Quiltish by Allisa Jacobs

Let's Talk Business - Part One - Passion

2012-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hello, so good to see you here! I've carved out this little space in time for us to meet up and chat about all things business-y. Last week so many of you shared your business related questions and concerns (more? keep them coming!) I'm always amazed at the sheer resourcefulness, drive, and ingenuity in our creative community. Your questions were so thoughtful and since. Thank you so much for trusting this space to share them.

Where to begin? Well, the questions ran the gamut from pre-idea to growing business to identifying target markets to building brick and mortar shops. Wowza! I'm hoping to throw out a few things today and hear your thoughts. Tell me what resonates, let's discuss and hopefully we can grow together.

Over the weekend, I began collecting information, brainstorming and lining up guest posts and I thought, you know, many questions can be addressed....or at least layers of concerns can be peeled back if we start where I often encourage others (and myself!) to start - by reassessing your passion. In fact, the whole first chapter of my e-book dives into identifying your core concept. Because that has to come before anything and remain the focus as you grow. Have you identified your passion?

When we try to decide where to take our business, how to grow, ways to improve - it's often so easy to forget our core concept and think about what we think we should do, or could do... or even more tragically, into the messy realm of worrying about what will people buy. You know what I mean?

There was a time when I lost my focus...and lost passion, Here's the ultra quick version (of which I've gleaned mounds of business-y lessons) : I began by making handbags. People loved them. Everything grew from word of mouth way back in 2006. I was teaching and it was my hobby. Later, I decided to open an Etsy shop for extra cash flow. My handbags and clutches did very well. But I made a big mistake. Huge. I began sewing just about everything. And then selling them. With our new baby came lots of handmade bibs, cloths, blankets, etc...and you know what I did? I made more and put them in my shop. And they flew off my virtual shelves. They were in several baby boutiques. But there was a problem. I wasn't the slightest bit passionate about it. (except when I made them for my own little bebes!) The sewing was easy, there was no challenge...and I just didn't feel it. What was there to market? It would be so inauthentic for me. So, eventually, I made the switch. I refocused only on my handbags and clutches and it was the single smartest thing I've done for my business.

Can anyone relate to this? Similar experiences?

When a business owner has passion, you can feel it. You can share it. You want to be a part of that. Which businesses & creative folks with passion overflowing come to mind?

When I think passion, I immediately think of Noisette Academy, Oh My Handmade, Rifle Paper Co., Sarah Jane Studios...

What am I passionate about? Hmmm, let's see...Well, I'm completely passionate about drawing sketches and figuring out my own patterns. I like the trial & error, make it work kind of approach. I don't do purchased patterns. There is something incredibly satisfying about making something that is completely mine. From sketchy rough draft to refined finished bag. And I'm passionate about making items that people love...and love to give. Those 'behind the scenes' stories really get me. Like the husband who contacts me to create the perfect gift for his wife. I love that. And on the other front, I am madly, crazily passionate about helping others shine. I love nothing more than working with other folks to forge their own success. That's why I taught and it's why I now coach other businesses. Outside of business life....I'm passionate about my two boys. They make getting up at 4:30 so worth it. (they don't make it easy, but they make it worth it ;)

Now, your turn. What are you passionate about? Does this translate into business? Are you letting your passion drove your business growth and decisions ? Let's chat!

{lovely print from Unraveled Design}

additional resources:
Five Creativity Exercise to Find Your Passion from Entrpreneur.com
Chat with Oh My Handmade, creatives share their thoughts on showing their business love
Create Your Mark - ecourse from the incredibly wise & genuine Isa at Noisette Academy

Love.ly Day

2012-02-14T05:59:00.000-08:00

Smoooch!

Here's to hoping for a day filled with happiness & love...in whatever fashion. Mamahood, friendship, romance - let's soak in all that loving goodness. xoxo

{This print is from one of my favorite artists, super talented & charming Luciano Luzano. His site is such a treat to explore.}

Valentine Envelopes - Serious Cuteness

2012-02-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

Seriously too sweet not to share! Spied this adorable felt envelope tutorial over at Clever Charlotte and thought they were perfect for last minute, but super lovely Valentine's gifts. I'm thinking of whipping up a few for Jack's teachers...and maybe even an orange one with some joke cards tucked inside for him as well!

Ok, off to enjoy some dark chocolate hearts, rascally television, and hearts crafts :)

Home Searching

2012-02-12T08:20:00.000-08:00

And so it begins...
The search for a home to buy! There are not enough exclamation points to begin describing how excited I am. I've been smiling + dreaming + planning + wishing + trying like mad to let go and let our path shine through. It's such a big event isn't it?!

Yesterday, we went through half a dozen walk throughs...and what really hit me at the end is that more than anything I feel like we have to keep a clear focus on who *we are* and what our dream is while we search. It's easy to get lost and think, oh this could work, this lifestyle could be for us, we can make changes. I mean it is a process of give & take. But I'm finding that I need some sort of photo in my head, and then approaching each place with the idea of "could this home someday match that?"

Ah, leave it to me to get all analytical & introspective about it all ;) I'd really love to hear any suggestions or experiences others have with home searching & buying...do share!

{wood wool stool}

{mmm crafts}

{tiek homes}

{jones design company}

{via create find admire}

{front door}

{via le belle vie}

these are the images in my head :)

Paper Hearts

2012-02-10T05:36:00.000-08:00

paper heart garland from how about orange

paper heart chain from Betz White

So turning four years old must propel you in into the craze of Valentine's Day...because Jack just can't get enough of crafting anything heartsy! And then planning just *who* to give it to you. These paper heart chains are the perfect preschool craft; requiring a stapler or bit of glue and producing ultra quick results. We made bunches of these yesterday...with more planned today - to give to his teachers of course ;)

Also made an attempt at some heart cut out magnets...an experiment I dreamed up. But upon that failure (ugh!), Jack opted for a cute kit from the craft store producing these adorable dogs & kitties. I especially love the kitty with the super hero- esque mask.

Dug up some other Valentine's Crafts I rounded up last year along with our melty crayon hearts...and looks like we'll be in full heart mode this weekend :)

Know of a fun valentine's craft? Do share, the more glue & glitter, the merrier!

Coffee Date - Let's Talk Business

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

{Introducing: New Weekly Series!}

In the world of business-y stuff, my next favorite thing to sewing is talkin' shop. From the get-go, I've loved chatting over the ins and outs of creative small businesses. The mistakes, the lessons, the successes....mine and everyone else's. It's why I gathered up the smarts from others savvy entrepreneurs and crafted my e-book. It's why I started business coaching.

Often, I wish we could all just meet up for coffee, chat, and discuss businesses. Ask questions, admit our fears, share our stories. And of course, a fair bit of celebrating.

While we won't have the cozy get away of our local coffee shop, I invite you to brew a mug and join the conversation!

Here's what I'm thinking -> entrepreneurs, makers, dreamers, & shop owners...this means you!...post your business related question or topic you'd like to cover. Each Wednesday I'll post one of the questions (though I'll try to address them all) with my thoughts, resources, and perhaps invite a guest to share their perspective. No topic off limits (well, within reason I suppose ;) and we'll keep it general so it applies to everyone.

Ready? Go ahead - post your burning business question now! I'll meet ya in the comments.

Loving the Entrepreneur Inside

2012-02-07T11:06:00.000-08:00

{Heart by papermoth}

Hello,
Happy Tuesday!
I've been a bit under the weather lately. Well, a lot actually. Add two sick little boys to the mix and it's just been bananas over here. We're totally out of our schedule (nothing throws me off quite like a change in the routine...) and I always feel like being sick is such a waste of time- that's the crazy get it done side of me. But, it's been nice to take a breathe, well- what I can with a stuffy nose, and take things slow. There's been some glorious Portland sunshine and we've ventured out a bit to soak it in. Lots of movies, humidifiers, and hot soup...

So my post over at Noisette Academy today really couldn't have come at a better time. In honor of all things Valentines-y, I'm discussing the need to love the creative entrepreneur inside. Which can sometimes mean going a bit easy on ourselves. I urge us all to take time to really appreciate the maker + doer in us. I list some ways to love....and I'd be so happy to hear your thoughts too! Do pop over and share how you'll be loving you this month.

At Last.

2012-02-06T10:48:00.000-08:00

At last. My wedding collection is here. You probably know, I've already given lots of sneak peeks ( I was just so excited, couldn't help it!) - lots of happy colors, new twists, and classic shapes. While the bags and clutches can be enjoyed by anyone, I've made it a whole lot easier for brides to shop, select, and customize - and am adding more & more to the Bridal Collection section in my shop. Since I truly enjoy working with brides to create clutches and gifts, I'm really looking forward to this new direction.

organizer gift sets (perfect for keeping the wedding day agenda)

Cosmetic bags with optional personalized embroidery

Magnolia Flower

Dahlia Flower

Signature Poppy Flower

Fabric Swatches....

