let someone who did not raise you up, put you through school, take you to the prom , hold your hair when you puke ever put you down and out.

Two Faced Stress Buddy, Stress Doll, Rice Bag, Lavender, Unique

By auntmartymadeit

♥ I Love My Regulars

You know who you are :). I really do appreciate my regular buyers, without whom I cannot sustain my business. Every first customer who buys from you has the potential to be a regular. Hence it is very important to be absolutely nice to them ( and sincerely too). Sometimes, you have only one chance to impress, dazzle them with your packaging, your emails , shipping time and remember them by name when they come back.

Fabulous Set Of Tags to Make Your Customers Smile!

4 PAPER HANG or GIFT TAGS - FLOWER GIRLS

By lapaperagialla

I do not profess to do all the above but I tried my best whenever I can. I mean, I am honored they actually trusted their hard earned money with me and buy my very lovely things from my very lovely store ( sorry, self promote a bit). I once had a customer who told me she got USD 100 as a birthday gift from her parents and she promptly spend it in my store. That really touches me very deeply. Even now, I just feel so... thankful and grateful for that. ;p

Cheerful and pretty buttons any Etsy lovers would love! A very nice way of sending as small gifts for your customers!

Etsy Love Button Mix - Set of 10

By BauerDesigns

♥ I Am A Lover Not A Fighter

I hate competitors. I am a coward, I always profess not wanting to join any contest, games, TV reality shows, to be Paris Hilton BBF is because I am a lover, not a fighter. *Bah. Truth is, I hate losing. I hate to compete with others. I hardly played well with others, how can I then even compete?

Lover or Fighter? You can be both!

lover/fighter tie clip set

By lovinganvil

Still, competition is inevitable on online selling. Even if you have a super duper unique product that only you have, you will still find copycats copying your duper product ( since it had been copied, it is no long super nor unique). I try to steel clear as much as I can but I do can caught up going all paranoid over what others are doing, selling. I became for awhile, angry, bitter and total stress out trying to think of ways to beat the others at this game. Well, seriously it is difficult. I wasted a lot of time being angry and raising my fist to heavens so many times had rendered my right hand numb for 2 minutes once.

I learn to let go. I mean, seriously there will be competitors but why should I expect it to be different from retails malls? I mean, in malls, there are so many stores competing for businesses, it is the norm. On the flip side, I too , am deemed a competitor in some other sellers' eyes, I too, had been their source of right hand numb syndrome. I realize then to be a business woman, I have to always calculated my potential competitors in the equations.

They can be of help too in my decision making. I am always trying to price my items the best I could, sometimes I overpriced without knowing since I tend to compare it with the prices in the Mall. When I studied my competitors' prices, I can then make a better decision as I have an idea what the market is. Sometimes my competitors undercut my prices a lot, I have to be careful not to follow suit. The problem is , once I lower my prices, they might further do so too. Then I would if I am foolish enough to lower my prices to match theirs and in the end, no one gets a decent profit margin. I have to make sure first that I am comfortable with my prices. No point making loads of sales, look good on Etsy sales number and earn only $0.50 in each transaction. Been there, done that, I am done with making $0.89 an hour.

♥ Not Making A Lot Of Money But It Is Because I CHOOSE NOT TO ( really..)

I observed a lot of sellers over the last 3 years. I guess we all admire those that constantly have fabulous sales and wonder if we will ever be like them. I use to dream about being like them and fancy hiring an assistant to help me ship and packed. Well, now I do not think I would ever be. I tried, trust me, at one point, I had 6 stores selling different things. I Squidoo, Twitter, StumbleUpon, MySpace, Facebook, spray my store names on a wall in Paris, Singapore, Seoul, Shanghai and even the parallel Universes , whatever it is , I had tried them.

I was exhausted.

Yes, it yield results, I do have great sales but the constant updating, listings , sourcing for inventory and trying to have a life burns me out. I was depress even though I have a lot of digital money on Paypal. I was miserable. I am too afraid to hire anyone to help me as I know I have my slow sales months, I might not be able to pay him/her. This is kind of stupid honestly because in retrospect, no good business person would ever think like that. I mean, to be successful, one has to think far, be disciplined and I believe at that point, if I hire an assistant, I would be making more money and two heads are better than one.

Anyway, I decided to close 3 stores, sold one, left 2 and I am much much happier. I have lesser money but at least I do not get startled when I see Beautiful Geek's face and remembered I have a husband.

One day, my kid will wear this!

Million Dollar Baby - Chenille Baby Bib

By colbylanedesigns

Lesson learnt. I have to admit to myself that I cannot be a 5000 sales a month seller. The most I can handle is 500 sales a month. I also have to admit I am not that much of a foresight business person and I guess I would always earned just enough to put in my retirement fund ( GOTCHA! See, I am farsighted! I had already thought about retiring in style !LOL!)

Oh my goodness! This post is so long! I must have got carried away again. Oh wait.. this is my blog so I can talk as much as I want! Dang , right thumb twitching again. I will continue the second part next time! Again, the above post is my own experiences and my point of view. Please forgive me if I incidentally offend anyone! You know I love you all!:)

♥ Nun of a Kind Dolls - Featured Seller Series

2009-04-18T01:16:00.011+08:00

Nun Of A Kind Indeed !

You know 1 year ago, if I mention Etsy to my friends or family members, I would not be too bothered when they told they did not heard about this wonderful site. 1 year later, NOW, if they still had not check it out, I would look at them with pity in my eyes. I mean.. oh man.. they are so MISSING OUT.

They would retort with one can buy things easily in one's country , after all , everything is Made In China. If I heard this complacent sentence one more time, I would... look at them with even more pity and sadness. Everything is SO NOT CHINA MADE! Anyway, I will blog about China Made stuff next week.

Today I am going to introduce a seller whose items I can't find in Singapore, in China or in my dreams. Not too bad really, cause they exist in real life. I want to show you someone who created such inspiration and unique dolls. Everytime I see them, I smile and start to think who should I buy them for! It is definitely a store I would check in very often when I need a special gift!

Sister Curlotta--the hairstylist

I am thrilled to feature Nunofakind ( yes, all the puns are intended!) today! It's owner and creator Linda is such a positive and friendly lady! She makes beautiful Nuns dolls and her word play is wicked too ( check out her listings titles!) . I had a really nice time reading her interview she had so kindly granted me. I wish I can load all her dolls on my site ( I would feel blessed barnun ;p). Nuntheless (I am getting good at this!) , I know where I can find her anytime anyway.:)

Nun the Wiser

1) Every time I see your Nuns dolls, I remember my encounter with some of them! They ( the Nuns) are indeed very human and very fun people to be with. How did you come up with such usually and very inspiring dolls ?

The “Nun of a Kind” collection began with the creation of an ornament made for teachers who had presented their version of “Sister Act” at my son’s school. That, along with the fact that it occurred to me that like the “Sisters”, we all share different “habits”, was the beginning of the collection which now has around 80 different “Sisters”! Some of my teachers at elementary school were nuns, and I remember them fondly. My music teacher, Sister St. Louis, was also a wonderful influence in my life.

Sunday Morning Fever, the dancing nun

2) How does each creation comes about? For example, do you start with an idea, then source for the material or the other way around?

Often, the idea begins with a request from a customer. For example, a customer wanted something for her hairdresser, and “Sister Curlotta” was “born”. In some cases, I do find items which I think might be a nice “fit” for the characters, and then I go about creating the name. It is choosing of the name which is the most fun….. I love puns and word play, so this challenges me in that regard.

Mother Souperior

3) Do you sell your sweet dolls in any other site or places other than Etsy? Where else can we find you?

I do have my own personal site www.nunofakind.com in which customers can see the nuns in their “habit-at”! There are 50 sisters pictured there at the moment, and also some items in the “Nunderware” section for other ‘nun” items. My Artfire site is www.nunofakind.artfire.com as well, and as Artfire grows, it will be another great venue at which to sell. "Etsy", (www.nunofakind.etsy.com) of course, is an absolutely wonderful place to sell....and to buy!

Nunderware-Mother Souperior tea-towel

4) Do you accept custom make orders and normally how long it takes for you to complete a doll?

Custom orders are my specialty! Customers contact me with their request, and through email, and digital pictures, we are able to create their custom nun together, as they give approval before the final item is shipped.

Sister Anita Timms, the coffee-loving sister

5) I am sure a lot of us come across Nuns in our countries, can you tell us some stories about them?

I have had several letters from nuns from all sorts of religious orders, and their message is that they are happy that the “sisterhood” is being kept alive through the creation of these nun dolls and others. There have been a few new sisters to orders who have received these as commemorative gifts. Also, sisters who are celebrating anniversaries of their entry into their vocation have received their personalized “Sisters”. However, the intent was that women in general would buy and receive these sisters to remind us that we are all sisters of sorts, and all types of interests, occupations, etc. are addressed in the "Sisterhood".

Sister Esther Jen, the hormonal nun

6) And yes, we love to know more about you too! Tell us a little about your childhood, your career, your likes and dislikes.

I have created items, particularly characters, for many years, and usually exhibit at art and craft shows. My entry into internet sales started about a year ago. I have an interest in knitting, crocheting, painting, and quilting, but for the most part, I am devoting most of my time to this business. This is what I hope will be my full-time career at this point in my life!

Fullabean Chef

7) I am sure, like a lot of us, you love Etsy too. Want to share a few of your favorite sellers with us?

I am especially drawn to the jewelry that is sold on “Etsy”. I have purchased some unique gifts for friends on the site. There are so many fantastic sellers on “Etsy” that it is difficult to “narrow it down” to just a few favorites. I love looking at the “Pounce” section and have discovered many new shops that way.

Sister Ivana Wynne, the bingo player

8) Lastly, please let us know what other fun sweet creation we can be expecting for Spring and Summer!

There will always be more “sisters” joining the collection. In addition, there will be many “one of a kind” angels, Santas, and ornaments added to the shops.

For new items, and news from the “Sisterhood”, please visit the “Nun of a Kind” blog at www.nunofakind.blogspot.com and follow me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/nunofakind

Nun of a Kind Greeting Cards

I had loads of fun doing this post! I like Nuns, I always feel there are more to them under their "habits" and thanks Linda for affirming that. In this sometimes crazy and sad world, I feel good, calm, soothed whenever I see them, like everything is just going to be alright. I will think about what doll I would like one for myself. Once again, she loves to do custom listings (yay!!!) and super reasonable shipping rates! You can hang out with her at :

♥Linda's Stores:

www.nunofakind.etsy.com

www.nunofakind.artfire.com

www.nunofakind.com

♥Her Twitter :

www.twitter.com/nunofakind

♥Her Super Cute Blog!

www.nunofakind.blogspot.com

♥ I SUPER HEART MY STORE!!!

2009-04-15T12:45:00.012+08:00

Totally cute colorful buttons and heart design with THANKS on it! Perfect for gift wrapping!

Things have been moving so fast for me these days! I keep loading new items and it was truly joyful sourcing for them, seeing them in person and listing them! I really love my store. I mean, everyone loves their store I know but for me , it is like truly fun for me to browse in my own store too! I list so much that sometimes I forgot what there are!

I had a few buyers who told me I had a good eye for items. I do hope so! I love a lot of things and I can only sell what I like. I try working in a boutique once and I did not like the clothes the shop is selling, going to work everyday then was a torture! It was so hard to convince the buyers that they look good when erm.. they don't. I am totally blessed and happy to be able to sell what I love. Let me show you some of the items I recently listed!

This whole series is the latest! I love them all! Very rich in colors and fun designs!

Look at the sweet details on this tape. Lovely Parisian bakery theme!

If you are a Kawaii fan, you got to have these! Very very cute!!!!

I thought this is an excellent piece! Fun Little Red Riding Hood and Big Bad Wolf theme with super colorful and cute ice cream and other animals drawings too!

