Craft Fairs and Booth Displays...Oh My!

 My, things sure have been busy around here.  I am a full time teacher but my jewelry has been taking over more and more of my time.  Business is growing and my enthusiasm for creativity has led me into the world of craft fairs.  I got my feet wet during the summer at a BIG arts show.  I was terrified...I and no really idea what I was doing, I had no real display items and I definitely had no sales experience.

But in I went...and had a very mediocre experience.  I was surrounded by 'professionals' and my tiny table really got lost in the mix.  My nerves meant I became far to reserved to actually drum up trade, and my inexperience led me to drop prices ridiculously low (think no profit low) and it really put people off.

I think I have a stubborn streak in me, however, as I actually felt more determined than ever to make my mark at craft fairs.  I wanted to learn how to do it, how to become a major presence in the sea of artisans selling their wares.  I am not there yet, but I am definitely improving.

Fundraising: The Salisbury Bracelets

Last week I sat in a meeting with my grade level teaching partners, planning the curriculum and focussing on learning when, out of the blue, one ask me to make a bracelet for a silent auction at a Salisbury Seagulls fundraiser.  The charity was the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society...how could I say no?  But...the event was in two days so I had to get moving.

I'm good at working to a deadline so I headed to my supply shop and found the perfect quartzite beads in the school colors, maroon and gold.  I even found alphabet beads and a charm that would look delightful.  I stocked up an set about creating a nice design.  Wanting to give options, I made three prototypes.  My friend could pick which one and I would make three or four; one for the auction and a couple for her and her family.

My friend, Karen, literally squealed with delight at the sight of the three bracelets and announced that all three were perfect and can I have five more ready for Friday?  It was Thursday, I had no more supplies, and I had a baseball game and swimming to attend with my kids.  BUT...it was for the LLS so I said yes.

My Accidental Bracelet Design

I am a summer lover. Once spring arrives I get all excited for the colors I love most; blues, turquoise, and greens.  I also love being able to wear white without feeling silly, (I know that is my own perception of things but I never wear white in the winter comfortably.)

My love of 'easy' led me into the world of memory wire bracelets and I have a passion for them  They look like multiple bracelets, but don't wiggle around or take ages to put on.  They also keep their shape so well...told you I like 'easy'.

This particular bracelet happened by accident...literally.  My beads spilled and the colors went together so well, despite being a pile on the floor,  and my next idea was hatched.  The only part I actually 'designed' was the addition of silver beads.  I selected silver glass beads to work alongside the rest of the glass beads already chose by default.  I usually like contrast (metal beads with wood, or glass etc.) but this time I felt there was enough going on already.  What do you think?  Perhaps I may use this design in another color too...

Ukanite Bracelets: Promoting Balance

I have used Ukanite in my jewelry because it is such a beautiful and versatile stone.  It has many benefits for the wearer, and the colors draw the eye as pinks and greens pop! I have created stackable stretch bracelets and can add charms as desired.  While I show silver charms, this stone works well with other metals such as gold, bronze and brass too.  

Ukanite is a semi-precious stone that  can draw negative energies from the body and help to connect the mind and soul. It is thought to provide support for those recovering from a long illness or surgery. Ukanite promotes balance in all aspects of life and allows the wearer to feel more centered. By releasing energy blockages, Ukanite can encourage the wearer to live in the present and move on from the past. 

Faces of Silver Treasury - Featured Curator

I am very proud to be featured in this beautiful treasury.  There are so many beautiful items.  Click on the picture above to visit the treasury.  Please show it some love and check out the curator, Ninu Milu and her beautiful shop.  She has a collection of unique bag-dolls, cell phone cases and covers for iPads that are so cute.  Her inspiration comes form Koeshi dolls.  They are well worth a look.   

Spring Is Here!

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Gypsies Crafts & Treats: Featured Etsy Shop: Butterfly Warriors

So many people are getting behind my mission: to raise awareness and fight cancer.  When Team Superman Sammy walks at the Light The Night event each November, we have a sea of orange shirts in support of my little hero.  We raise thousands of dollars.  We remind people how important it is to be cancer aware and to help find a CURE.  That is why I continue to create handmade jewelry...it is a therapeutic, creative and soul satisfying venture that happens to be another avenue to fundraise.

Imagine my sheer joy when a fellow blogger and fantastic crafter asked me if she could feature Butterfly Warriors on her blog.  I am honored and grateful that she wanted to promote my cause and, most importantly, raise cancer awareness.

Please hop on over to Gypsies Crafts and Treats to read more.  Don't forget to check out some of the amazing crafts and treats on the blog too....I got a little giddy of the St. Patrick's day cupcakes :)  Just click on the picture below and happy reading!