Always feels good to share what's going on here in the studio. What's everyone else been up to?

A Good One

2012-02-02T09:58:00.000-08:00

I first saw this quote on one of my college graduation cards. And it was the very thing I needed to hear.

Whenever I feel that same black cloud of uncertainty, a what-the-heck-am-I-doing kind of urgency...I think on this quote. As a teacher, mom, friend, and now business gal I want to be good at what I'm doing. Using that as the standard helps me refocus and shines a bit of clarity.

In the matters of business, I think we creative entrepreneurs really need this sort of reminder. It's so easy to get lost in the mire of what others are doing, what we could be doing, and maybe even what's next. We can spread ourselves so thin....and miss the chance to be good.

I've been so fortunate to also work as a business coach, officially now for a few months, and I most love getting to know people behind the brands. Their talents, their story. And more often than not, what businesses need to help guide them in the right direction, is a little nudge (sometimes a push) to remember what they are instead of focusing on what they are not.

When we focus on this....being whatever we are...we can really jump in with all our hearts and energy and talent to do it well.

Tell me, who is a good one you know? (maybe it's even you!)

{image credit Volume 25 - one of my new favorite shops, she's a good one!}

Paper Love

2012-01-31T15:07:00.000-08:00

all things lovely & papery....

Sweet Harvey

3 Girls and a Goat

Ashley Pahl

Fluid Ink Letterpress

Montclair Made

Sweetness

2012-01-30T06:04:00.000-08:00

an oldie but a goodie. jack's just a baby here, but it's still one of my favorites!

"Mama, next year I'm going to get you so many Christmas presents. So so many. All the things you like. I'll get you chocolate and fabric."

This was his declaration yesterday. He went on to include books, sewing needles and exercise stuff... and an art project made from sticks.

And you know my heart melted.

{tell me the sweetest thing you've heard recently!}

Pre-Sale: iPad Covers Are Here!

2012-01-27T07:06:00.000-08:00

So excited to share my new iPad covers! Been working on these for awhile...and finally came up with a design I'm really proud of. I had an initial case but after giving it a trial run with my friend, I went back to the drawing board. The first one was just good. This one is great.

As you all probably know, I run from any patterns and make my own designs (which is why it often takes me so long!) and this little love case is one of those creations when upon completion I held it closely to my heart and then did a little fist pump, "oh yeah!"

Here's your chance to scoop one up before I add them to my shop next month! I'm only offering 12 (and a few have already been taken) so this is just a limited time.

I'd love to hear your thoughts & feedback too!

order-> send a message with print preference to allisa [dot] jacobs [at] gmail [dot] com

To Make: Valentine Coffee Cup Wrappers

2012-01-26T05:57:00.000-08:00

These are pretty much one of my favorite Valentines-y things out there - printable coffee cup wrappers from Eat, Drink, Chic. It really doesn't get any sweeter than this. Cute way to enjoy the day and sip some coffee together!

Also, I gathered up some free printable valentine's cards last year that are still just as cute this year- perfect for the little ones or sharing note with friends: Valentine's Card Round-Up

My Etsy Shop vs. My Shop on Etsy

2012-01-23T09:48:00.000-08:00

Which do you say?

"My Etsy Shop" vs. "My Shop on Etsy"
You might think it’s just semantics, but there is actually a huge, important distinction there.
Let’s consider the implications of each;

“My Etsy Shop”- You are relinquishing the branding, identity, and power to Etsy.

“My Shop on Etsy” - You are taking control of your own space, your brand, and honoring the space Etsy provides.

Why all the nit-picking? Well, let me tell you. The handmade and small creative business community understand the dynamics of having a shop with Etsy. We get that it’s you. You design, make, create, and do it all. And let me just say unequivocally that I love Etsy - it’s given me an opportunity I might not otherwise have known.

But there is a world beyond Etsy-dom. (truly, I’ve seen it!)

It includes family, friends, neighbors, a long lost high school pal, hair dresser, fellow parent at the preschool, husband’s co-worker, dentist, son’s pediatrician, the local barista.....

These are all folks who have inquired into my business just in the last month. And each were mistified by the concept of Etsy. Yes, even now. And it’s not so much that Etsy is a confusing concept or that these people are especially un-tech savvy. But the distraction comes from the co-branding. Our business identity co-mingled with Etsy.

I’ve seen it in print too. In fact, I’ve written two letters to the editor of major publications for identifying handmade creations as “Etsy’s coasters” or “art print by Etsy.” Meaning that the wonderfully talented and awesome artist just lost all credit (or potential sales & recognition) to Etsy.

So, what to do?

Remember to say, “My shop on Etsy.” {with the emphasis on “my”}

Go ahead and love Etsy all you want (I do!), but love your shop enough to claim it.

_______________________________________________________________________________

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic, tell me what you think!

{image credit, the lovely shop Cosas Minimas}

Chevron Love. More.

2012-01-22T20:56:00.000-08:00

So much to love about chevron. I can't stop myself from browsing chevron prints... this watercolor painting from Sasha Prood is especially beautiful - really love the rough edges and white space.

Want more chevron? Take a gander at my design study post with a lovely round-up.

What design prints are you drawn to right now?

{ps. loved hearing all your random facts on my 'learn random things about me post' - thanks for sharing all your fantastically wonderful tidbits}

Love Story {winner announced}

2012-01-21T18:00:00.000-08:00

"Right now, this moment. When someone asks you and you immediately think back at what makes your heart happy, and I'm having that moment. That's because as years past, as marriage grows older and kids grow bigger, and dreams grow fonder I can say I'm in love with what I have. Leaving out anything that's not a sentiment. I simply love the moment when I can say I breath and feel the love I'm not only receiving back from but also giving to my dear husband of 18 years, my beautiful kids and my fulfilling creative business which is my dream come truth." - Mayra

Congratulations to Mayra from In Flight Celebrations for winning our Mega Valentines Day Pack with gorgeous items from Le Papier Studio, Merriweather Council, Suite One Studio, and Perideau Designs! Her story is incredibly wise and insightful - thank you for sharing!

I read each and every entry and was completely floored by all the tender stories of love. Stories of motherhood, sisterhood, soul mates, happiness from hurt, spiritual love, wise love of parents, and good old sweethearts.

I decided it was nearly impossible to choose one and went the random approach instead ( so hooray to Mayra for being lucky #10). And for those of you who shared this giveaway, I added in an additional entry.

One of my favorites comments however, was from this guy:

markjacobs said...
When I met you, Ms. Allisa Jacobs.
January 12, 2012 12:48 PM

{note: i removed this comment in fairness}

{photo courtesy pumpkin & butterfly}

Need a dose of goodness? Read some of the stories people shared!

Random Facts

2012-01-20T16:00:00.000-08:00

{my first grade photo}

It's the bits of random that really tell us about other people. Not all the shine and sparkle - but those embarrassing, revealing, unique little quirks that set us apart. I love noticing these in others.

So, here's a few bits of random about me:

My name is pronounced uh-lee-suh (been kindly correcting folks my whole life :)
I read magazines back to front.
At five years old I put this on my Christmas list, "I want to dance on stage with Bruce Springsteen." still hoping...
In elementary school I wanted to be an architect. I sketched books full of blueprints for deluxe log cabins.
I've been vegetarian/vegan almost entirely since 4th grade.
I am mostly deaf in my right ear.
I climbed Half Dome in Yosemite. I cried the whole way, but made it to the top.
I dream of someday owning enough land to rescue animals.
I have always set my alarm clock for odd numbers like 4:03 am.
I wave at other drivers when they do something nice.
Every summer I choose a nonfiction topic to read about like impressionist painting or apartheid-- though the last 4 years have mostly been business + babies.
I've attended over two dozen country music concerts. They make my heart smile.

So, please tell me something wonderfully random about you! I truly would love to hear.

A little glimpse...

2012-01-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

Been working hard to put the finishing touches on my wedding collection and personalized bags....in addition to a few Study Hall sessions and guest posts. Oh, and let's throw a newly crawling & teething baby into the mix. Party time over here! I'm so excited to share my new items so I thought I'd give a little glimpse...

Monogrammed Hand Embroidered Zipper Bags

Clutches in Pretty Solids

Mixed with Gorgeous Prints

New Dahlia Flowers

...and Buttercups

...and Peonies

Fold Over Clutches in Graphic Prints

For these new bags I've really honed in on the special requests I've received over the years, bridal wishes, colors that speak to me, and pushing my design techniques. I'd love to hear what you think!