These two tapes are such opposite ! One is rich colorful multi designs square and the other awfully pretty with sweet pastel jewelry and floral lace designs!

I was really happy to find these pretty buildings design tape! They are transparent with beautiful details.

Aren't these two simply sweet? Lovely deer on polka dots design. Very Zakka!

These four rolls of paper tapes are really cute and preppy! I got them imported from Korea. So so cheerful!

Recently I am crazy about cotton tapes! I am trying to see if I can incorporated them in my handmade items but they are too pretty to use! Find them all here!

These round stickers are such darlings! Use them to decorate your bottle, boxes or packages!

The South Koreans are truly talented, if you see the whole range of stickers set they created you be amazed at their creativity!

This set is one of my best seller. Super cute and colorful!

Pony Brown is very well loved brand in Korea and overseas too. This is their LATEST set!

I specialize in food and animal stickers too! You can find over 500 different types of stickers in my store!

Another one of my great love! I really am amazed by today's stamp! There are every imaginable themes! I have over 180 style listed too!

I have so much more to show you but you can view all of my items here in my store! I wish I have more time to use all these fun items. Seriously I think I have enough to last me for generations! LOL! I do not know why I buy so much but then again I simply cannot resist!!!!LOL!

♥ BowMeOverBows - Featured Seller Series

2009-04-11T23:47:00.008+08:00

Tree Hugger Bow

Everyone knows you can find really pretty hair clips and bows for little girls and big girl ( like me ;P) on Etsy. I do feel it is a pretty saturated market and it can be hard to spot the really unique and well made hair clips when there are like hundreds of pages to choose from. I am therefore happy to find one whom I feel has very unique and pretty pieces! Her store BowMeOverBows is pretty new but she has got some really pretty hair clippies and bows!

I got some clippies from her and I love them! Very well wrapped and fast shipping too! I feel her store is different in the selection of ribbons and appliques she uses. I am glad to feature her this weekend on my blog! Read on to find out more about this fabulous seller!:)

Hugs and Kisses Bow

1) You do not make bows like an beginner! Come on, tell us how long you have been making these lovely clips?

Well, it all started one day back in August 2008, when I was recruited to make hair bows for my oldest daughter’s cheerleading squad. I started researching how to make hair bows on the web, and before I knew it I made my first bow! Well, I thought, “That was fun! I’ll make another!”, and so I made my girls Halloween hair bows, and I haven’t stopped making them since! My loving, VERY SUPPORTATIVE husband even constructed a “device” to help me hold my ribbon together while tying off each layer for the bow! But don’t ask me to see pictures of that, it’s a secret! Maybe we’ll patent it someday! :)

Keep The Earth Beautiful Clippie

2) How does each creation comes about? For example, do you start with an idea, then source for the material or the other way around?

Well, by looking at my shop you can easily tell that I LOVE to make hairbows!!! I buy all of my ribbon and embellishments personally and in small amounts to keep a constantly changing inventory! I love to mix and match colors, patterns and prints to come up with the beautiful bows you see in my shop! I am a perfectionist, and all of my products are made with great care and lots of attention to ensure they last and stay beautiful!

I’ve often been asked, “Where do you draw your inspiration from for your amazing designs?” Well, to answer this question honestly, I just shop for ribbon and embellishments that I love! When I come home I simply spread everything out and mix and match until I come up with exactly the combination that I like best! Most of the time the creative process happens over a couple of days, first I go through all my ribbons and embellishments and decide what few combinations I want to make pairing them up, and then I make the bows later! This way each step gets my “fresh, creative mind”! I can’t tell you enough how much I love both parts of the process, picking out the ribbon and embellishments and then the actual construction of the bow, because then I finally get to see what my creative ideas look like completed!

This Little Chickie Clippie

3) Do you sell your beautiful clips in other places other than Etsy? Where else can we find you?

For right now the only shop I have is on Etsy, www.BowMeOverBows.etsy.com , but I have started a facebook page and a flickr account where you can view pictures of some of my bows. Both of these pages are under BowMeOverBows. You can also reach me at bowmeoverbows@gmail.com

Bright Rock n' Roll Bow

4) And yes, we love to know more about you too! Tell us a little about your childhood, your career, your likes and dislikes.

I’m a stay at home mom, happily married for 10 years with two beautiful little girls, one who is 7, and the other who is 3. I have a degree in Elementary Education from Illinois State University, and I taught kindergarten for 7 years before I decided to stay at home with my girls. I’ve never really had a hard time coming up with creative ideas, I guess that’s just the teacher in me, but I never would’ve thought I’d be making little girl hair bows let alone opening my own shop on Etsy!!!

I am a MAJOR perfectionist and I love to do crafts! My mother always teases me because I’m good for pulling out all the craft stuff, you know, paint, glue, play dough, etc, on any given day with my girls usually before 9:00 in the morning!!! You can hear them all the time saying “Mommy, can we do a craft?” Our latest creation was little pom pom chickies in and eggshell base, which after my mother saw them she said “You should sell those on Etsy too!” I simply replied “One thing at a time mom!” LOL!!! Anyway, I like to think of myself as someone who can get along with anyone, and I am really enjoying meeting new people through Etsy!!! I am amazed at how many truly talented people there are out there crafting! I just love surfing Etsy to find cool stuff! Actually, today I just found some really neat people who make terrariums! (Don’t worry, I’ll list my favorites a bit later! :)

Take the Cake Birthday Bow

5) Lastly, please let us know what other hair accessories you are dazzling to show us! We love to know!

As far as new “works” in progress go, I’m currently working on bitty bows on headbands for infants, and a line of “doggy bows” for the pampered pooch! Watch for these up and coming new products!

Circle Of Love Bow

6) I am sure, like a lot of us, you love Etsy too. Want to share a few of your favorite sellers with us?

*berrysprite
*humblebee
*shopmayapapaya
*gingerblossoms
*nostalgiccorner
*Loloandbebe
*tvtrayart
*mylavaliere
*madebymavis
*GnomeHomes

Here Comes Peter Cottontail Clippie

It is truly enjoyable reading her story. Her hair clips and bows gives me the impression she is a very positive and cheerful lady. She must have taken a lot of effort to source for such wonderful ribbons! Do pop in and have a look at her store or say Hi to her, she is super friendly and nice!:)

♥Bliss Is

2009-04-11T17:38:00.007+08:00

a) enjoying my new kitten! Halley Boo is growing up really fast and it is fun to watch her developing her own character and personality. She is really feisty and as like all cats, always know the best place in the house to sleep. She is really sweet too, always being there just hanging around us, accompany us when we work or study!

She really knows how to make herself VERY comfortable..

Her very own faux fur bed.

Yes, she talks a lot too. She is telling me how she is crave for her favorite fish snack.

She loves to hang around on my lap while I surf!

She gets a bath every two weeks, she is really good, hardly struggle!

Yap, I was so amused to see her on her pink furry blanket, just keeping Beautiful Geek company when he is studying!
She like MTV too, after she ate, she actually would chill out here watching TV!
She loves my big white furry sweater!
Acting coy !

b) going to Melbourne!!!! My soul sister Lilien is migrating to Australia and she is hunting out jobs and apartments. I really wanted to spend some good quality girl time with her, this is a good time and chance to do so! Will be heading for Melbourne in May! If you guys have any places I MUST SHOP IN, please let me know!!!! Any Etsy sellers with B&M stores, please let me know! I would love to visit and SHOP!!

c) buying some fun stuff on ETSY!!! This week, I spend some money buying some items that I had been eying for awhile!

Lovely brooches! I had mention her in my earlier post and I can't wait to get them! By madeofjacinta

I love artandghosts ( who doesn't) and always wanted to own a print by her. Beautiful Geek thinks some of the prints are too dark and not suitable for the house but we both felt in love with this really sweet piece! YAY! It would look lovely in my study!Into the Wallpaper 1. version2 By Artandghosts

I had love this store Buttonempireand I got two keychains, one for me and one for Beautiful Geek, I think it makes a simple, inexpensive yet sweet gift for the occasion There-Is-No-Reason-Why-I-Suddenly-Buy-You-A-Gift-And-No-I-Did-Not-Max-Out-Your-Credit-Card-And-Yes-This-Gift-From-Me-Is-Paid-With-Your-Money-And-I-Love-You present~

HAH! I had a really nice days this week, it helps that the weather is finally warmer and I can go out for walks and just enjoy my neighborhood. Okay, I have to dash out for dinner. Look out for my post tomorrow, I am featuring a sweet hair bow Etsy seller!

KISSES AND HUGS~

♥ Bella Spain !

2009-04-07T00:36:00.015+08:00

Antennas in SevilleBy wearethree

I wanted to blog about a particular country sellers for the longest time! SPAIN! Oh,how I love their crafts and wonderful handiwork! There aren't much of them, I did a Local search and it came up only 9 pages of sellers. I feel they are one of the most colorful and vibrant culture around. I really want to go Spain one day but I always end up in France ( guilt trips...;P). Anyway, here are some of my favorites from various Spanish sellers. Let me take you on a trip to Spain wearing my old jersey tee shirt and cotton pants with my cat on my lap. Let me pretend I am from some fancy magazine and I am doing an Editor's Favorite Page. LOL!!!! This is one of the big perk of having my own blog! First we'll drink some sangria, stop for shoes, bags and accessories !

Strip Leather Baboush or Carpet SlippersBy MagiPrins .

Editor's Notes : Love the color combination and I always have this thing for soft looking leather. Good price too!

Lovely Little Red Riding Hood sneakersBy zampatillas.etsy.com

Editor's Notes : I am a fan of drawn on sneakers and but till now I can't seems to find a decent pair. These however looks really fun! I like the fact the cartoon are drawn and colored very neatly and nicely. I think I will seriously consider buying this pair.

Silk scarf natural hand painted with Oriental cat.By PalomaSiaDesigns

Editor's Notes : I am really excited to see this piece! It has got my favorite shade of pink and such pretty cat drawings! This store has a fine range of cats, dogs and nature theme items! Definitely one of my favorite piece for spring .

Silk scarf - Hand painted Red/Orange/Blue Abstract design

Silk brooch - Leaves

Both By gilbea

Editor's Notes : I always felt Spanish designer emphasis a lot on bold colors and classic clean elegant cut on their work. These two items are simply lovely, they look like they could have came from an expensive boutique. Will think about getting the brooch for my sister-in-law who work as a lawyer, this should compliment her jackets nicely.

CAMEO VICTORIAN Fascinator MTuent By mtuent.

ELLE Czechoslovakia Antique Bracelet FREE SHIPPINGBy mtuent

Editor's Notes : This shop is like heaven! Stock full of beautiful Victorian and pretty feathered fascinators! I really like this quaint headpiece , this crafter is in tune with the latest trend and also her very feminine culture by adding lace trim on it. The bracelet is so pretty! I sure would feel flirty wearing one!

All three brooches are by madeofjacinta

Click on the picture to go to the listings.

Editor' Notes : I went crazy in this store, just adding all these wonderful brooches in my cart! LOL! I super heart brooches! They are an inexpensive way to spice up and outfit. These are such head turners! I am totally in love now and yes, I think I will spurge on these this month! Maybe I would just eat cream cake for the rest of the week! LOL!

Now let's head to see fun craft, supplies, household items from Spain!

Original hand-painted fan.By PalomaSiaDesigns

Editor's Notes : Other than beautiful animal printed scarf, this seller also has really pretty hand paint fabric fan! This piece has Ode to the cat" Spanish written on the fan!

Sleeping cute Witch - sleep mask Pattern EyesBy lovelyart.etsy.com

Editor's Notes : This seller is known for her pretty eye masks! Check out her fun and sweet range of pop eye masks! Beauty sleep has never been taken so literally! I love this sweet soothing piece too! Sweet sweet colors, so soft and lovely eye drawings!