Look forward to reporting back soon with more items, behind the scenes peeks, Valentines posts, and business tips.

xoxo

Whew.

2012-01-16T06:13:00.000-08:00

I love Mondays. It's a time to start over. This past week has been wild roller coaster. I cried a few times ...from joy to heartache to admiration to full-on motherly desperation; our baby started crawling (joy!), on Wednesday the boys officially ran circles around me (despair!), reading the tender love stories you all entered (admiration!), and my four year-old inquiring again about life & death - quietly telling me he doesn't ever want to die (heartache!)...

But, this is what life is all about right? Ups & downs, happiness & sadness, good & bad....

All right, enough of the serious..I'm ready to embrace this week and all it has in store!

I found this lovely envelope + fastener tutorial over at Martha Stewart - I think it would be a really pretty way to make a love note or kid's valentine extra special.

{{Oh, and speaking of valentines, have you seen my Mega Giveaway with five gorgeous valentine's inspired prizes from me & other lovely shops? Share your love story to enter. }}

Anyone else feel like starting over today?
Wishing you all a very happy and meaningful week!

xo

You Are So Loved - Mega Valentines Giveaway Pack

2012-01-12T05:27:00.000-08:00

{UPDATE 1/19} Giveaway Closed! I really appreciate everyone who participated & candidly shared their love stories. I am so thankful for such a beautiful community. Winner will be announced soon. xoxo

You are so loved!
My heart is so full of thanks and appreciation for my lovely readers & loyal customers, I'd like to share the love with an amazing giveaway pack with prizes from some of my favorite shops and friends.

Give to your dearest or keep for yourself...tokens of love just in time for Valentine's Day.

Mega Prize Pack Includes:
Hands & Heart 8 x10 Print {$24} from Le Papier Studio
Be Mine Embroidery Hoop {$25} from Merriweather Council
Ceramic Lovebirds {$25} from Suite One Studio
Bowl & Plate Set {$42} from Perideau Designs
Embroidered Heart Zipper Bag {$31} from allisa jacobs

How to enter? Simple.

To submit your entry to win all these lovely items, I made it really simple:

Declare your love story. Whether it's the bond between best friends, the moment you met your first child, finding a soul mate, repairing a relationship, or learning to cherish yourself - tell us about a time your heart was full of love.

{and}

Share the love. Tell others they are loved by spreading the news. Post this message on twitter (just copy + paste):

Mega #Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/megalove w. @allisajacobs @merriweathercouncil @perideaudesigns @SuiteOneStudio @lepapierstudio #youareloved

social media not your thing? share it your own way & let me know: allisa {dot} jacobs {at} gmail {dot} com

Details:
Open internationally. We love our friends world wide.
Winner is chosen by response & participation. (I'll be grabbing a cup of coffee & reading each response. Also taking note of who shares the love.)

Deadline: Thursday, January 19th at 6pm (PST)
Each item will be shipped separately from the individual shops. Oh and do make sure there is a way for me to contact you!
_______________________________________________________________________

Good Luck & let the love story-telling begin!

Lean, Mean, Creative Machine - Contributor Post at The Academy

2012-01-10T07:48:00.000-08:00

I'm out & about again today....this time over at The Academy to discuss detoxing your business for the new year. It's not just your body + soul that needs a fresh start, your creative business is probably in need of a good clean up too. Check out my tips on decluttering, reframing your mindset, feeding your creativity, and banishing negative thoughts. Come say hello & share your thoughts on freshening up your business and creative life for the new year!

{ps. I'll be back here later this week with a super amazing + lovely valentine's inspired giveaway. Collected a few of my favorites to share!}

{rain drops by lulu beaucoup}

Make, Sell, Repeat - Contributor Post at Oh My Handmade

2012-01-09T05:58:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Today I'm busy chatting up life on the assembly line, er, I mean life with a creative small business over at Oh My Handmade. My post, Make, Sell, Repeat, discusses that spinning productivity loop we can find ourselves on. Making and selling....but missing out on creative opportunities along the way. I include lots of of my favorite links to take a moment and pause - workbook pages, journals, article, and finding community.

Please come by & say hello....tell me how you take a break from the never ending assembly line.

{photo credit pearson maron}

Intentions for 2012

2012-01-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

I've been planning to write down my goals for 2012. I actually wrote my to-do list to write down my goals. I scribbled down some notes and ideas for my goals. I took out the large piece of paper I use to proudly proclaim my goals. I even resolved to achieve my goals (wait, what?).

But I haven't written down anything yet.

Then, this morning, I read Jessica's post at Oh My Handmade about intention and became clear. I've avoided any resolutions for 2012 because for me, resolutions lead to crazy-making. I'm so hard on myself. Like super critical and guilt-inducing hard on myself. In moments of clarity, I see that I often set myself up for failure. I give myself crazy 'tests' that are meant to prove something (to myself) but usually just end up in guilt or disappointment or moments of 'now what'? (like: let's see how long I can go with not eating any sugar. any.) Resolutions become something that sort of loom over me, a daily measurement of success or failure. I don't want to live my year like that.

If I look back at this year it was one filled with high hopes, lofty ideas, big dreams, amazing plans...I started off the year with a big ol sheet of resolutions. Things I said I would do. I had to do. I must do.

But....
morning (all day) sickness sidelined me longer than i expected..
my e-book changed direction and took ten times longer than I planned.
i questioned what i was even doing.
i longed for my special education classroom again.
i spent hours looking at jobs...doubting whether staying at home was the right choice financially
our baby arrived and recovery was so difficult.
he developed a swallowing disorder making eating traumatizing & breast feeding impossible.
my older son had a sudden onset of seizure episodes.

basically....everything was different than I had imagined.

Towards the end of 2011, all those resolutions now seemed sort of meaningless. I mean, so much had changed from last January to the birth of our son in June to a major refocus on health in August to renewal in November. There was no way I could hold myself to that same measurement stick....and, truth be told, those old goals seemed sort of silly.

So, I'm not writing down any resolutions this year. And for goals, I'm just going to let them ebb & flow with our life. I'm taking Jessica's position and making intentions to embrace this new year.

Would love to hear your intentions for 2012, please share what you've got in mind.

{photo courtesy sweet blue, one of my all time favorite prints}

Valentine's Day 2012

2012-01-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

Bringing back some of my embroidery for this one! Inspired by different color combinations and little details - tiny dots, textured fabric, and chain stitches. So excited to reintroduce my personalized embroidery...which I'll also be including on my new wedding collection coming soon!

With these bags & card cases I hoped to make sweet designs that show someone (or ourselves!) else how much they are loved.

xoxo

Rethink

2012-01-02T06:43:00.000-08:00

Rethink.

Reevaluate. Go over.Polish. Rearrange. Reassess. Reexamine. Review. Revise. Take another look. Replan.

It’s time to do all this.

Even if things are going just swimmingly. You’ve seen some success, you’ve got momentum, you’re just plain feeling good about business. That’s awesome.

But you still need to rethink things.

Why?

Because even in the midst of awesomeness, we can miss opportunities, ignore calls to creativity, and head down the wrong path.

{I know. I’ve done it.}

Last month on The Academy Blog I talked a bit about moving ahead without the blinders- taking a long hard look at your business. With the start of the new year, it’s a perfect time to reevaluate everything.

A few things to rethink:

Your Products. They might be selling really well. In fact, they might be selling like hotcakes. But let me ask you a few things: Are you making what you love? Have you found your niche? Are your products focused? Considering these points can help guide your product development in new, more meaningful directions.

Your Focus. What’s your point? Your end-goal. Are you focused on just selling...or the process of making, building, and growing? Sharpen your aim to include bigger things.

Your Time. For small businesses, efficiency is a major currency. We tend to get stuck doing the same thing, the same way. Try flipping things around, doing something different, taking a new approach.

Your Prices. Think you got it all figured out? Hmmm. Well, pricing is an ongoing process and a topic discussed at length {take a peek at my post on Worth} but you’ve got to consistently reevaluate what’s written on your price tags. Ask yourself these things: Are my prices sustainable for growth? Am I making a profit or just selling things? Do my prices convey my worth?

Let’s start of the new year with a perceptive mindset and keen awareness to our business. Toss things up, flip it around, and let it fly!

What will you be rethinking in the new year?

{image courtesy one of my favorite artists: blancucha}

4

2012-01-01T15:12:00.000-08:00

Happy 4th birthday to my handsome, sweet boy! Jack- I can't

think of a better way to start the new year than celebrating your

birth.

I love you more than all the Legos in the world,

mama

2011

2011-12-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

what a year.

what a wonderfully blissful, challenging, frightening, calming, rewarding year.

we welcomed beautiful, bright baby luke.
cheered on jack as he became a proud big brother.
celebrated accomplishments; my husband’s amazing sports marketing campaign. my ebook. magazine features. a natural birth. first year of preschool.

we weathered a few storms together.
the health of our boys....countless doctor appointments and hours of worry.
gob-smacked by the cancer diagnosis for one of my very best friends.
a fair amount of personal heartache and disappointment.
doubt.

and for it all, i am so thankful.
so instead of the post with quick tips and insights i drafted,
i’d like to just soak in these last moments of what has become a truly magical and inspiring year.

{a thousand thank yous to my friend, dawn, for capturing this moment in time for us}

Appreciation Notes - Free Download Printable Thank You Cards

2011-12-29T09:55:00.001-08:00

One of my very favorite parts of the holiday season... thank you card writing! Something about sitting down and reflecting on all we were given and blessed with makes my heart smile. And now, with little ones, I'd like to instill the habit of handwritten appreciation. The teacher part of me always creates 'scaffolded' notes that my son can expand upon to learn format and sentence structure. Plus, it makes the whole process accessible for an almost four year-old. I created these simple little notes for my son and while I'm not going to be earning any graphic design awards, I thought they're cute enough to share!

Click the on the notecard or down below to print out your free notecard! (comes two to a page, just print on card stock & cut in half)

{download}

my thanks to you:

Happy appreciation writing & letter sending!

Best of....Posts for Creative Entrepreneurs

2011-12-28T14:45:00.000-08:00

In this in-between time of the holiday rush and developing new products (ipad cases & wedding collection coming soon!), I've been enjoying quiet(ish) early mornings writing lots of new businessy posts. Some to keep here and some to share on others blogs and sites...

But with the year drawing to a close, I thought I'd highlight some of my favorite business posts I've written this year. Even when I re-read them, I learn something new!

Thinking Like a Buyer: Improve your brand and shop by drawing from the buyer's perspective.

Busyness vs. Business: Wading through the hustle & bustle of everyday tasks to grow and strengthen your brand

For What It's Worth: Determining worth for small, creative businesses

Holding on & Letting Go - Returning to business after baby. Really shared my soul with this guest post over at Oh My Handmade. This post seems to apply to working through any transition...

The Power of Letting Go - Some dreams are meant to be shelved...or even let go. Realizing what to keep and what to say goodbye to on your creative journey

How about for you? Is there a post somewhere in the blog-o-verse that really resonated with you this year? One so memorable you recall it even now? If so, I'd love to hear about it!

{image credit: The Paper Machines}

Vintage Sewing Box

2011-12-27T14:29:00.000-08:00

Looky look at what I found under the Christmas tree...a vintage Strommen Bruk Hamar sewing cabinet! It's just beautiful. My husband surprised me with this and it's one of the best presents ever- so thoughtful and ready to be loved again by me!

Made in Norway in the 1950's and 60's the little details are just amazing....

I love imagining the previous lives of vintage furniture...I'm thinking of a very sweet, yet savvy New York seamstress took care of this cabinet. She designed and fitted her own dresses. Enjoyed cozy afternoons at her sewing machine and bright sunny days out & about.
{who knows! but maybe! wink, wink}

handles, so perfect.

closed....

open! And ready to be filled!

I am looking forward to spending an afternoon reorganizing my studio and storing my sewing supplies away in this treasure.

Hope everyone had a lovely holiday! Would love to hear what treasures you found under the tree...or...what presents you proudly gave :)

Happy Wishes

2011-12-24T09:29:00.000-08:00

Very merry wishes for a happy and joyous Christmas!

Crafty Goodness

2011-12-22T15:29:00.000-08:00

Whew. Taking a break to share some crafty goodness I made this week...I honestly thought I'd have it all completed sooner to offer up some tutorials and inspiration...but, well, you know how it is :) In fact, I'm still whipping up a few last-minute gifts!

a mix of photos....

holiday wreath. pretty much the easiest project ever.

cross stitch ornaments for the boys. every year I make new, handmade ornaments...this year I got to make two!

a little hand embroidered love

matching chevron stockings with chain-stitched names. Proud of these beauties!

Winter star coasters (used the remaining bits from my wreath...clever, huh :)

Catnip fishies for Boston Kitty

Work in progress: Banner for Luke. I made one for Jack....and since they share a room I think the two banners will be extra cute!

Tell me, what last-minute projects are you finishing up? {please tell me I'm not the only one stitching & making!}

Things I Love - Fellow Fellow

2011-12-21T07:28:00.000-08:00

{paper feather tags}

Taking a brief break from all our merry-making and my last minute gift making (stockings and ornaments and cat toys, oh my!) to share a lovely, lovely shop I found this month. Fellow Fellow is truly a charming little spot in the world...and the owner, Claire, is equally as sweet! Just take a look at these beauties!

{diy banner - genius!}

{notepads}

{paper butterfly garland}

I Heart Mollie Makes!

2011-12-19T13:55:00.000-08:00

Goodness me! Mollie Makes included Rise and Shine, my ebook for creative entrepreneurs, in Issue 9! This magazine is seriously one of my most favorite- and not just because they had super sweet things to say about my book and handbags or because they included one of my frame purses in the September issue (!) but because this magazine is filled to the brim with awesomeness for makers. Really.

Now, off to enjoy my celebratory mint hot chocolate! Care to join me? xo

{update: thanks to my lovely readers for asking more about this awesome magazine- it's a newer, London-based publication available in select US stores...they have a charming blog too! http://molliemakes.themakingspot.com/ }

Gift Tag Lovin'

2011-12-16T15:02:00.000-08:00

Wading waist high in wrapping paper & ribbon over here...thought I'd share some lovely printable gift tags I've found! (and these babies are all free :)

Knit Gift Tag Beauties from Eat, Drink, Chic

More lovelies from Eat Drink Chic

Wood Type Tags and Holiday Kit from ellinee

Reindeer Tags from Studio 67 via Creature Comforts

Holiday Gift Tags from Love Vs. Design

Simple Holiday Tags from Little Paper Dog

What's your style for holiday wrapping? Some folks have a theme each year...honestly, this year my approach is reuse & use it up- my Christmas bin has acquired so much miss match- it's been fun putting together color combos and finding new uses for odds & ends.

{ps. don't forget the woodland recipe & tag set stephanie fizer dreamed up for me...}

Mmm, Sparkle Cookies and My Gift To You

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Little Man Jack loves to bake. And to give.

I love him so!

We've made about 4 dozen of these Sparkle Ginger Cookies this season....and have plans for a whole lot more. These little beauties are vegan - all of our baked yummies are- but they fool even the pickiest of skeptics (granted, most folks aren't too discerning when it comes to cookies.... but these are especially delicious!)

Next on our to-bake list includes Chocolate Peanut Butter Oaties, Peppermint Bark, & "Something that we can put sprinkles on mama."

In the spirit of giving, I teamed up with Stephanie Fizer-Coleman and shared my recipe for these Sparkle cookies along with a charming recipe and gift tag set. Hop on over to Oh My Handmade, say hello & print out our little gift to you!

Printable 2012 Owl Calendar (and it's free!)

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this beauty?! It's a gorgeous calendar featuring lovely designers...and it's all owls...and it's free! Courtesy of the Owl Barn-- you can print it out month by month, choosing which design you'd prefer (but really, how can you choose?) or just opt for their pre-made version. Lots of other lovely designs to choose from:

Print on thick cardstock, tie with string, a voila!a gorgeous gift....

A Merry Little Sale

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Just in time for last minute holiday shopping...or treating yourself to a little something for such an amazing year! Everything in my shop is ready to be shipped out and loved. Since I'm upgrading all US Domestic orders to Priority Shipping you could have your lovelies by the end of the week.

This sweet little deal lasts until just Midnight on Tuesday December 13th....after that I'll be taking a bit of break - stitching up some holiday decorations, enjoying time with my little ones, and planning for the new year!

Wonderland

2011-12-10T07:30:00.001-08:00

Whew.
It's been a busy/crazy/happy week filled with lots of merry making and cold sunshine....and me sewing my little heart out at ridiculous hours of the day.

And I love it!

Today, I'm headed off to Crafty Wonderland, the only craft show I do. After reminding myself of my own craft fair tips from last time and packing it all up, we're on our way!

The shop is bare (naked!) for now but I'll be reopening tomorrow night for a little last minute shopping (psst: if you're looking for some last minute gifts, sign up to receive my newsletter for a little last minute sales event coming up...)