Herbal JournalBy susanholland

Editor's Notes : Many of my peers doesn't know this but I love cooking with herbs, any herbs! I have a whole collection of them , all sitting prettily on my shelf. I love how they smell, how they make me feel good, how when I add a few sprigs of them in my soup or sauce, instance sense of well being surfaces. This journal makes me want to jolt down all my herbs and all the cooking note I have been storing in my head for years. Perhaps it is time to record it down, I am not getting younger!

Handmade Artcards by Mariann Johansen-EllisBy mariannjohansenellis

Editor's Notes : I enjoy nice soft watercolors paintings and recently am becoming a serious collector. I find it makes me smile and my mind calmer. I am delighted by this sellers wonderful prints. There are a wide range of sweet animal cartoon prints to choose from. These cards are so nicely done! I want to buy it to write to myself!LOL!

A to Z, Hand Bound Journal in Red and BlueBy paperfection

Editor's Notes : Ain't this just preppy! I love how simple yet sweet this journal looks! Inside, it has sweet sweet colored pages too! I appreciate that cute little "Made With Love " bronze pendant at the spine of the journal. Awww...lovely !

Seaweeds for ACEOs, digital collage sheet by alganet
By AlgaNet

Editor's Notes : I don't use digital sheet but I wish I do!!! These scanned dry seaweed pressing sheet is so pretty! I love the colors and the details. This seller has wonderful range of seaweed theme art too! Really unique!

Little Teabag HouseBy Phizzychick

Editor's Notes : Ahhhhhh I shall leave you guys with this cup of tea and of course the sweet little Alice In Wonderland inspired tea tag! Add it as a decoration on the saucer when you next serve tea and I am sure your guest would be delighted!

Isn't life bella ! I really think I should make a trip to Spain in summer, sorry dearest Mother-In-Law, I love you and Paris but Spain is my soul sister too!

♥ IHeart Store On eCrater Now Opened!

2009-04-03T01:21:00.004+08:00

My new store at eCrater is opened! I am loading more and more items everyday! There would be sections for my card cases, planners, diaries, bags, pouch, house hold items and more! I am excited as I feel kind of free to list whatever I wanted! I mean, on Etsy, I can't list them as they are not handmade or supplies.

I always like eCrater for many reasons. Top reasons of course would be that it is free! I mean, they do not charge a listing fee nor do they take any fees when you sold an item! Another thing I like is the store layout, it is clean looking and simple to navigation.

What I LOVED most is the fact it is started and maintained by ONE person, Dimitar. I find it amazing that he would manage to create such a nice site to sell and does not charge any fees. He is always very fast to reply any emails and takes each suggestion seriously.

I used to sell my headbands there 2 years ago but stopped since I was too busy with my eBay store then. I remember asking him to add a "Hair Accessories" ( back when it first started, the categories were very little) . He did within 48 hours! I feel so touched that he bother to create a category for me so fast!

Now I am back again, I feel at home. I am truly amazed again, the site improved so much! I mean, there is "list similar item" buttons now, I now can load 10 pictures! Unlimited categories, and even Google Attributes are there for you to use!

I appreciate the fact he try to keep the site free of listings that violates any copyright. Sellers would be suspended immediately if found to be selling fake goods etc. I love the forums too, very friendly , very supportive sellers.

What is the catch then? Well, he just give us a space to start a store but we have to bring in our own traffic. I think that is rather fair. I mean, we all have to do our part to help promoting the site.

For those who wants to combine shipping within all my stores, it is totally okay. Just email me at iheart.shop@yahoo.com . I can let you know the combined shipping or any discount. I can also make a Special Listing for you either on Etsy or eCrater.

So I hope to see you guys on my IHeart eCrater store too!

♥ FINDER'S KEEPERS - April 1st Edition

2009-04-02T01:23:00.006+08:00

Today I did not have enough sleep and for some reasons I fun things much more funnier when I am dreadfully tired. I think there is a medical term for it but I am too lazy to find it. Instead I decide to do my Treasury.

Who need Etsy Treasure West ( turn nose up in obvious envy of those who manage to get one)! I can make my own and I am sure I do not have to stay up at godly time ( yes, I really mean godly time) to snag one and I can do it at my own pace and it will stay here on my blog FOREVER! *Evil laugh abit*.

Honestly I am very happy with this Treasury, I came across loads of really funky sellers! I was suppose to finish this post like 1 hours ago but I end up shopping on some of the stores and hence the delay. Here it goes! Sorry, I can only manage to screen print 12 items!

This treasury is to celebrate April's Fool Day and All Fool'sDay ( there is one, check my calendar and I will show you). I hope this will make some of you guys smile ( come on, smile! Smiles are free ! :D).

My ratings and comments :

♥ -> Wonderful
♥♥-> Drop dead gorgeous
♥♥♥ -> Cry with happy joy
♥♥♥♥ -> Will think about robbing a bank just to have it!
♥♥♥♥♥-> Will think nothing about robbing a bank just to have it!

1) PRINT - Map of Sea of Laughter, Western Shore By paintandink. You know, I love maps. I don't really know why but perhaps it is because I like to know where I am all the time or perhaps I am a really male and do not like asking for directions. Either way, this map is too pretty! Oh, as I stare at it , I was really amazed to see what she had drawn! Very original, very cheerful! She has wonderful range of imaginary maps too! Rate : ♥♥♥

2) Gift Of Education-1 Inch Pinback Button Trio, Proceeds Go To Unicef buttonempire. I remember wanting to buy her really fun Husband and Wife button pins as a cute Valentine's Day present for Beautiful Geek but I forgot to add her to my favorite and was very sad then not to be able to go back to her really fun store. I manage to hunt her store down today and yes, I am so going shopping! Very cute and funny buttons! I love her style! Proceeds for this set of buttons would go to UNICEF, very kind seller! Rate : ♥♥♥♥

3) A 'Random Acts of Kindness' seminar inspires Wally to beat up a masochist By wallywarepottery. I always enjoy word play and very dry humor, this really makes me laugh out loud deep inside. Very talented artist, this store has really nice plates and mugs. Very funny too!!! I hope they would consider selling Internationally. Rate : ♥♥♥♥

4) Vincent Van Gogh Mouse - International shipping By TheHouseOfMouse. OOOOOOOHHHHH, you guys got to see this store!!!! Very very cute and cheerful! Full of little handmade toy mice in various famous character costume!!! I also love the Yoda mouse! Rate : ♥♥♥♥

5) SALE Damaged Birdbrain Hillbilly plate trio. By trixiedelicious. Heeheeheee, this store has hilarious hand painted crockery! Check out her vintage porcelains items, I love them all!!! I should get one of those Tree Hugger bowl, so cool! Rate : ♥♥♥♥♥

6) 10x8 Print - Death By ChocolateBy DanJackson. I am a huge fanatic fan of CSI and this reminds me of the episode where there is this sociopathic girl who does miniatures house , places of the victims she killed. Very cool, very literal and I like the policeman detail . Rate : ♥♥♥♥

7) Sole Sister-The Sister who loves shoes By nunofakind.etsy.com. My ultra favorite item!!!! This store has a really sweet and fun range of nun dolls! Not your usual nuns by far! I appreciate the fact she humanize them , I known a few nuns in my life and they are not just God's angels but also very real too. This Sole Sister piece speaks to me as I think she is one of my personalities! Rate : ♥♥♥♥♥

8) When the air thickens, so should the plot....Set of 3 Literary Lites By dippylulu. It is impossible to exclude this artist when it comes to humor! It just keeps getting better! This set of matches are in classic books design with a twist in the title. It is kind of sad the matches itself can't be shipped internationally. I love the gorgeous color of these matches! Perhaps I should buy the boxes anyway and put my own matches. Rate : ♥♥♥♥

9) Lunchbag Combo Pack - 5 Wanna Trade and 5 Mine Mine Mine By SupergirlStickers. I always love lunch bags! It is too bad Singapore does not have this culture of bringing food in a bag to work or school. I always thought it is such a sweet idea! This store has cute paper lunch bag and does custom work too. Perhaps I should start packing lunch for Beautiful Geek but I bet he thinks I have gone retro mad again. LOL!Rate : ♥♥♥

10) Foonie Doll soft and fuzzy Plushie with Velcro PocketBy polinakanevsky. After looking at this super cheerful Foonie Doll, I went and ate an orange. I guess anything that makes me eat fruit should be good for me! LOL! This store is loaded with fun colorful Foonie Dolls. I love the colors! Guaranteed to make you smile on a cloudy day! :) Rate : ♥♥♥♥

11) Got Rack Humorous Vinyl Decal By empressivedesigns. No, I don't have a rack, MUAHAHAH but I am brainy ;p. This shop has a wonderful selection of fun witty decals. I mean, it is nice to decorate with sweet, predictable decals but much better and more impact with one of these humorous ones! Rate : ♥♥♥♥

12) Knitters Buttons By pepsy. This I know, never cross a knitter, they can do a lot of damage with that two long knitting needles! This store might be new and there is not much items yet , I do hope the seller continue to make more fun buttons! Perfect gift for a passionate knitter! :) Rate : ♥♥♥♥

Thanks guys for sharing my Treasury! I do enjoy making them! It is like walking on a very long street on a bright sunny day and found some colorful marbles, old coins, half eaten sandwich, a piece of Joker card, a doll's head, 3 metal bottle caps , a piece of ribbon and of course the obligatory gum under the shoe, totally awesome!

♥ Married For 431 Days So Far And..

2009-04-01T23:04:00.011+08:00

I always considered myself very blessed to have my prayer answered regarding the kind I want to married. Beautiful Geek seems practically tailor made for me! LOL! I am brutally honest with God when I prayed and ask for the following criteria (pardon my grammar but I talk to God in our own slangs and ways, He gets it) :

a) "Please give me a handsome and cute looking guy, I mean I have to see this man everyday, every night.. you know, I am curse with being visually orientated above all things".-> Yap, my husband is really cute, so cute, I am not worried that other girls would go for him because the gays are much faster to approach him first.

b) "Please let him be smart , like super smart but not that creme of the crop smart, like quietly kind of smart, like not shoot off the mouth smart, just dignifiedly smart." -> Yes, my husband is super smart, that kind of water runs deep kind of smart. Best thing he doesn't know it , he does suspect it but I think he is also very humble not to brag about it.

c) "Please let him be reasonable well off. I mean, God, you know all the dates and all the dates I had been to, for once, I would love to eat in a fine restaurant once a while, watch a world renowned plays, buy a piece Tiffany jewelry once in a blue moon. I had my shares of paying for half or all the meals, going Dutch plenty of times when going to the movies, being groped in a cinema cause boyfriends still stays with their parents or hotels are too expensive. I am also sick and tired of eating in noisy food courts where I have to declare my love over a plate of chicken rice. I mean... I cherish those moments but really.. I want a free meal with all my strings attached please." -> Well , my husband is not rich but he has a decent pay and I do get a fine meal every 2 months and 1 piece of fine jewelry every one year and a half. I never paid for my food now and that is really nice.

It is a truth universally acknowleged - Jane Austen quote - letterpress cardBy letterarypress

d) "Please let him be someone who has inspiration and passionate about his life and job. I do love hanging at the park and void decks of my flat with my ex boyfriends talking about the best way to do a slide of hands or play with skateboards but I would love to do something meaningful and useful with them too. Don't get me wrong, the last boyfriend does have some inspiration, he wanted to earn more money to buy a new fishing rod. It is good but it would be nice if he wants to work harder to buy a fish farm.:"-> My husband always reads a lot and am always thinking of ways to improve his work. He is always doing some kind of project with his own time ( translate : I have no idea what he is really doing but I know he is doing something that does not involve a credit card or shades of pink) and that I love him for it.

e) "Please let him have a job that I do not understand." -> This is a running joke with my friends half the time, we cannot really described what our boyfriends or husband does for a living. And yes.... it took me 4 years to kind of half understand what my husband is doing.

Let me try to explain. I know he is

a) an engineer
b) an automotive engineer
c) an automotive engineer who design mufflers
d) an automotive engineer who design mufflers and ...

Here is the problem .. what the hell is a mufflers? He tried to show me diagrams, pictures, graphs , in charades etc and I simply cannot place it. I mean I know now what is a muffler, it is a very important part of a car that makes a car quiet. Without a muffler, the car would be really noisy!

Ok.

But to devote a whole industry to it? I was truly shock! I mean, what is so difficult? It is all a calculations of loops and how many turns the metal tubes have that decide how quiet the car would be. I can explain it all now but shan't bored you with it. Beautiful Geek's company has a huge department just researching and developing multi twisted metal tubes and loops to make a car shut up.

They dream By yaelfran

I am so not a car person. To me, it is a very threatening object. Full of metals and pvc, loads of knobs and mirrors that does not flatter me in anyways. And it is normally in boring colors like silver, black or white.

Still, after ALOT of explanations by Beautiful Geek ,I am quite impressed actually and that lead me to daydream abit about other automotive departments. I am not sure if they exist but I pretended they did.

YES, ADAPTING IS KEY BUT WE MUST KEEP FLYING METEORITES ON OUR MIND. (Dino) Kitten in the Engine - USA organic cotton tshirt by KittenInTheEngine

Like the windshield department. I imagine there would be a big lab with loads of windshields and people just keeps throwing things at them. Like first a ping pong ball, then a basketball and finally 20 bowling balls to test the strength of the glass. They would jump on it, dance on it, walk on it like 3000 times to see what would happen if there should be a stampede.

But I think the ultimate goal of a good windshield is how mosquito proof it would be. I mean, what is the probability of one's car in a stampede? Have you ever travelled in car at the speed of 90km/hr and watched how the poor mosquitoes get smashed helplessly against the windshield? I get so annoyed when I have to scrap off the blood and the decapitated mini bodies , I mean, ewwww , I do not mind a whole dead mosquito but not just one third of it's reminder.EW.

I can imagine the Head Of Windshield Department going "our target for the year 2009 is 3 and half mosquitoes , one or two wings extra is okay. " Lay more wax gentlemen!

Next, how about the tires design department? Do they have a room full of hippy cool art graduates who sit at big sparkly white desk thinking of what other tire thread designs would be the best ? Shall it be more closely knitted criss cross designs, wide bold stripes, polka dots , argyle, double lined grid pattern or *gasp* perhaps some flowers design to enthralled the ever growing female consumers ?

Maybe the tire is best use for this! Digital Prints Good Ol' Days by GlobalArt

Then, the rim designers. *Giggle*, I can imagine one them introducing himself " Hi, I am Stok, I am a Rim designer ". LOL! How sexy that can sound! HAHAHAHAHAHA! Out of deepest respect for all readers , I will not continue to elaborate on this.

Oh, forgive me if I offended any readers. Making jokes about things are the way I try masked my fear and ignorance. *chuckle

Point is, I marvel at today's cars, they are safely, slicker, quieter, prettier than before but I will never really be a fan unless they can come up with a car that is the right shade of pink, flower design on the tire threads, insect proof , smell like Chanel No.5 , and of course a 3 x 3 meter truck to put all my shopping bags!

All in all I do love being married to an engineer, especially one who wears really nice bum hugging jeans all the time. *wink

Micro Circuit Pour Moi - hi-tech glass pendant By BigHelmetHead.etsy.com

The below pros and cons are all so true!

Top Ten Reasons To Date an Engineer

1. The world does revolve around us... We pick the coordinate system.
2. Find out what those other buttons on your calculator do.
3. We know how to handle stress and strain in our relationships.
4. Parents will approve.
5. Help with your math homework.
6. Can calculate head pressure.
7. Looks good on a resume.
8. Free body diagrams.
9. High starting salary.
10. Extremely good looking

Top Ten Reasons NOT to Date an Engineer

1. T-shirt and jeans are their formal dress. Hot dog and a six-pack is their seven-course meal.
2. The only social life known of is to post and talk on the net.
3. Flames like a monster and speaks like a pussycat.
4. Works from 6:30am to 7:30pm daily. No morning kisses and no evening walks.
5. No matter how hard you cry and how loud you yell, he just sits there calmly discussing your emotion in terms of mathematical logic.
6. Only listens to classic rock. Hates everything from Bach to Prince.
7. Touches his car more often than you.
8. Talks in acronyms.
9. Can't leave that damn pencil off his ear for a minute.
10. Will file a divorce if you call him in the middle of debugging.

Picture and Tens Reasons jokes are taken from http://www.gdargaud.net/Humor/Engineer.html#Date

♥ Congrats To My First Blog Winner!!!!

2009-03-30T18:21:00.005+08:00

Woah, big cuppa of entries!
This few weeks was really fun! I had hold this contest on the 3rd March as a way of saying "Thanks!" for supporting my store and for the great sales I had in February. The responses was really awesome!

Halley Boo making sure no entries are left out.
Halley Boo decided to help mix the entries too.

I had so many convos and emails from readers and buyers who said such positive things and wonderful comments about my store. I am truly grateful! I really hope I can give away more than 1 prize today , maybe next time I would try to have multiple winners!

It is quite a lot of work, making sure all the entries are in. As you guys can see, Halley Boo helped too! Beautiful Geek is the one to pick the winner.

I am very happy to announce the winner of this giveaway is

Here It Is ! The Winner!

Closer look please. CONGRATS S.V From Netherlands!

I will be contacting the winner via email today.:D
Thanks to those who make the effort to join and support me in this giveaway. Love-Jessie

♥ Featured Seller Sakizome And Her Lovely Bags !

2009-03-28T00:33:00.017+08:00

Click To Enter Her Fabulous Store!

Spring Breeze Clutch

Okay, by now, you guys might have figured out I am quite a "collector" ( nicer word for addict). If I like something, normally I go all the way out and amass as many as I can. I am a bag "collector" too. I think I have over 200 bags! All sorts! Gigantic, huge, large, medium, small, mini, invisible ones too!HAHA! I have totes, overnighters , luggage, pouches, purses, wallets etc etc you get the drift.

Therefore ( clear throat, put on my glasses and look serious), I am quite the expert on bags. I pride myself as able to spot a bag worth it's money in thread count as far as 500 meter away. This is a skill fine tune to highly professional standards thanks to living in a fast pace city where I do not have a lot of time for shopping or patience for entertaining mediocre poorly made bags. I am pleased to tell you guys, there is an excellent bag artist and crafter among us in Etsy.

Busy Knitting Pouch

This post is alll about a wonderful wonderful Etsy seller Sakizome who makes the loveliest bags!!! I had eyed her store for quite awhile because I love the fabric she used. I was not keen to buy at first because I am afraid it might not be as good as what is shown on the pictures ( trust me, I have had bad experiences before) . I caved in last week because I simply love the fabric on this bag so I ask her to custom make it bigger for me. Her response is fast, professional, positive and very very friendly. I was relieved as I am worried she might not be able to make it. In 36 hours, she told me my bag is ready. I was apprehensive. So fast? I thought. Well. Okay then. I mean, it is not an expensive bag and if I don't like it, I can give it away later.

Afternoon Cafe Shoulder/Handbag

It turns out to be one of the best bag I have bought on Etsy so far ( see the picture above , that is my bag!!) ! I was truly astounded by the beautiful workmanship! To me, it is better to use cheap fabric but good workmanship than to use expensive fabric and but lousy workmanship ( I am aware I used "workmanship" 3 times, I am sorry but I can't think of any other words at this time:p) . The fabric is rich and thick, the lining also superior quality and very very nice prints! The seams, the stitches, the sewing all are so professional done! I felt like I just step out of a Japanese bag store!

The strap and the zip are of boutique quality! I show it to Beautiful Geek and he said he had thought I got it for USD 70!!! I show it off to my friends and got loads of compliments! They are rather envious I must say ( silly to be envious, just go buy one!!) .
Happy Day Purse- She has them in smaller sizes and coin pouches too!

I personally feel she priced her bags too low ! The cloth and material she uses are not the usual quality I see in normal stores. The prints and patterns she uses are very unique too! What I like best about her store is that there are a really nice range of bags to choose from! Not just handbags, there are clutch, pouches, wristlets, totes and coin purses too! I felt that she is one artist who is not afraid to try new things and am very up to date with the current styles.

I asked if I can featured her and am so glad she agreed. She is so so nice to talk to too! I am honor that she is willing to use some of her busy time to talk about her craft and let us have a peep in her life.

In the Park Pouch

♥Tell us a bit about yourself name, location, affiliations, personal stuff please.

I live in Singapore although I have variously lived in England, in Malaysia and in California. I am lucky to be surrounded by greenery at home: bamboo and palm trees, fig trees, eucalyptus trees, and many more. Of course I am also surrounded by rooms full of fabric, embroidery threads and buttons!

♥ Apart from creating beautiful things, do you have a full time job too?

I actually have a day job which I love. It is demanding and great fun. It requires me to travel but it has also meant that I have met many fascinating people from all over the world. And of course it helps fund my passion for fabric.

Spring Breeze Clutch

♥ What first made you want to become an artist?

I grew up such a nerd. I loved reading and studying. At university in England I discovered that my boyfriend only wore jumpers that had been handknitted by his mother. I could not be outdone! I decided that I had to learn to knit and soon knitted more than a lifetime supply of complex sweaters. Naturally he wore them all and of course I married him! I treasure all his mother's jumpers and still keep them very carefully. The knitting transitioned into embroidery and the embroidery into sewing, mainly by hand. I love making complex hand appliqued and embroidered quilts.

My husband and 3 sons soon decided that there was nothing I could leave alone: I embroidered all over their clothes, and even the curtains at home had were embroidered. Our home looks like a gallery with with my quilts on every wall, even in the bathrooms. Of course the beds were all covered with my quilts long ago. Indeed, we sometimes say we built our present house so that I could have more space to better display my quilts. They are spectacular, or at least my sweet family think so.

Sunflowers - Embroidered Linen Pouch

♥ Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

I can only make something if the fabric, threads, etc speak to me and I can assure you that they call out to me all the time. I usually dream - both day dream and otherwise about what I might do and then I start sketching, making rough notes on dimensions and other pointers to myself along the way. Then I start experimenting till I get the outcome I am looking for. I am fussy about quality, although I like everything I make to look handmade.

♥ What handmade possession do you most cherish?

This one is easy - the first jumper I ever knitted for my then boyfriend, now husband - a grey alpaca jumper. The knitting is not very even and I have come a long long way in terms of skills and inspiration but it was a transformative experience and made me realise that there was an artistic side to this nerd.

Blue Wheels Pouch

♥ Where is your favorite countries/ places?

Kyoto for its history, Tokyo for its vibrancy, Oxford, England as I have many memories of growing up there, Cambridge, England where I fell in love and learnt to knit and sew and of course, sunny Singapore.

Red Apple Orchard Pouch

♥ What is the motto/s you live by?
This is not a motto but I know that I need to sew, to make something beautiful, everyday! :)

Rulers Card Wallet

Thanks Sakizome for an enjoyable interview. I love hearing other people's life stories, it always makes motivated me in some ways. I truly am overjoy with my bag and I start to understand what my mother who is a seamstress used to says " when you carry a good quality handmade bag, you will feel like a million dollars". I did. :)

♥ MY NEW FABRICS!!!!

2009-03-28T00:09:00.004+08:00

Oh my goodness! Today i am so excited I don't even need coffee!!!! All my new fabric arrived today! I am astounded by how many I bought, I think there are over 50 new pieces! I am one of those people who if I see something I like, I buy it in all the colors available!