And then, I'll be winding down to prepare and enjoy in family festivities....with a 3 year-old and a baby, this year is positively magical!

newness....one of a kind lovelies taking to the show today.

the before...

card cases - box one of two

poppy production

poppy party!

packing up....

Look forward to sharing more photos of the show later...and maybe even a few via twitter while I'm there.

here's a glimpse of the fun - little brother watching big brother, waiting for his turn :)

Happy weekend!
xo

Guest Post- Noisette Marketing

2011-12-08T06:07:00.001-08:00

Hello! Lots of excitement over here...love the hustle & bustle of this time of year and planning big things for 2012. Making some changes and taking new directions...

Speaking of moving onward, I've shared some thoughts on growing your business- Without your blinders on over at Noisette Marketing today (it's a little bit of tough talk, but trust me, we all need it time and again :)

A little peek:

Listen to what your buyers are NOT saying.

Doing it well vs. doing it best.

Welcome criticism.

Open the door to that monster in your closet.

Come on over, say hello, and tell me how you're moving ahead!

{Photo credit Abby Try Again}

Business Tips: Lessons from the Postal Service

2011-12-06T06:29:00.001-08:00

In case you haven't heard the United States Postal Service is cutting back. Majorly.

An agency that has long faced difficulties; financial woes and negative public opinion, it will cut service and increase prices in January. There is sticky legislation and bureaucracy involved but I think they are making terrible mistakes.

The same ones many other businesses (like me!) often make. Let's learn from their (ginormous) errors and apply these lessons to our own brands.

What the USPS (and other brands) should be doing:

Tell Your Story: It's what makes us care about you. The USPS has a wonderfully dramatic and nostalgic place in history. It's part of the Constitution for pete's sake. I mean, have you heard it's creed? "Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds" Why, oh why are they not sharing this story with us? Images of The Pony Express, WWII era postcards, tiny posts along the Oregon Trail, all these things come to mind as story points to build upon. Other carriers lack this rich history....it's a point of differentiation. Just like other businesses, the USPS should be telling their story.
Identify Your Market: The post office seems unsure of who they're selling to...or that they're actually selling something at all. Identifying your market can be tricky, but consider what value you offer and who benefits. For example, the USPS repeats this line as a reason for their demise, "people just do things online now." Um, hello? This is their market. I mean, I'm pretty sure I order and ship enough stuff to keep my local post office afloat (kidding). But multiple that times a gazillion for all the other business that ship from home...and there's a sizeable market. So why hasn't anyone (not one single postal worker) ever talked to me about their business services? USPS should be honing in on the people who do need and want their services. One way to get to know your market? Start a conversation.
Embrace Who You Are: Instead of just fighting current trends, embrace who you are as a business. For USPS, this means traditional postal services. There is a steady appreciation for handwritten letters and people still love opening their mailboxes to find something inside (psst, here's another market niche). Remind people of this...make them fall in love with "snail mail" again. In fact, call it something else ('traditional correspondence') or something. Take back the discourse....and make it your own.
Cut Costs...Meaningfully: Running a successful business means keeping costs to a minimum. Got it. But it doesn't mean just cutting numbers. I see the USPS trimming jobs and processing centers which may very well be necessary. But I subscribe by the 'every little thing counts' rule- cut backs should include cleaning out all those cluttery, inefficient post offices (One look at the mess of post notes and memos strewn about my local office, is it any wonder packages go missing?) This type of trimming may only have a nominal effect on the bottom line, but it can make up for it tenfold in what it says to the customer. We're serious about efficiency.
Collaborate: It adds dimension to your brand. Shores up your weaknesses and highlights your strengths. The USPS does a bit of this (e.g. Hallmark and Small Business Administration). But I think they can do more. And when you partner up, make it count....and share what you've created.

Actively Define Your Brand (this is a biggie!): Workers should be looked at more than just what tasks they complete but how they define the brand. Hopefully the USPS considers this in all their number crunching. I see it as the biggest failure of the USPS (and many businesses) - people passively representing their brand. I have no idea what type of training the USPS provides it's workers but it sure seems to me that there is a lack of brand loyalty here. What I'd love to see: a) local post offices embracing their space to make it their own b) postal workers sharing their personal stories c) workers seeking out ways to provide & share services rather than the current model of "we're doing you a favor of delivering your packages."
Focus On What You've Got: Nobody wants to hear what you don't do. Talk of what you can't provide makes your brand insignificant. Instead, focus on what you've got going for you. USPS provides free priority boxes (free, people, free!), they will even walk to your door and pick them up, their website is pretty easy to navigate, and you can print your labels online. I want to hear more talk of this, value being added on. I don't want to hear about what can't be shipped or tracked or completed. Fix it and show me what you've got.

Alright, well that's just a bit on how things would change if I ran the world, er, the post office. But in any case, I really find it effective to analyze business mistakes and successes around us and apply it to our own brands. Hopefully, you found a few takeaways to build upon here. I do offer personal business coaching if you'd like more personalized feedback....that includes you, USPS, if you need some consult ;)

{image courtesy zswilkinson}

Make It Do Monday - Unsubscribe

2011-12-05T11:50:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago Arianne Faulks from Aeolidia shared a stop-me-in-my-tracks kind of post on Oh My Handmade - "End Each Day With an Empty Inbox."

My first thought was, "Do some people really have empty inboxes? I want one!" I didn't care if I only whittled my inbox that runneth over down to half, it had to be better than the virtual mess I had going on. I implemented many of her tips (brilliant they are!) and have since enjoyed a much more focused inbox. I ended up unsubscribing to dozens of newsletters and messages- many of which I honestly don't remember signing up for, but somehow got in the habit of just deleting every morning.

But the whole process got me thinking....

How many times do I go through life just deleting things; comments, thoughts in my head, memories, images? Each morning waking up to the same old figurative junk mail that I never pay attention to but waste time "clicking and deleting"?

So, I've made it sort of a simplifying celebration this month- identifying not just what needs to go, but what should not even be here in the first place. Like the random newsletters, political emails, guilt-inducing animal rights campaigns (still a member, but I just can't look at those photos everyday!), and messages that fall short of inspiring -- I'm unsubscribing to the "junk mail" in my head.

And it feels sooo good.

{image credit thriftypyg}

A Few Things to Love

2011-12-03T06:20:00.001-08:00

Whew, it's been a busy week over here. Order making, holiday crafting, winter weather enjoying, baby snuggling, preschooler castle and pyramid imagining, cookie baking, and big things planning.

I did manage to spy a few lovely things however and thought I'd share them with you...enjoy!

Classic books with embroidery covers by Jillian Tamaki as seen in Purl Bee's 2011 Gift Guide. I remember holing myself away in middle school reading the Secret Garden & Black Beauty...these covers would've made it even more extraordinary.

Custom pet portraits from Two Brunettes. I so want this for our kitty, Boston! These are amazing!

Folk drawing from the lovely shop Swallowfield - I love everything in this shop!

Winter Tea Towel from Our Workshop. Modern and bold and awesome.

Cross Stitch Family Portrait tutorial from Martha Stewart. I really want to do this...and look! The dad is carrying le bebe in a front pack, how cute!

Thank you for enjoying this fun break with me....now back to the merry-making! xoxo

Ultimate Entrepreneur Giveaway with Oh My Handmade

2011-12-01T04:47:00.001-08:00

Holy Moly.
You cannot miss this.
Small business? Have a little shop you want to grow? Your brand need a makeover...and push in the right direction?

You must head over to Oh My Handmade where Jessika has created the Ultimate Entrepreneur Giveaway ( and it really is the ultimate!) Includes awesome prizes like logo design, mentorship, copywriting, advertising, ebooks, it goes on & on! And included in all that awesomeness is a Study Hall coaching session from me!

So really- get on over there & enter! Don't have a small business?...then pass this on to someone who does, because this is really a life-changing thing we've got here ;)

Shops That Shine - Suite One Studios

2011-11-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

{ Hello! I am thrilled to take a break from all the hustle & bustle to share a truly lovely shop today. Lindsay from Suite One Studios is as authentic as it gets...not to mention she's chock full of talent! }

I love hearing where makers draw their inspiration from, can you share with us where you find yours?

I find inspiration just about anywhere. I keep myself open to exploring inspiration anywhere my eyes or hands may linger. I want my pottery to be enjoyed both visually and tactilely and because of this I am always considering pottery as I enjoy my world. Nature presents one of the greatest sources for inspiration, perhaps in part because of the medium itself- clay. I love simple, understated elegance and find myself drawn to clean modern lines and organic imperfections. My color palette and forms reflect a delicate balance between the colorful commercial world and the softer side of the natural world.