One of the best thing about living in Shanghai is that there are soooooooo many online stores, I just need to make a cup of coffee, surf and click click click, pay and voila! Next thing I know, the stuff I order arrive right at my doorsteps in 36 hours!

I am such a fabric junkie. No joke, don't ever EVER let me in a fabric store with a credit card! Even if I do not have money, I would ask my friends to lent me, if I am a lone, I would go home, get my purse and go back again. I must have them! Hence, that is why I stay far far away from any fabric store possible! Of course, erm.. hee... I shop online! Oh but nevermind me, I am so happy, I took pictures of some of them. So sorry for bad lighting, the sun set earlier than expected ( so is my excuse ;P).

I am a total zakka addict. I see anything remotely zakka style, I go crazy! I love that feeling, I cannot really describe but that soothing, peaceful vibes I get from it. I have over 300 fabrics and each of them is my prized possession. I use them to make my buttons but everytime I cut a piece, my heart aches. It is silly, the only reasons I bought them is because I want to my buttons! I love making buttons! So therapeutic and I love the creative process!

This batch of fabric is just so awesome! I really love the ones with words, stories style! I will use them for my next batch of buttons for my buttons store. If I have a lot more, I will just carried them in my purse and admire them on and off ( just kidding, I am a addict, not a pervert!) LOL!

♥ A Quickie !

2009-03-26T23:40:00.007+08:00

Buy Handmade Damn It - www.etsy.com - White Vinyl Sticker with Black Text

A quick blog updates here!

♥ I am updating my blog contest as fast as I can. HURRY! THREE MORE DAYS TO WIN USD 100 store voucher!!!! I am super super excited, my big polka dot cup is filling up fast with entries! On March 30th , the winner will be notified by email and also I will announced the news here. I am not going to put the real name, just the initial and country to protect the winner's privacy.

♥ I am removing my diaries, card cases and some other items which does not fit in Etsy categories to my new store soon! It was a case of blind leading the blind. I saw other stores listing planners and card case and thought it is okay, so I listed them too. But I felt uneasy about it and indeed Etsy told me it is not allowed . So I decided to move all non supplies or handmade stuff to my new store ( will announce here the site!).

I had wanted to sell other stuff for a long time. First to try to source for more is the Zakka pouches and bags which I had put on trial selling here on my blog. The responses is really good! I am glad many readers like them too!:) I will keep looking out for them and they will be sold on my new store.

♥ My handmade buttons store will be closed when the last listing expired. I will bring them over to my IHeart store. I love my buttons store but the traffic there and the competition is too fast and tough for me to catch up. Buttons can take a lot of time to make and I can't devoted more time to it so I rather put them on IHeart, this way, hopefully more buyers can see them. I can also offer more range and style. Look out for them sweeties!:)

♥ I am very excited about this blog. I was worried I would find it a chore to update but instead I come to appreciate it as my own journal. To continue to check in . I plan to feature a lot of sellers here and also show you my fun finds on Etsy. If you are a seller and would like me to feature you, please let me know! I would love to work with you!:)

Thanks again for all who left comments ( erm... it is not that I do not want to reply, I don't know how to reply to comments on blogs yet, please let me know if you know how!!) emails and follow my little blog ! I appreciate the support greatly! Till then, have a wonderful day!:)

Cheers!
Jessie

♥ It Is A GIRL!!!!

2009-03-26T23:06:00.006+08:00

Hello Halley Boo!

The last few days were absolutely CRAZY and HAPPY for me! I had wanted a kitten for the longest time. My family are super avid cat lovers and there are 4 cats in my home in Singapore. My parents had started by rescuing wounded strays and gradually adopt some of them. In Seoul, I used to take care of a really friendly and sweetest German cat for my friends when they were away for the holidays. I yearned for one here , my very own.

Look how peacefully she sleeps in Beautiful Geek's arms.LOL
In her little pink carrier!

Therefore I was really happy that my postal office friend found one for me. He has a friend whose cat gave birth to 6 kittens and once they were wean off milk, he gave one to me for adoption. IT IS A GIRL!!! Now now, I love boys too, boys are much better tempered and fun to play with but girls, they are so sweet and demur! I love taking pictures of them with a small hair clip placed ( not clip on) their head. So cute!!

It was amazing how fast she found a good spot on Space Ji Ji and promptly felt asleep!
She also likes sleeping in her sand box *shrug*
Her name is Halley Boo. She is about 5 weeks old and very very affectionate! The first day I got her, she was nicely snuggling up to me and Beautiful Geek. She is intelligent too! I just need to show her once how to use the litter box, she caught on immediately. She loves to play and is crazily active. Like most cats, a piece of plastic sheet can entertain her for more than 30 mins!

I am spending a lot of time with her now as she is still very young. She needs a lot of attention and love. I am carrying her in a little cloth backpack and hang the back in front of me. This way, I can work abit and she is always near my body. Don't worry, my office is separately from the apartment so there should not be cat's fur at all in my stock!LOL!

How tiny she is beside Space Ji Ji!

How tiny she is beside Space Ji Ji!
Not too happy to pose with my hairclips.. ;p

Yes... like a proud mummy, I took a lot of pictures and videos! I know she would grow up really fast and I want to make sure I get all the moments with her. It is strange to have a pet on my own honestly. I was really quite apprehensive, not sure if I will be able to give her the love she needs but I figured out that it would do me and Beautiful Geek good to let someone else in our lives. We are such city people and am so use to attending to just our own needs, we are slowly becoming a little selfish. It may sound like a selfish reason, to use an animal to help us grow. But this is my truth.

I have been blessed with so much, I often wondered why. Now I know, so that I can give away. Althought I am confident in the end, the kitten will be one of our best teacher in life. I know I love her like my own already.:)

♥More Deco Tapes Pictures And One Very Special Lady Artist !

2009-03-23T23:13:00.013+08:00

As you guys know, I might, most probably, could be, perhaps have one of the largest collection of DIY deco sticker tapes on Etsy. This crazy love with deco tape just never ends! I remembered being in Singapore, having a nice time with Beautiful Geek looking for some camera lens and then I saw a craft store. Instinctive I headed for the store and yes , THERE ARE DECO TAPES! Beautiful Geek knows that look in my eyes and know better to resist.

Without a word, I march to the counter, ask for a trolley but they only have basket ( how can you expect your store to do well without a shopping cart???). Grabbed a basket and literally sweep the whole shelf of deco tapes off it. Went straight to the cashier , paid and just grin like as if I am told I have a piece of something green between my front tooth . Beautiful Geek, ever the gentleman, noticed the SOMETHING GREEN IN TEETH GRIN, again, resist the urge to ask how we are going to lug all of them back to Shanghai. I once lugged 40 old books from Amsterdam to Singapore. DUHZ. This is nothing.

So anyway, I had a wanted to show you guys some of my tapes. I know I know you had seen them in my store but the light is nice today and TOTO ( very ultra cute little Totoro soft toy) wants to take picture too. So we had a fun day! Yes yes I know I am not 5, yes yes I know, I am too childish, yes yes I know TOTO cannot possibly have a mind of it's own and cannot possibly like to be taken photo of. Yes I know all that but the truth is the truth. I am 5 years old in my behavior ( I have seen adults who behave much worse) and childish and Toto is a living thing. It is what it is.

Then of course, the rest want to join it. I love Beanies and hand puppets ! It is so so terribly hard for me to walk past a store selling Beanies and not buy one! I have to be careful though because I tend to collect soft toys and after a few years, I would throw them away because I simply have no space. I feel it is a little like having a pet. Soft toys which are neglected can be very sad somehow.. I am not saying they are alive and they have rights but I feel everything little mini things have a purpose in life and soft toys are meant to be cuddle and provided comfort, not thrown away just because they are dirty/ old/ useless.

Hah, so I have Robin, Tally, Mocha, Carrot And Orange here, all happily posing for pictures! These collections would be my fabric and paper tapes!

I really love my fabric tapes! I always use them to decorate my cards and envelopes. I am starting to use them for pinning up my notes and memos on my board. Much prettier and more interesting than magnets or pins. I hope to use them to make into pretty little boxes later. Below are my paper tapes! I love them too!

I personally love my paper tapes the most. Reasons being they are rather hard to find and I like the feel of paper. I love to admire them sometimes and daydream how I would use them! I know I know I should just use it but they are so precious, I find it hard to open the package unless something really worthy comes along! Knowing me.. I would in the end just give them away. I hate to see things not use to their fullest potential and if someone comes along who is very crafty, I would not mind giving them away. But now, I want to keep them for a while longer...;)

So there is my gang! LOL. They do make me laugh during this shoot! I mean, they are just so adorable! If there are really animals this sizes , I would love to keep them!

NEXT!!!!! One Very Very Special Lady Artist !

Now, let me introduce an artist I really admire. Ok, it is not that I put this section to the end without a reason but after seeing the above tapes , you might ask "how can I use it for craft?". Personally, like I said before, I am a hoarder and a miser sometimes. I have so many tapes but I just refuse to waste a single one . I like to keep them in their nice seal package and admire them like a pervert (*wink).

Anyway, I know this lady , she sure uses them well!!! She may not even need any introduction as she should be very well known in the deco tapes collector's group. Her name is Kelly Kilmer and she is a mixed media artist and workshop instructor. You can read her blog here kellykilmer.blogspot.

What I really like about her is that she is a very passionate woman, very focus, very kind and talented. I often browse through her journal pages on her blog when I need some inspiration. She uses deco tapes as one of her tools and I love the way she bashfully slash them across , generously lining them , layering them, mix and matching tape to compliment her theme. I love her selection of images too! I mean my goodness, she really has a way to send her message across in her very own way. I think it is a really healthy and therapeutic way of expressing oneself.

From her work, I just know she is a strong, free spirit and very positive person! The best thing is, you can learn how to make these wonderful pages too!!!! She has an awesome online class! http://kellykilmer.blogspot.com/2009/02/prompt-day-online-mixed-media-art.html

I thought it was really innovative and kind of her to offer classes on how to make journal pages for such a reasonable fees! If you read the course details, it is really very exciting! Like having your own personal instructor with you and you do not even have to leave your doorsteps!

I love my convos with her , she is very friendly! I just wish I can load all her wonderful journals pages her on my blog but there are too many wonderful ones! Go go see her blog! She sometimes teaches at some states ( lucky people, the Americans!) and maybe she might be holding a class in yours! All in all, thanks Kelly for allowing me to blog about you and use your photos, thanks for making the world a better place!:)

♥ I Miss Myself

2009-03-23T02:39:00.010+08:00

Ice Creamy Dreamy - Fine-Art Holga Print By stoopidgerl

Today, I have some time on my own and suddenly was feeling a little .. homesick. I mean, I always miss Singapore my home but I miss another "home". I miss my "secret place within myself". You know, that place inside you, one only you truly know you are at home? So deep, so private, so mystery that even if you want to invite someone in, they may not dare to enter. I have been so crazily busy these few months, I neglect it badly. No wonder I feel a literally a little not myself, a little of out place these days.

I love my Hiding Place. It is an amazing amazing place. It is so big, so vast, it is bigger than the Universe or the Galaxies and their Suns and Moons. It is so huge but yet so gentle, never pushy. It is quiet and loud, peaceful and chaotic, funny and serious, wise and foolish, sly and honest, passionate and indifferent , sinking and floating, shrewd and innocent, a slave and a master, a child and her monster under her bed all at the same time.

The things, memories, every feelings, experiences, failures, successes, odds and bits of little treasures I collect on my life journey, I store in there. I do not have a lot of space in my real personal life but ah... I have no fear of leaving anything out in my Hiding place.

I cultivate this Hiding Place at the age of 4. Vivid memories of me then , standing in sunlight, wearing a new dress my mum made for me, hair in two ponytails, not very comfortable in front cameras ( and still am not). I remember even as the camera snapped, I feel a strong clear voice in my little self saying " my... isn't life grand, I think I am going to start hanging around for a little while". And so it became.

I am blessed to have a wonderful childhood and parents that puts playing first more than studies. I played with my friends all the time! Ahh.. the things me and Valerie did when we were young. We went everywhere, did everything, believe in all we wanted , there were truly no limits. None.

Even as I grew, I often retreat to my Hiding Place a lot. I am very curious and inquisitive but I dislike asking people for answers, I often feel the answers given are very subjective and it is dangerous to accept it just like that. I prefer to go "inside", think, analysis, chew, dismantle, fix, throw out stupid and useless parts which is not true. I spend hours hours in my room, reading searching for answers, learning from great men and women who wrote books. I avoid joining any Religion, Organization, Clubs, Committee etc as I feel it would just limit my thoughts and keep me away from what this wonderful world has to offer.

It is difficult as that means I am mostly alone. I do have great great friends but they know better than to try to get me on to any sides. Being alone is a small payoff to what I have seen, experience and above all feel. *smile. I guess that is why I am never afraid of death. I know where I am going when I die. That allows me to see everything in this world as so temporal, so fragile , so precious and above all so funny. I know some stuff are not funny at all. I grieve alot in my Hiding Place too, Life is so short, I do not spend precious time grieving and stop living or ask useless questions like "Why them? ", "Why is life so unfair?" . "Why that wonderful vintage purse on Etsy is sold so fast!! I really wanted it!!!" etc. I do the grieving all inside , maybe that is what it means to have a heavy heart.

DJ NECKLACE nuff saidBy sharonna

So today, I put own my dusty headphones and put on some of my favorite songs and close my eyes, I am going back to my Hiding Place. I always love Deep Dish, Trainspotting Soundtrack, Underworld and Gorillaz . These 4 CDS are ones I must have at all times.

Let me share you these songs which lyrics I love and they always makes me smile. Honestly.. I feel the music quality are better on a disc than on a video.

Miles End- Pulp

Stranded-Deep Dish

Jumbo-Underworld

Are We The Last Living Souls- Gorillaz

Funny, how a 4 minutes song can make me travel at the speed of light, fly past all the galaxies and land in my very own wonderland. Should I describe it? Maybe one day when we have all the time in world. *wink

♥ Pretty Zakka Style Big Purses !

2009-03-20T00:32:00.005+08:00

Aww..... when I first saw these bags , I just grab them and throw the money at the seller and ran. Then I realize there is no reason for me to run as I paid in full and well, it is just my imagination that someone would snatch them away from me! So I try to save what's left of my prose and walk slowly to hail for a taxi. They are soooo pretty it hurts! Same series as the Momo pouches but in shoulder bag style!

I show you the pictures first, please scroll down to read the details, the measurements and price.

Momo Zakka Style Big Shoulder Purse

A) Sweet Pastel Yellow With Small Grey Polka Dots And Roses
B) Pretty Green With Polka Dots
C) Pretty Cream With Polka Dots
D) Sweet Light Rose Pink With Little Brown Ribbon Bow And Flowers ( Sorry , I can't find the stock picture, so I took them on my own).

♥ Material : Made of thick floral or polka dots cotton cloth. There is a sweet cream lace trim at the bottom part of the bag. Inside, it is lined with soft cotton cloth and there is a small pocket too! Comes with a sturdy light gold color metal closure. Straps are made of faux leather and held nicely at both end by thick metal hook.

♥ Measurement : They measures approx 7.5 inches tall, 11 inches at it's widest point and base is 3 inches wide. Really nice size! Big enough to be notice instantly and put your purse, wallet, cellphone, bunch of keys, compact, lipstick, 1 large roll of deco tape and 1 Chihuahua ( ok ok, a Chihuahua polymer clay miniature). Strap drop is approx 11.2 inches. Nice length for shoulders. I prefer to carry on my forearm, a little long but not uncomfortable and very casual chic!

♥ Price : USD 24 each and the shipping USD 8.50 . Just email me at iheart.shop@yahoo.com, remember to tell me which design you want to buy and your shipping address. I would sent you an invoice via Paypal. The shipping is via China Registered Post. I would so dearly love to sell them at my Etsy store but they are not handmade nor supplies.

♥ More Zakka Japanese Inspired Pouches! :D

2009-03-19T23:54:00.010+08:00

LATEST : I have listed all of my bags on my new store at eCrater! See the full range at

http://iheart.ecrater.com/

I got more wonderful Zakka style Japanese bags and pouches! Since the last batch sold pretty well ( thank you guys for sharing this obsession of mine!), I decide to list more! I would try to make it more organized as I have quite a few more designs! Please scroll down after each series to see the measurements and prices.

Please note that I am not a supplier! I just have a healthy obsession for bags ( I think I owe over 150 bags, that's healthy for this era right?) and I like to see if anyone like them too. I only have the maximum 3 pieces of each designs.

Momo Floral Cotton Pouch Series
A) Dark Blue With Sweet Red Flowers
B) Sweet Green With Polka Dots
C) Preppy Brown Red Cream Plaids
D) Lovely Light Blue Strips With Sweet Blue Yellow Flowers
E) Natural Brown With Pretty Fruits Branch---- > SOLD OUT
F) Dark Blue With Sweet Retro Orange And Blue Flowers
G) Sweet Pastel Yellow With Grey Mini Polka Dots And Roses
H) Sweet Light Rose Pink With Little Brown Ribbon Bow and Flowers
I ) Cream With Sweet Pink And Red Roses
J) Preppy Blue Red And White Plaids
K) Khaki With Sweet Retro Purple And Orange Flowers
L ) Lovely Blue Country Quilt
M ) Lovely Pink And Red Country Quilt

♥ Material : Made of really sweet plaids or floral thick double layered cotton cloth. Inside, there is a small pocket. I like the fact the seams inside are covered! There is a sweet cream lace lining the top of the bag. Zipper closure with sweet faux leather tag with the words "Momo". It is actually manufacture for Japan.

♥ Measurement : They measures approx 7.5 inches wide, 5.5 inches tall ( include ruffles ) , actual depth is 4 inches and 3 inches wide at the base.

♥ Price : USD 9.50 each and the shipping USD 4.50. Just email me at iheart.shop@yahoo.com, remember to tell me which design you want to buy and your shipping address. I would sent you an invoice via Paypal. The shipping is via China Registered Post. I would so dearly love to sell them at my Etsy store but they are not handmade nor supplies. Do grab one of these lovelies today!:)

♥ FINDER'S KEEPERS - Rainbow Delight

2009-03-18T01:43:00.006+08:00

Super Cute And Colorful Black Cat At Window Rainbow Animal Theme Thick Big Scrapbook Journal
These days, honestly I am not very much like myself. A good friend of mine just lose his job and it is hard for everyone who cares about him to see him in this state. There is such tension in the air surrounding the city these days due to the poor economy. I see shops closing and today I felt sad, I use to get a human voice when I ordered my mineral water but today.... they change it to those robotic voice " press this" and " press that" system. I mean.. I can imagine what that means for the operators, more lose jobs. It is harder and harder to experience human touch these days.

So, I do what I normally do, do a search for colorful things on Etsy to cheer me up. Since I NEVER NEVER SEEMS to be able to snatch a Treasury due to

1) Overslept, I just cannot get the time difference right!

2) Not very good at fighting for a spot , I am quite shy..

3) Indecisive about the items, I am a Taurus but sometimes the Gemini part of me surface and turn me into a hopeless bimbo , flapping arms and all squealing "oooohhh... all looks so gooood, I cannot decide .. oohh". Not pretty.

4) Critical, this is the full Taurus out, I am very generous with praise but also with constructive criticism. Lucky I talk to myself most of the time and no one gets hurt.

5) Ego, I simply feel unjust if my selection did not get to the Front Page. I know I know.. how could Etsy choose a Treasury that just keeps showing the same rainbow color items? I am very loyal to what and who I like and tend to stick to the same sellers or stores. I should try to explore more.

HENCE

I decided to do my own Treasury here! YAY!!!!!! I call it FINDER'S KEEPER. I mean, it takes me some time to find these treasures and I intend to keep them! Those who missed out, well, Loser Weepers! LOL! Funny thing is I can only print screen 12 items!!!LOL!!! Guess that have to do for now till I figure how to print screen the whole thing! Ok, I shall introduce the items, rate the hearts and comments!

♥ -> Wonderful
♥♥-> Drop dead gorgeous
♥♥♥ -> Cry with happy joy
♥♥♥♥ -> Will think about robbing a bank just to have it!
♥♥♥♥♥-> Will think nothing about robbing a bank just to have it!

Rainbow Pencil Roll - 20 pencils included By SetCarre
I love it! The fabric chosen is so sweet and well coordinated for each pencils! Maybe I can use it for my make up brushes. Rate ♥♥♥

SPRING Rainbow Flower Clippy set of 7 BOGO By QTPA2T Perfect set for spring! I always like little crochet flowers and think it really add a touch of cheer instantly! BOGO --> Buy One Get One Free ! My Goddess, I wish they ship internationally!! UURGGHHS. Rate ♥♥♥

Modern retro rainbow patchwork quilt, 36 x 45 inches - Custom orderBy allthenumbers As I am typing this, the item was sold!!!! Not a surprise really, look at the gorgeous colors and the handiwork. Only USD 150! I wish I am patience enough to make one but I have the attention span of a 2 year old. Rate : ♥♥♥♥♥

Set of 8 Marbled Round Rainbow Crayons - Perfect for Little Hands By GooseHillDesigns This is truly one shop that always makes me smile like a child. I love how she uses non toxic crayons, melt them and mold them into fun shapes! This is not even the best design yet! Go see her cupcakes crayon!!! Rate ♥♥♥

So Sweet - Fine-Art Photo Pendant Necklace By stoopidgerl One of my ultra most favorite shop! I love ALL her items! I vow to try to buy one item from her a month! She is so talented ! Go see her prints! AWESOME! Rate ♥♥♥

Rainbow Piggy Bank in polymer clay filigree
By starless Why why why does this seller call herself Starless? She is a real star in my eyes with this awesome piggy bank! Read how she does it and I applaud her creative and effort. Seriously, this pig makes me want to start saving! Rate : ♥♥♥♥

Zoo-licious Loop N Lovey By
spoolnloopsI could not really figure out what this fun colorful looking thing is until I realize it is for babies! The colorful cloth and texture plus all the ribbons loops is suppose to enhance a baby's sense of touch!!! My goodness! I wish I had one of these when I was young but maybe.... I can buy it and use it as key chain! LOL!
Rate : ♥♥♥♥

Love Birds WordDesigns Scrabble Tile Pendant Love Birds By WordDesigns40 Personally I do not really like the idea of using Scrabble tiles to be made into pendants. I love Scrabble and I feel it is sad that instead of using it for what it really is for, they are turned into accessories. But after seeing so many Scrabble pendants on Etsy ,I am starting to be brought over. I mean, really, the ones on Etsy are simply wonderful and the range is huge! I love this because I am a bird lover and I always love Love Birds, really sweet creatures. Rate ♥♥

Cute Kokeshi Wooden Rainbow Dolls By samyii These polymer clay Kokeshi dolls are so cute! I love their little cotton clothes! I should get a set to accompany me when I work! They are so stylish and cheerful, I feel good just looking at them! Rate ♥♥♥

timepiece wristband - rainbow on whiteBy offwhite.etsy I love this cuff, the words written is one of my many mantras really. I use to be so impatient and angry when things do not go at my pace. I had learn the very hard way ( long story) that time is a wise friend and it is better to follow her than to go against her. This cuff reminds me again it is time to shop! LOL! Rate ♥♥♥

Puking Patrick Earrings By Rairen Perfect for St.Patrick's Day!!!!! This shop has really quirky and fun Kawaii style accessories! I like shops like this that offers a little non mainstream quirky items. Rate ♥♥♥

Good Things Will Happen note cardBy thebeautifulproject Another one of my mantra. I believe all things happen for a reason ( but I do believe in random no meaning events too , like the time I found a piece of parking ticket in my purse, I don't drive and we do not own a car. This still did not inspired me to learn). Above all, I believe good things does comes to those who wait and BETTER THINGS would come if you don't wait and seize the day! LOL! This card is wonderful, it reminds me not to wait a day longer but to make use of my time better! Rate ♥♥♥

♥ SNEAK ATTACK NOW!