Your shop is beyond lovely....and looks effortless! We know it can be difficult behind the scenes though. Describe the most difficult aspect to running a successful creative small business for you, and how you work to overcome it.
It is both terrifying and exhilarating to accept that my success is my own. I am in control of my brand, my designs and my reputation; everything comes down to choices I make and their resulting consequences. I always knew I wanted to be an artist but I never considered that I would find myself running a business. In my early dreams there was a gap between creating art and getting paid for it. I knew I wanted to be paid for my art, but the “how” was, and still is a challenge for me to understand and overcome. Running my own business means being my own boss, and I love nearly every aspect of this, but it is also the source for my greatest struggles as a business owner and artist. I have learned the best way for me to overcome these obstacles is to view them as opportunities for growth.

What efforts do you take to make your shop shine?

I spend a great deal of time working on my product photos, and with running an online shop this is a necessity. Pottery is part visual pleasure, part tactile comfort. Selling pots online automatically cancels out the tactile component of what makes a good pot a good pot. I rely on my product photos to convey texture, feeling, weight and function. I have learned the importance of taking clear photos, using natural light and close-ups to allow the consumer to visually experience all the things the hands normally decide when choosing a piece of pottery. I also spend a great deal of time making each piece from hand without molds and mixing my own glazes from minerals, oxides and stains. These extra little details are perhaps my favorite parts of making my work, and are precisely what makes my shop shine.

How do you see your business growing in the future?

I see my business gaining momentum in the future and evolving naturally to fit comfortably in my life. I am excited to be able to say that in the last year my business has become my full-time job! I feel really positive about the future and see limitless possibilities. I am not certain yet the way my business will grow, but I am certain that it will remain a part of my life. I would like to find my way into a studio space outside of my house. I am currently running some aspect of my business from nearly every room in my house. I am looking forward to having a dedicated work space where I can stretch out a little bit- without worrying about knocking over a piece of porcelain!

Tell us what’s in store for your shop; any new products, shop changes, or celebrations?

I have a love for sitting at a beautifully presented table. I have a love for good food. And, I have an even bigger love for slowing down and spending time with those important people in my life. I am experiencing a subtle shift in my work to reflect these loves. I am working on developing a stronger dinnerware line and am really looking forward to revealing these new products which will add elegance and celebration to even the simplest meal!

November marks my two year Etsy Anniversary and I am sure I will have a fabulous sale of some sort to celebrate this milestone! I have so enjoyed the last two years and still find myself standing in awe of all I have accomplished with the support of my amazing customers, friends and family.

You’ve clearly established a successful shop, can you offer one piece of golden advice for those just starting out?

Don’t underestimate yourself. If you have an idea or dream in mind stay committed and create a path for yourself, as unconventional as it may be. My business grew at a time in my life when almost all odds were against me. I was working two jobs and going to school, and rarely had a minute to spare. I would spend my days at work thinking about the pottery I wanted to be making, and if I managed to extract twenty minutes from the entire week I would sit at my wheel and all of those pottery ideas would pour out of me in that short little session. I now fire my kiln about three times a week, but in the beginning it easily took me six months before I had enough pottery for a single firing. There were times when I became discouraged but I continued to stay focused and daydream about one day making a living from my pottery. I slowly began listing pictures of my work online and very, very slowly began selling my work. This was not an instant career shift for me. I think it is important to be realistic with ourselves, but to still keep that dreamer inside of us alive. If you have a dream just start. Even if the start feels like the teensiest tiniest little baby step, it is a start, and beginning a dream is never a regret.

Thank you Lindsay for sharing your process and dreams!

Find Lindsay here:
shop
blog
facebook
twitter

( know a shop that shines? does your shop stand out? submit your link to me at

allisa{dot} jacobs {at} gmail {dot} com for consideration to be included in the new

year)

Advent Calendar Tutorial Collection

2011-11-27T05:11:00.001-08:00

Adding this list of advent tutorials to one of my all time favorite calendars from Purl Bee.

Paper cones on a branch: from The Red Thread includes printable numbers PDFs

Silhouette envelopes: from Le Papier Studio includes printable sticker PDFs

Stamped pouches: from NuvoNova *not a tutorial but the possibilities with these are endless!

Fabric Gift Tags: from Skip to my Lou

let the merry-making begin!

Thankful

2011-11-24T06:26:00.001-08:00

My heart is full of thanks.

Blessing & happiness & laughter to you & your family today!

Shops That Shine - Stephanie Fizer Coleman

2011-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

{Hello! So happy to have Stephanie Fizer- Coleman here today. I've connected with her during the last year after spotting her charming shop-- she is a gifted artist and inspiration to other with handmade businesses. }

I love hearing where makers draw their inspiration from, can you share with us where you find yours?

For me, it seems that inspiration is everywhere and I'm constanty having ideas pop into my head. Honestly, it's a great problem to have although it can even be a teensy bit frustrating because I don't always have time to drop whatever I'm doing and dive into a new idea—although sometimes the new idea is so good, I just have to start working on it right away! I always keep an idea journal on hand though, so I can scribble down my ideas, make rough sketches and keep track of things that inspire me.

Generally speaking, I draw a lot of inspiration from nature. I grew up in a rural area surrounded by forest and I now live in small college town that is brimming with trees, flowers and rivers so I'm always finding myself being taken in by the colors and textures of nature. Colors and patterns in general really inspire me too as do vintage illustrations, especially vintage children's illustrations.

I notice that you are a self-taught artist (wow!), what steps have you taken to continuously learn and improve upon your craft?

Well, I learned initially from reading tons of art and technique books at first and then later by going through any online tutorials I could find. And I think that's still an important part of how I continue to learn and grow as an artist, I'm still always adding new art and craft books to my library and I still enjoy browsing through tutorials when I have time.

People always ask me what books I learned from, as if there is a magic formula, but honestly I've always just poured over all sorts of art and craft books. The style I've developed as an artist is the result of studying so many different things over the last few years. My library now contains books on everything from flower identification and typography and from drawing comic books to drawing fairies.

Of course, as I always tell my Inspired Doodles students, the only way to become better at any thing is to practice. If you want to be an artist, you've got to make time for your art every day, even if it's just a few scribbles in a sketchbook.

Your charming designs are available in wide range of products including stickers, book plates, note cards and postcards. I’d love to hear more about your process for creating and launching new products.

Usually a product idea will start out as a scribbled note in my idea book. I used to just try to crank out new products as fast as possible, but I've found that I get better results when I take the time to really think things through.

My first step is always trying to figure out how I can product whatever product I have in mind. I have a big fancy Epson printer, so I print some products here in my studio, but in other cases I outsource some of my printing. When thinking up a new product, deciding whether to produce it in my studio or outsource it really comes down to two factors: time and money. Do I have enough time to make this product and still be able to sell it at a reasonable price? Would producing it on my own be more or less cost effective than outsourcing some parts of the process?

And of course, I also consider when outsourcing some pieces of my product whether the quality will meet my standards.

Once I've figured out the how to my product creation puzzle, I can get down to actually designing the product. And from there it's just a matter of sourcing my materials and either starting the printing process here in my studio or sending files off to the printer.

Lastly, once everything is ready, I plan out my packaging design and that's it!

Which aspect of running a creative business is the most enjoyable to you? And which has challenged you the most?

I love the part where I actually get to sit down and draw things, of course! I usually spend my morning taking care of business stuff—answering emails, shipping orders, accounting, etc—so I can spend the rest of my day focusing on freelance work or creating new illustrations for my shop.

Probably the most challenging thing for me has always been self-promotion. I'm kinda shy when it comes to talking about myself so when I first started out, I was a bit shy about talking about my business too. Now, of course, self-promotion and social networking is a big part of how I run my business and stay connected with my customers. It was a struggle at first to overcome my natural shyness, but in the end I'm so happy to have finally learned to openly share my business.

In addition to your lovely designs, you also offer creative and business related crash courses. Can you share a bit about why you developed these workshops and what they offer other entrepreneurs?

I've been teaching online workshop for a couple of years now. I started out with Flourish which was an ecourse that focused on creating and running an indie biz. And the most recently in 2011 I started offering Inspired Doodles, which focuses a bit on the method I used to teach myself to draw and a bit on tutorials of how I create my work in Photoshop, etc.

In both of these past workshops, I'd frequently gotten emails from people who really wanted to take part but who couldn't dedicate 4 or 5 weeks to a course because of other obligations. You know how it is, we're all so busy these days that sometimes it is difficult to make time for the things we really want to do.