2009-03-14T13:16:00.004+08:00

HandmademovementThe "Victim" is The Cosmic Fish

Oh!!!! There is one going on RIGHT NOW!!! Hurry hurry and let's attack! LOL! I really love this movement! It is a great chance to do our part to support sellers. I am hoping over to see what goodies she has.

♥ BLOG GIVEAWAY UPDATES

2009-03-14T02:13:00.006+08:00

You know... ever since I started this small contest on 3rd March, the response is truly overwhelming. I got the nicest, kindest , sweetest emails from readers and buyers and I did not expect this at all! I mean, yes, everyone loves a contest and I did not think USD 100 is much, I mean, I wish I can offer more but it depends on my monthly sales actually.

In Feb, I had a wonderful time selling on Etsy. Sales was better than expected. I was really touch. I do not have the lowest prices , I wish I did but I am not a local hence it is very hard for me to get local suppliers prices. I try to make up with bulk discounts and absorb any fees or packing material. Yet, buyers are buying from me and I really try hard to give the best customer services as I can. When I got good deals from suppliers, I buy extra so I can give them as freebies to my buyers. And all the nicest feedbacks, convo and emails.. I mean.. not to slam any site but I did not ever get such nice treatments on other sites which I am selling at. Thank you guys.. for all the support and really really kind words.. ;).

I am still trying to update the entries as fast as I can and I will make sure all valid entries are in. See the cute picture above? That is my "mascot" , he is the cutest soft toy dog ( from Ikea) in the world! His name is Space JiJi and well since me and Beautiful Geek have this phobia of taking photos, I thought I let Space Jiji take over and say Hi for us. I know I know , it is too cute and mushy but such is my life. *wink*

I had so much fun writing all the entries and putting them in my giant colorful polka dots tea cup! The cup itself is approx 9 inches in diameter! I love it! I wish I can really drink from it but it has a hole at the bottom, it is suppose to be a pot for plant. LOL.

There is still time to join in the fun! Blog Giveaway ends on 29th March 2009 11.59 EST !!!

Anyway, thanks for your support and if all goes well, I really hope to hold this giveaway every other month. Have a good weekend!

♥ Jessie, Beautiful Geek And Space Jiji

♥ Oh Spring Spring You Make My Heart Sing And My Purse Sting!

2009-03-09T16:34:00.025+08:00

MADAME - Very Vain Buttons Series - Maya

Yippee! Looks like spring is here! I don't know about the rest of the world but here in Shanghai, the winter is freaking harsh and bone cold! I am so sick of wearing sweaters and jeans! I crave short skirts and little tees and singlets!

I was trying to explain to Beautiful Geek women needs new clothes, accessories , pretty things to look at every 3 months, this is the way I support the economy and help keeps jobs! HAHA! I am excited! What theme would I be this spring? I love colors and I see myself going really quirky and old school . I mean, I love love love clothes , items and accessories that has that extra OOMMPH! I am very critical and it really must be AWESOME before I purchase it. I mean.. I had my fair share of poorly design, badly made, mediocre / safe design items in the past. I done my part, now I want AWESOME!

Heheee.. see what I had found on Etsy and really want to buy ( still waiting for my new credit card to come, hurry hurry please!!). I always try to find things in my favorite seller list before I do an open search. Ok, now go see my selection, drool, buy and yes I welcome comments on my good taste *wink*.

Mini Owl Friends Applique Iron-On PatchesBy LittleMamasDesigns

Do you know how hard it is to find really pretty iron on patches? I tried to make some but one of my friend thought I had puked on my skirt...( change friend or stop making patches?) . seriously, I should just buy them from this seller. SUPERB COLORS. SUPERB DESIGN and SUPERB PRICES!!!

Larissa - Textile Cuff NecklaceBy Shagpile

Cuff necklace in spring? Why not? I will wear this with one of my tube tops and wow, instant cool!

Rosie - Fabric and Felt Bird NecklaceBy Shagpile

Wonderful wonderful necklace! I love how she uses different texture cloth and the bead mix!

Original Collage ACEO--A Walk Through the FlowersBy catlover1

Beautiful ACEO , always love this shop, it has wonderful retro items!

Winter Walks everyday pleated handbag OOAKBy ThePeach

It is called a Winter Walk bag but the cheerful blue hues are too cute to not use it in spring too! Infact, this is one bag that is good for all seasons. Just looking at it, I am happy! Oh, yes, The Peach is really well known too in Etsy. I bought a clutch and good workmanship and *count fingers* I think over 15 people compliment on it!!!

Yellow Bird StudsBy TheTinyFig.etsy.com

This shop is super cute! The store name itself makes me smile!:) They sell really nice handmade kawaii style earrings.

Adult and Kids Lovebird SlippersBy piddies

Ok, if your heart is not melting now when you see these suuuuuppperrr cute slippers, you are not an ice cream ( Ha! Bad Joke I know). I mean, look at them, awwww... so cheerful, the details are awesome, useful too!!! Quick go buy a pair and make me jealous.

Sunny Sunshine -- Inspiration Kit By Haileysbobbins

This is a perfect example of good photography. I love the arrangement, the mix of different hues and texture. Just looking at it, I feel inspired. And the price *weep* .. I mean, for such wonderful mix of scrapbook material, the price is so so right!

Hey girlfriend you STINK -- But that is cool -- Fix it with Lady LitesBydippylulu

This store is really fun! Very original and has fun range of quirky items! This set of matches are the latest. I love how they put that little rhinestones on the box. Perfect for my guest bathroom!

Felt Ice cream BroochBy FeltCreations.etsy.com

Wow, I mean, WOW! Look at this! So Kawaii !!! Seriously how much more can one ask for in a brooch? Wonderful design, details, size is big enough to make an impact and yummy!

Queens Doorknocker earringsBy brookadelphia

When I was young, I love being called "Princess" as I grow older now, I like being called Her Majesty but I settle for Queen. I mean, if I do not refer myself as one, no one would and seriously once I started, I feel like one too! Yes, I am a Queen in my own world, I rule with love and justice and everything in my kingdom is pink. Heehee.

Sweet Geek - Resin Skull Candy NecklaceBy stoopidgerl

If you need some cheering up, go to this store. It is FABULOUS! Very very colorful and loads of fun Kawaii style resin necklaces and more! I love love love this store to death! This particular necklace stood out as you know, I am married to a Beautiful Geek and perhaps I should buy this for him but I will wear it because I think he would look funny in pink. LOL.

11th March update --> I BOUGHT IT!!! YAY!!! HAH! I will have the coolest necklace in town now!

cover pillow from vintage fabricBymicoucou

Ooohh... I love the vintage fabric used on this very comfortable cosy looking cushion!Simply outstanding!

Mon Petit Chien- Madras Plaid Vintage Fabric Small Dog DressBy monamivie.etsy.com

My God, I wish I am that cute little dog!!! I love it's dress!!! UURGGGHSS why can't there be dress like that for human beings!

Eco-Friendly and Fun tote - HandpaintedByCarryMeAway

Spring without a new bag? C'est impossible et tragic! This piece has all the right stuff ! Lovely material, eco friendly, HAND PAINTED (!!!), perfect size for busy woman who buys a lot ( aka moi) and oh so wonderful vibes!

♥ My Love For All Things Airmail

2009-03-06T01:15:00.037+08:00

Simply Wonderful London England Travel Landscape Places Characters Landmarks MINI 56 Designs 36 Envelopes Postcard Box Scrapbook Cards Letter Set - LONDON

Since the internet connection is extremely sloooooowwwww today, I can't list my new items without banging my head on the wall ( with a soft pillow, I love myself and my brain is my only asset anyway). I thought I will blog and chat about another thing I love! I love quaint airmail, postal, travel , postcards theme stationery!

Vintage Style Postcard Landscape Icon Letter Set Pad

I used to collect stamps quite fervently when I was young. I love soaking the envelope to retrieve the stamp attached and put them under the sun to dried. Then I would carefully store them in my album and admire the drawings or the pictures on them. Then, I was an avid letter writer, I had a lot of from all over the world. Stamps were one of the ways I get to know the different landscape, food, bird species , people etc. Back then, I did not know subconsciously it was a sublime form of education and how it would help me developed a keen sense of travel and the readiness to accept other cultures and races instantly.

Wonderful Set Of 10 Sheets Mix Vintage Cars Stamps Animal Airmail Design TRANSPARENT Deco Scrapbook Stickers Set

I grew up poor. That does not mean I do not have enough, I always had what I needed and also lots of motherly and fatherly unconditional love. I have wonderful siblings whom I love dearly. Watching them growing up is as good as watching my very own children. Point is, I am not that type who would grow up thinking about traveling or even staying in another country! It is a rich man's dream. I was suppose to be contented, get a job, don't dream too much, not pretty enough to hook a rich guy, not ugly enough to be in a freak show and join the circus.

Fun Set Of Rolling Letter In Mini Box Paper Set

Am I bitter? Never, honestly, my childhood is the one thing that no one can take it away from me, I cherish it and treasure it . I put it in the deepest , warmest part of my heart under lock and key. When I am down, I go to that hiding place and hid for awhile. I always come out feeling blessed , that no matter what life will bring me in the future, my blessed childhood can compensate 1000 times. I am indeed eternally grateful. I want to show you something I hold dear...:)

The only letter I know that my father wrote to my mother when he was in India in 1990. The funny thing is, my mother does not know nor read a word of English! I was astounded when I opened and read it to my mum, my father has beautiful handwriting and excellent penmanship, I never would have thought a quiet man like them can be so eloquent in a letter. I erase the name and address to protect my family privacy. I framed it up as I do not the letter to be misplaced or tear as the paper is very delicate.

Ah, back to the topic, sorry but I need to state certain facts and am proud to , in event my family, friends and relatives chance upon this blog, I do not want any misunderstandings that I am trying to tell the world I am a poor girl. I am wealthier than many in other aspects.

Really Cool Retro Style Old Map Stamps Floral Flower Phoenix Theme Printed Drawing Lead Pencils

So.. *smile.. as I grew up, my wandering spirit grew too. I started to save money and started traveling a lot. What makes me a little disappointed ( in a nice way) is that almost everyone all over the world is the same. Same as in, their desire, their thoughts, their behaviors. I learn most people love food, thinks family is very important, that life should be simple, humility is worth more than gold. I learn all crave love, crave peace and crave spiritually. I always came back from my travels amused, we all really very much alike.

Do You Stay At 42nd And Broadway Manhattan New York Wooden Rubber Stamp

Nowadays, with internet and my faithful MacBook. I never write a letter for the longest time. Yet, I still feel happy when I see anything airmail, letters etc related. They bring me to the time of my childhood again and I just close my eyes, I see that 8 year old me waiting for the postman to come. I would stand afar from him and hope he drop a pretty decorated ( yes my pen pals were really creative!) envelope into my mailbox. *smile wistfully*.

Ahhh.... here are more things that I love, you can find some in my store and some from other sellers too! Enjoy ...:)

Cute Set Of 9 Bon Voyage Post Card Paris Holiday Theme Wooden Wood Rubber Stamp Kit

Fun Aged Airmail Address Stamp Wooden Rubber Stamp

Wonderful Retro Style Airmail Letter Design Cloth Travel Passport Holder Case

Retro Airmail Paris Colors Red Blue White Fabric Deco Decor Sticker Packing Tape

Wonderful Set Of 64 Different Design Old World Map Small Scrapbook Business Size Cards

Pretty Banilla Circus Animal Theme Letter Set And Envelopes

Wonderful Tokyo Japan Theme Any Year Planner Diary With Cloth Card Holder

Pretty Vintage Romantic Out To The Sea Letter Set

Pretty Black City Print Transparent Plastic Decor Deco Sticker Tape

Very Cool Paris Eiffel Tower Slope Design Notebook Journal

Fun Airmail Design Red Blue White Stripes Plastic Decor Tape Scrapbook Stickers

42 Vintage Air Mail Special Delivery POST OFFICE LABELS VARIETY OF 3 Different COLLAGE JEWELRBy Sweetkate

Airmail 8X10 PhotographBy peggyhodge

Airmail sticker - Small set - blue, red and beige By paperama

Airmail Birdie Handcarved StampBylovesprouts

Hand Lettered Air Mail Envelope Seals By KisforCalligraphy

Air Mail - Stamp Scrabble Necklace
By By CuteLilKatieKat

♥ March Is Here And On I March

2009-03-03T21:56:00.008+08:00

Robot Invasion - 5 x 7 Fine Art Photograph By Daydreamers

Ok, it is March, felt like the little soldier sometimes ! Here is what had I done and what I need to do!!!!

Done

1) Housewarming party for 15 people. It was last Friday, absolutely exhausting. I am use to typing not talking to 15 people! Never talk so much for a long time! Jaw aches. Happy to scurry back to my isolated non verbal lifetsyle. DH not counted, he comes home, I babble to him.

2) Done, finally started my blog giveaway contest. I am not sure how it will actually help me and my business, but at least I try and I love giving away stuff!!!

3)Organize my stock. Store room is a hell hole. I decided to do it after being attacked by 2 large notebooks. They ambush me when I open the door too fast and they fell from the top shelf onto my head. Decided to put them in their places ( literally).

4) Panic attacked about possibilities of DH being retrenched. Rumors flitting about befitting the likes of a popular brothel around his company. Not sure if he would be affected. Panic for a week. Got tired of panic, decide not to panic and plan for evacuation . Possibilites ugly. Looks like if he did get the sack, we will have to live apart again ( long story and I am bored with the mock sack-a-do drill). Yes, I do drills like rehearsal. I am not a "maybe", "hope we get lucky", "touch wood" kinda gal. I like reality and I like to face it like a woman.

TO DO

1) Make a baby. It is harder than I expected.Spoke to God about it, He sounded harassed and said the one I want it quite hard to make, to give Him more time. Ok.

2) Watch Seinfield , all the seasons again. I missed one episode and can't remember what it is so, so being me, I would watch all till I find it.

3) Make new buttons, I am lagging behind schedule. Not sure why my new buttons ain't selling but I love them still like a mother who believe in everything good in her children. I know they are waiting for the right man / woman to come along and claim them.

4) Get a bigger whiteboard, my English class is growing and it is hard for the typical 1.8 meters tall Chinese boys to knee and write and the board! I really love teaching them! It is like a wonderful distraction for me from selling.

5) Chill, I need to chill. I am always on the run. I am never still ( hey it rhythms!).

♥My First BLOG GIVEAWAY IHeart $100 Store Voucher!

2009-03-03T00:53:00.080+08:00

I had been planning to do blog giveaway for awhile and had been thinking hard what would be the best for my ultra "winner" ( you are all winners in my eyes :D ) . I thought of giving some really nice craft kits but I am not sure if the winner might like them. So I thought " okay, I would prefer to give them store credit so they can buy what they want!".

Purpose of this is to do my part to promote Etsy to more people, have a chance to give something back to the great people who support and love Etsy. Of course I would like to show off my stores! :D .

How to get a chance to win this $100 gift voucher?

♥ My New Items !!!! ♥

2009-03-01T04:24:00.016+08:00

I am so crazily busy these days to post!!!! Just had my housewarming party, French classes, preparing for my student's English lessons, Beautiful Geek's birthday dinner and 6 large boxes of new items just arrived! I am so excited about my new stocks!!!! Going to show some off and dash off to bed ( it is 4.30 am here!) LOL!

These are really some of my favorite South Korea brands and yes, I have listed them, so grab them fast! Many are out of production and I manage to beg and plead my supplier to sell me some! Tomorrow I will try to list the rest but must spend some time with Beautiful Geek since weekends are the only time we can do fun things like exploring the little quaint alleys in Shanghai. Happy weekend all! :D

Super Cute Milk Carton Cow Cartoon Kawaii Style 300 Sheets Small Memo Note Pad - Banana

Super Cute Milk Carton Cow Cartoon Kawaii Style 300 Sheets Small Memo Note Pad - Strawberry

Sweetest Shinzi Katoh Sunny Sunday Girl and Apple Tree Design Fabric Pencil Case

Sweetest Shinzi Katoh Tea Time Cafe Design Fabric Pencil Case

Sweet Fun Artbox Panda Bear Black White Polka Dots Fabric Pencil Case

Cool Retro Surreal Style Doma Graphical Illustrations Notebook Journal --Green Bridge

Super Cute Retro Style Doma Children Graphics Landscape And More Design Small Handheld Journal Notebook

Sweet Soothing Brown And Red Retro Style Herb Flower Leaves Design Handheld Journal Notebook

Sweet Soothing Words Birds Floral Design Handheld Journal Notebook

Fun Retro Style I AM A Photographer Message Words Metal Box For Business Cards Name Cards Little Trinkets

Cool Retro Style I AM Inspirational Message Words Metal Box For Business Cards Name Cards Little Trinkets

Cool Retro Camera Clouds Design Handheld Small Journal Notebook

Cool Set Of 36 Assorted Landscapes Retro Surreal Message Words Postcard Scrapbook Card Se

♥ In 45 minutes

2009-02-25T18:37:00.009+08:00

Seriously...... *pause* .. *smile*.. how did I manage to survive without my beloved Daniel ( I named my MacBook after the very cool character in the French movie Taxi ) and Google?

I just, at the tip of my fingers, manage to

1) Order my inventory from 5 suppliers. Each of them have their own website, they accept bank transfer. In under an hour, all orders are placed and paid for. I will get all my stuff tomorrow, right at my doorstep!. *Jump about happily abit*

2) Bought some nice pin back buttons from this fabulous seller from Spain, RetroAttack . Look! I love them!!!!! So absolutely freaking cool!!! Excellent prices and customer service too!

3) Also order my custom cuff from BettyDeath. My wrist is twig like so I need one custom made and it is just lovely! Can't wait to slap it on my wrist and show it off in my next French class!

4) Book a table for 2 at Kathleens5. I just type Shanghai Museum restaurant and BOOM! There it is on Google!!! So smart! It is Beautiful Geek's birthday tomorrow and I know he loves the beautiful view from the restaurant's rooftop. We went there for tea and he had wondered how would it looked at night, ah, he would know very soon!:)

When it comes to art deco buildings and restaurants, Shanghai is one of the best places to explore. I generally appreciate the building more than the art shown inside.

5) Found a professional film developer shop for black and white films. Our regular shop does not do Kodak TMax 400 so we had to hunt for a new shop. Again, Google instantly show up the address and telephone number for the store! I am mightily impressed! In 5 minutes I got all the driving instructions, the opening time and the service available!

I mean, I know everyone knows how efficient the internet is, especially Google but please do not always trust the information 100%. For example, the photoshop address given on Google is outdated, they had moved but the telephone number is the same. I always double check the information.

Now je suis fatigue ! I cannot believe how tired I am just sitting here for 45 minutes doing the above! I think I move to my next favorite chair, the couch for a bit of Will & Grace ( my 2nd time watching the series, I love them!).

♥ Poll Poll Poll Your Vote

2009-02-24T00:22:00.004+08:00

Below are the prints I am thinking about purchasing in a few weeks time . Which do you think I should get?? Join POLL POLL POLL YOUR VOTES on the right side and help me decide!!! I wish I can buy all of them but I need to save build to build house for the poor and I also want to support my fellow Etsy sellers!

Print - The Knife Juggler By Roadside

Me without you. By JacqleenBleu

3 Print Set - Charming Silhouettes By AFancifulTwist

The Poe Sisters by DearDodo

Unicia version2 by artandghosts

The Darling Nest, Print by MarmeeCraft

There is one piece, this ONE very SPECIAL piece, this awesome, heartbreaking which I love love love more than my left toe... *sigh.. the price is way off my budget but still.. looks are free eh? I have to find something to blackmail beautiful geek with so he has to buy for me! Hmm.... maybe I can accuse him of not turning his shirts outside in before throwing them in the laundry ??? Ah.. but I use that last month.. duh.... Anyway I will think of something! Meanwhile, ain't this wonderful ?

the white rabbit 1/25 by matchstickgirl

♥ How To Instantly Have Good Art Taste And At The Same Time Make Your Walls Pretty

2009-02-23T23:00:00.019+08:00

I consider myself to have decent amount of taste in art ( thanks Ma and Pa for the gene!).

In fact, if you find yourself wondering if you lack the I-Know-It's-Good-Art-The-Instant-I-See-Them gene, don't worry! It can be cultivated !!! Don't believe? Go to Etsy. Key in any search words related to art, for instant, you like farm theme art? Just key farm, animal, prints, photo, ceramic etc and you would see many wonderful art pieces coming up from the search ( please ignore that toothbrush made from sheep's fur which is cut from a 19 century vintage dress which was used for a sit in portrait of a beautiful but very dead rags to riches farm lady if you see it).

Browse through the thousands and thousands of listings offered, by the 3rd hour, I guaranteed you would have at least 3 items in your shopping cart ( be nice, checkout and remember to pay for them!). What does that make you? An art connoisseur !!!! See, you recognize art! You recognize good art! You want to buy them, some you want them NOW. See? Easy eh! Really, Etsy is such an awesome site, I love it to bits! It is like scrolling through many wonderful art galleries / flea markets while wearing my Hello Kitty pjs and eating honey toast with crumples on my blossom and nary a care at all.

I have so many favorite sellers! The last I checked, I have over 400 over sellers on my list! I am not very particular who I add actually because to me, I am positive I can find 1 thing there in their stores which I love.

This week, I am happy to find some really nice prints! I love love love art prints! It is like for USD 10 to USD 20 you get a piece of art!!!!!!! At first I was really skeptical , I did not think much of printed art / graphic pieces. I mean, what is so difficult scanning a picture and printing like 5000 copies for sale? Then I got some during a few trades ( trades are fun, instead of buying the items, you can trade your items for another seller's item, not all sellers does trades, so do ask first!:). I was really happy to receive my prints!!! They made my dull boring white wall alive!

The irony is..... erm... the frame cost me USD 30 each... but I gritted my teeth, close one eyes, tighten my belt , reach for my small purse and paid for 4 good solid wood frames . Now , my living room is my pride and joy! I love being in the room now. I felt so.. complete. I know I know, it seems silly, how can wall pictures makes me feel so much but try it, you will see what I mean. Buy a few prints, frame them and stand in the room for 1 minute and then come back and thank me ( you are welcome~:)).

These are the ones I love! Really cool pieces by just2sayhi.

Yes I am a Mac fanatic but too bad mine is not pink like the one in picture. Steve steve!! Please make the next MacBook pink please!!!!!

I do have a mac - Print 21x29.7cm

Dreaming chairs - Print 21x29.7cm

The following ones are from RosieMusic. I love birds and these two prints are very dear to me. I can't find the second picture from the store but it is from a series of many pictures to choose from. I got the pretty blue bird flying towards the masked girl ( on the left upper center). I put the two pictures facing each other and it is just awesome!

Too shy No.3 8x6