So Crash Courses were born out of my desire to share my teaching with students would didn't have a lot of time but were still interested in exploring business and creative topics. The Crash Courses are short one week workshops that are delivered daily via email and depending on my schedule, I usually offer a new Crash Course every other month, each one on a new topic.

Thank you Stephanie for sharing your talent and story with us! Look forward to seeing what you create in the new year.

you can find Stephanie here:
website
twitter
facebook

{{do you know a shop that shines? would you like to be considered for a feature? Please send submissions to allisa.jacobs [at] gmail [dot] com }}

Make It Do Monday - Project: Give Thanks

2011-11-20T19:30:00.001-08:00

My quest to simplify & appreciate moves on...and just in time for the season of thankfulness and giving.

I made this little thankful board for our family to come together and share what we really appreciate. Not only is the end product rewarding but it was fun to do together...and we can just keep adding to it this week.

For our crafts and holiday decorations this year, I've been trying to create ones that can move on with the seasons and be reused. So just like my felt flower wreath, this frame with linen-covered cork board can be re-purposed (I'm thinking advent design or tree with handmade ornaments)

From Jack: "cat, mom, dad, Luke" (Love!)

To make this board, I took a yard sale find frame painted it and inserted a cork board I covered with linen. I trimmed card stock into these tag shapes & added dried leaves we collected on our nature walk.

Happy giving thanks week!

ps. thank you for all the lovely feedback and sharing on last week's post; Saying Goodbye to Someday

Ready, Set, Launch! Business Coaching

2011-11-17T10:36:00.001-08:00

This year, I've been answering all these questions for myself and now hope to help others in pursuit of their dreams.

After much thought and reflection- I've decided to pursue an additional direction: business coaching.

For me, it's a natural progression. I have a genuine desire to support others along with a fiery entrepreneurial spirit . So, I've taken my career in education and combined it with my experience in running a successful handmade business to develop Study Hall.

Study Hall is business coaching taken back to the basics. I'm not here with quick tips of marketing magic, but instead offer meaningful, personalized advice to help others transform their brands. I'm not going to shout about glitter and shine but instead vow to encourage, guide, and motivate. I believe in conversations and relationships to make things happen.

Interested? Read more and find session information on my Business Coaching page.

Shops that Shine - Creative Mamma

2011-11-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

Incredibly happy to have Joy from Creative Mamma here today to chat about her work. I first connected with Joy through the Oh My Handmade community and was immediately impressed by her authenticity and kindness. She shines as a source of creativity and inspiration. I've especially enjoyed discussing motherhood and transitions with Joy...which is why I'm so glad she's here to share her perspective.

Welcome Joy! Your drawings & design are charming - tell us where you find your inspiration.

Thanks so much for having me, Allisa! I’m honored to be a part of this wonderful series and I really have enjoyed learning about the other shops that you have featured. With regards to my inspiration, my drawings are inspired by just about anything (I know, I know, everyone says that – but it’s true!). The printables that I make are usually inspired by my kids. I love making things that they can hopefully use in the future. Oh, and since I was a former teacher, I love to make things that teachers can use in their classrooms.

You’ve mentioned your shop is in a transitional phase, can you tell a bit more about what changes, adjustments, or directions you’re taking the business?

In February of this year, my second baby was born. For some reason, I thought that I can keep the momentum of my creative business and balance the two little guys/family, and a full time job. After a few stressful months, I had to really evaluate what I was doing. Having a stressed out mom is no fun for anyone, so I made the decision to take huge step back and focus on my family.

Currently, I'm just having fun creating/drawing. Most of what I make end up being free. Since I started giving things away, I've gotten so much in return (freelance jobs, etc), that I'm really just enjoying this phase of my life. I'm also taking classes/learning a lot because I feel a shift in my art and I'm just going with it... Plus, not having the pressure of running the shop on top of my regular job and raising the babies has been such a huge weight off my shoulders. Life is just way to short to be stressed all the time.
My current plan is to make some fun free printables, do a little freelance work on the side, and enjoy every moment with my guys.

Which aspect of creative business is the most enjoyable to you? And which has challenged you the most?

I think the most enjoyable part of the business (aside from creating) is the social aspect. I really enjoy meeting and connecting with people on twitter, etc. The flip side of that is also the most challenging, I feel like I’m always behind in my social media interactions. Social media has become a little bit overwhelming to me right now – so I’m also taking more breaks and stepping away from twitter and facebook from time to time.

How have you approached balancing family & work & creating? What works best for you?
To be honest, I don’t think that I will ever learn how to balance everything, and I’m ok with that. I’m the type of person that has to learn the hard way every time, so here are some tricks that has helped me along the way:

It’s ok to take the long road. I don’t like driving on the highway, so I will purposely take the long-side-street way to get to my destination. The travel time is a little bit longer, but I get to my destination eventually. So with my business, I’m ok, that things are slow – I’ll get to my creative destination at some point, it might just take me a little longer to get there.
It’s ok to not do it all. This was hard for me to accept because I’m the type of person that takes something on and gives it 110%. So when I had to evaluate my life, I had to really switch my mindset and learn to just chill out and enjoy life rather than run through it.
It’s ok to take a break. I wake up extra early so I can put in some drawing time everyday. It’s my form of meditation. When I take breaks for myself, I find that I can focus on my family/life more.

What is your biggest dream for Creative Mamma?
My ultimate dream for Creative Mamma is for the website to be a place where people can go to find fun/useful things (apps, printables, etc.) that they can use in their day to day.

Thanks again for having me, Allisa!

you can find more of Joy here:

Creative Mamma CreativeMamma.com
Facebook Facebook.com/CreativeMamma
Twitter twitter.com/JoyCharde
Etsy etsy.com/theartofjoy

Success

2011-11-15T15:37:00.001-08:00

I'm over at The Academy today discussing my definition of success. I'd love to hear your thoughts, come on over and say hello!

{image courtesy artsy girl studio}

Make It Do Monday - Saying Goodbye.....

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

....to someday.
In my quest to simplify I've been focused on living more thoughtfully, with less noise, more things made at home, and parting ways with extras. I said goodbye to lots of stuff this week and more symbolically said farewell to 'someday.'

As in,
someday this shirt might actually be flattering
someday I might want to look at this depressing photograph
someday I may want to read this card from someone I no longer love
someday this scrap of fabric may be just the thing I need
someday I'll pass this book to someone who might want it
someday these jeans won't feel so tight
someday I'll feel inspired to wear shimmery green eye shadow
someday I'll miss this trinket that once meant something

But instead, I let all those thoughts go.

I recycled, gave away,and sold someday.

Now, I have room for today.

is there a someday you can say goodbye to?

{print via Hands Workshop}

Design Study - Houndstooth

2011-11-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

hounds·tooth/ˈhoun(d)zˌtooTH/

Noun:

A large checked pattern with notched corners suggestive of a canine tooth, typically used in cloth for jackets and suits.

Pendleton Throw Blanket from Oh This Nose

Coat from Louisa Bonheur

Kitty from Penguin and Fish

Baby Booties from Garden Alley

Bamboo Coasters from Masters of None

Bag from Dish Handbags

Quilt Pattern from V. and Co.

Perfect finds for a warm & cozy Friday!

Planning for Holiday Shoppers

2011-11-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

Procrastinating husbands, frugal teachers, savvy mothers, hopeful boyfriends, thoughtful friends, computer nervous grandparents, undecided brothers….these are your holiday shoppers.

Think beyond your typical market to welcome all types of buyers this season!

Check out my post on Oh My Handmade for specific ways to prepare for everyone.

psst. what type of buyer are you?

Planner or Procrastinator

{lovely wrapping courtesy Merriweather Council}

Shops That Shine - Imeon Design

2011-11-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

So happy to have Noemi from Imeon Design here today for my Shops that Shine series. She shares a short & sweet look into her business and her lovely creations!

Describe the most difficult aspect to running a successful creative small business for you, and how you work to overcome it.

The most difficult aspect of running a small business, especially an online one is trying to take photographs that show clear and accurate details of the product that's been made. Even though there are many businesses big and small that have had online shops for years, trying to convince a prospect customer, who won't get a chance to see your items in person prior to purchasing is not easy.

When I first opened my shop, my pictures were mediocre. By playing around with various textured backgrounds, light boxes and lamps, I finally managed to figure out what worked best and that was natural lighting. As natural lighting differs from season to season, I take note of what time of day produces the best photos and try to take photos only during that particular time of day.

What efforts do you take to make your shop shine?

One thing that remains constant in the products I create is that they are an expression of myself. I put my heart into everything I make and will rarely list an item that I'm not 100% satisfied with.

How do you see your business growing in the future?

Along with trying to get my items in local shops and craft fairs, I hope to grow my business by expanding my creativity into photography, sewing and more detailed and layered paper designs.

Tell us what's in store for your shop; any new products, shop changes or celebrations?

I will be celebrating my 3rd year as a small online shop at the end of March. This is a great milestone for me, because it was not in my initial plans to come as far as I have or to still be doing this. I had intended to go back to a 9-5 job once my kids entered school.

You've established a successful shop, can you offer one piece of golden advice for those just starting out?

Be true to who you are and the rest will fall into place.

Thank you Noemi for sharing your wisdom and ideas with us. Best of luck for continued success!

find Imeon Design:

shop: imeondesign.etsy.com

twitter: twitter.com/imeondesign

{{do you know a shop that shines? would you like to be considered for a feature? Please send submissions to allisa.jacobs [at] gmail [dot] com }}

Make It Do Monday - Felt Flower Wreath

2011-11-07T06:52:00.000-08:00

I've wanted to make a wreath for our door for ages. In the spirit of Make It Do, I hoped to make a wreath that I could change with the seasons and one that would use up some of my extras. And this one does just that!

I wrapped strips of linen scraps I had laying around the styrofoam wreath form (which I salvaged from my mom's craft project reject pile). Then, using my beloved Accuquilt cutter, I made a bunch of felt flowers. I chose black for Halloween but my plan is to change them out (and use up all my scraps!) for each holiday and season. Just imagine red + silver for Christmas and yellow + gray + turquoise for spring. Working on changing it out for Thanksgiving now - the Go!Baby fabric cutter makes it super easy.....

...plus Jack loves using the machine to crank them out!

I used the Funky Flower die cut to make about 20 flowers. I pinched each flower, adding dimension and then pinned in place. The pins make it easy to move the flowers around and eventually change out when I'm ready for something new!

thankful for....

2011-11-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

this print from laura george just makes me happy. it pretty much is my actual thankful-for list.

feels like life is in a very different-significant-interesting-uncertain-intense-unnerving state right now. like there is something right around the corner or some decision i'm supposed to make and i just don't know it yet. this whole week i've felt a pull in my stomach and a bit of insomnia. i walked around dazed and worried.

i'm turning to the advice i tell my son when he's anxious or upset...

pray. then think of all the things you're thankful for.

Shops that Shine - Prunella Soap

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm really happy to have Janell from Prunella Soap here today to share a little about her inspiration, technique, and business perspective. For me, there is so much to love about Prunella - a Portland maker, vegan ingredients, and an overall charming shop.

Welcome to my Shops That Shine Series! I love hearing from where makers draw their inspiration, can you share with us where you find yours?

Thank you, Allisa, for the opportunity to share more about Prunella Soap! Sometimes I feel like my business is evolving so quickly, it’s great to have the chance to step back and observe the path that the business has taken so far, and think about where it’s heading.

Generally I am drawn to products that have clean lines and simple color palettes. I love products that are very simple and straight forward but at the same time it’s apparent that the materials and construction are of high quality and have been well thought out. I am inspired by modern architecture, interiors and modern classic furniture design and I also enjoy reading cookbooks and blogs that contain recipes using fresh, local and organic ingredients to make amazing meals. I also love baking, and am inspired by looking at recipes of artisanal breads, cakes and French pastries. When choosing my soap recipes I take into consideration the origin of the ingredients and enjoy learning more about the healing properties and cultural traditions of the natural spices and herbs that I use.

From the vegan ingredients to charming photography your shop really stands out in the world of handmade soap. What’s your approach to differentiating Prunella Soap?

My main focus was to create a product that uses all natural, mostly food-grade ingredients that are plant-based as opposed to coming from animals. I use only essential oils – no artificial dyes, fragrances or preservatives in the soap.

Managing stock levels of a product that needs to cure for 3-4 weeks before it’s ready to sell can be challenging, so one thing I am very focused on is keeping the majority of scents in stock all of the time. I also want to be able to accommodate last minute orders once in awhile, because it’s always a great feeling to be able to provide customers exactly what they want within their timeframe.

I chose to name my products in a very straight forward way because it can be difficult to sell fragrances online, and calling a scent “midnight symphony” or “glittering sunrise” just adds another layer of confusion to the online purchasing experience.

As far as photo styling, I wanted to have a fun, playful and modern aesthetic because looking at a bars of soap online can be pretty boring. I have a simple point-and-shoot Canon digital camera and am lucky to take my photos in a space that has wonderful, unobstructed natural light.

How do you see your business growing in the future?

I would love to eventually have my own website, and work with more boutiques all across the US.

Which aspect of running a creative business is the most enjoyable to you? And which has challenged you the most?

I really love bringing together tangible, handmade products with technology, which is both fun and challenging at the same time. It’s an amazing experience to use the internet as a platform to create a business with a relatively small initial financial investment and the ability to reach a giant market of consumers in seconds, but it’s also the biggest challenge. There is such a large amount of choice for consumers now that as a businessperson you have to figure out a way to outshine the thousands of competitors, from all over the world. Some days the fact that I have packages going out to Norway and Saudi Arabia absolutely blows me away, I really enjoy the global aspect of having an online business.

Tell us more about the old-fashioned method use to create your lovely soaps.

Making lye soap is actually really similar to baking, except that you have to be really careful when handling lye, because it’s highly caustic until it’s mixed with the oils and has “saponified” them into soap. Once the lye is mixed with the water and is set aside to cool, it’s all about mixing the oils, spices and scents which is the fun part. It’s important to get the ratio of ingredients exactly right, otherwise the soap will either be too drying to the skin, or will be too slick and not rinse off easily. I use the same three base oils in all of my soaps, so the only difference is the scent of the essential oil used and the other exfoliants (coffee beans, oatmeal, poppy seeds etc.) that are added. The pH of handmade cold process soap is typically lower than that of commercially produced soap, so many people who use it find that it is less drying to the skin than regular bar soap and also a good option for sensitive skin.

How did you prepare for the opening of Prunella Soap?

I think the biggest part of preparing to sell Prunella was designing the packaging and labels, and to make sure that all of the ingredients were listed accurately on each label. I had been selling greeting cards on Etsy for 6 months (cooljane), so I had a pretty good idea of how much time it takes photograph products, edit photos, create listings, prepare packages for shipping and interact with customers. It’s been so tempting for me to want to rush the process of releasing new products, but whenever I list something new, I envision a football stadium full of people sitting looking at a big screen with one of my photos on it. I ask myself “is this something I want potentially thousands of people to be able to see?” It’s a good indication of whether or not I feel ready to launch something new.

I always say “starting is the hardest part” and if you would have told me a few years ago that I would be putting a dog on top of a bar of soap and taking a photo of it I would have thought you were crazy. I had no idea how people would respond to my “style” and I am so happy to be where I am today after just over a year in business. The reward of having my own business has been well worth the time I have put into it to make it “shine!”

Thank you so much for sharing a bit of your story with us. Your perspective is refreshing!

You can find more Prunella here:

shop: prunellasoap.etsy.com
twitter: @prunellasoap 

blog: www.cooljanedesign.com

facebook :: facebook.com/prunellasoap 

{{do you know a shop that shines? would you like to be considered for a feature? Please send submissions to allisa.jacobs [at] gmail [dot] com }}

Make It Do Monday - So Long....

2011-10-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

.....cable.

Yep. It's been a week since we said goodbye to cable. As part of my newly inspired mission to make do or do without, we decided to make the switch. Funny thing is, I don't really miss it at all. I didn't really watch a whole heckuva a lot anyway, but it sort of became a swampy stand-by I would turn to at the end of the day when I was exhausted &stressed and wanting to "relax." Our little guy had a few favorite shows- but after a quick 5-minute meltdown he's over it.

The other day my husband & I turned to each other & said, "what did we actually watch anyway?!" I had the usual line-up of design & cooking shows and of course I'd flip around the news wondering if something SUPER important happened in the world. I'm still watching some shows via the computer while I sew/create/stretch but I guess it's a little more intentional. Like catching up on the Project Runway finale. (yay Anya!) In fact, my productivity has gone through the roof & I don't go to bed feeling like the day is incomplete.

Anyhow, I guess the major withdrawal I prepared for was all for naught. I imagined we'd all be fussing over finales missed and grumbling about no DVR recordings. But, I guess you don't really miss things that weren't truly important to begin with!

I'm now looking for other things to give-up.....

So, tell me - what's something you've given up or done without that hasn't been so hard after all?

{image by A Wink of Illusion}

Today

2011-10-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

{image via dear inspiration}