Etsy Ireland

Etsy Ireland Craft Exchange

2012-01-28T17:55:00.000Z

Hello all, Clare here from Petal Avenue to introduce the Etsy Ireland Craft Exchange. This is a "pay it forward" kind of project, in which you give a free handmade gift and receive one in return. Anyone from the Etsy Ireland team can take part and you can give whatever manner of gift you wish, so long as it is handmade.

So here are the rules:

Sign up using the form below by Monday 6th February
I will pair you with another member of them team and send you an email with your partner's details by Wednesday 8th February
Create your gift and post it by Wednesday 29th February (ooh leap year!)
When you receive your gift, take some photos! I will arrange a post where we can share all the pictures

A few tips to help you get started:

If you enjoy making a variety of crafty items, choose something light for the gift to save money on postage
The gift you give does not have to be overly expensive, as we all know, a handmade gift is more special
Why not send an email to your partner to introduce yourself?

By pressing submit on this form you are committing to creating a handmade gift and posting it to your assigned partner. You will receive a crafty gift in return.
Note: the gift you receive may not necessarily be from the same person you have given your gift to.

If you have any questions you can email me at petalavenue@gmail.com or contact me through my blog or etsy shop.

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Getting To Know You #1

2012-01-27T14:37:00.009Z

"Getting to know you" is a way for us all to get to know better other Etsy teams and their work through cross team treasuries. I hope to post one each Friday.

As Australia Day was this week, I have picked the Australian Wandarrah team which gathers Australian Etsy sellers and buyers. The treasury is called "It is summer somewhere" because in Australia summer is here (a very warm one I'm told) and here in Ireland we are not even sure we will have one this year :)

Look at all the nice things both teams make:

Have a nice week-end and see you next week. In the meantime if you have any suggestion regarding the team or theme we should feature, please let me know.

2012-01-25T21:36:00.004Z

This is part of what goes into the info I send out to new members. It will need an update once all the question marked things are sorted...

THE OFFICIAL TEAM BLOG:- http://www.etsyireland.blogspot.com/

The blog acts as the shop window and the notice board for the team so it’s wise to check in on a regular basis for all the latest happenings.

The blog team are working really hard to create an interesting weekly structure and its already attracting lots of overseas visitors too.

The main blog items are written and uploaded by Caroline Kelly (CariDesign). We welcome all sorts of articles so if you have any, or write any new posts that you think might be interesting to other members of the team, please forward them to Caroline via her shop link. (Here it is again : CariDesign ).

The blog also carries weekly features, I have listed them below, with the people responsible for them :-

Mondays : Crafty Digest - Co-ordinator to be confirmed
Tuesdays: New Members – Ellen (Spiralgoddess)
Wednesdays: Team Treasuries – Fiona (Patchworkdelights)
Fridays: Getting To Know You - Raphaele (LaCreatureandYou)

Saturday: Tea and a Chat with – Felicia (Scrapzville)
Sunday: Eyes Open Ireland – Ellen (Spiralgoddess)

OTHER THINGS WE DO ON THE BLOG :-

Etsy Ireland /Meets Another Team/Treasury/Getting To Know You : – Raphaele (LaCreatureandYou)

This treasury involves items from our team and another team. The aim is to promote our team to new people, and people from the other team to our members.

Etsy Ireland Craft Exchange :- Clare (Petalavenue)

Clare organises swaps between team members. If you would like to participate please contact her direct.

Being active in the team both on the discussion pages on Etsy, and on the blog will really keep your exposure up, so please do get involved

.* * * * *

On the blog you'll also find a cool 'Etsy Ireland' button to grab for your own blog (if you have one) and a choice of Etsy Ireland business cards if you’d like to print them.

* * * * *

MORE USEFUL LINKS
Official Etsy Ireland Team Page – Everyone can post here: -
www.etsy.com/teams/5054/crafty-ireland-team

For a bit of banter, advice and team news (Etsy just launched this new format, and if you choose to join our team I’ll send you an invite.)

Our Flickr Group For Members Photos - www.flickr.com/groups/crafty-ireland

These photos also show up on the team blog.
Official Facebook Fan Page - www.facebook.com/etsyireland

To be one of our Facebook featured 'sellers of the day' please convo (co-ordinator to be confirmed) with a link to the item in your shop that you want featured, and all your relevant links, and she may pick you for a post on the fan page.

You don’t need a Facebook account to be featured. Please feel free to comment on the wall with any giveaways/competitions that you ever have going on, and add a positive review if you’ve ever had a positive experience dealing with one of the team.

Sue

2012-01-25T21:25:00.002Z

Sue Graham from amazingbeads says -

Hi Everyone,

We are having a few changes within the team.

First I would like to thank all of those team members who have being doing sterling voluntarily work for us, but who now want to move on.

Second. We have new members to the Admin Team, and new activities too.

Here is the new set up:

Leader - Still me folks!

Second Leader - Still Purls folks!

Purls will helping me as ' The Other Leader'.

The team is getting larger and larger (nearly 500 now, which is fantastic, and more people joining daily), and there is more and more work to be done to keep it running smoothly, so Purls will be there in the background, giving help to us all, and covering for me when I can't do stuff (which is often).

Blog Co-ordinator - The Blog is now being run by Caroline Kelly (CariDesign).

Caroline is responsible for the blog and everything that goes onto it.

We will be looking for loads of articles from you all, so that Caroline doesn't do all the writing herself.

New Members - Ellen (Spiralgoddess)

Ellen will still be doing the New Members write ups.

Here I have to give Ellen, and all the new members I've neglected, my sincere apologies. It's been so busy with everything that I haven't been able to get this info to Ellen for ages.

I promise that I will start again from 1st February once all these things are up and running.

Team Treasuries - Fiona (Patchworkdelights)

Eyes Open Ireland - Ellen (Spiralgoddess)

The Team Treasuries is working really well, but you know what? We need to get more photo's to Ellen for Eyes Open Ireland. Lets get working on that!

Tea and a Chat With - Felicia (Scrapzville)

Felicia has taken this over, so give her loads of help please and volunteer to have a chat with her.

* * * * *

There are some things that still have a question mark over them, as to the co-ordinators.
I am waiting for responses.

These are:

Crafty Digest
Facebook
Flickr
Pinterest - This is new, and we had someone to run it, but luckily for her, and sadly for us, she got a new job, and so will be too busy, so it's on hold just for the mo.

* * * * *

Then we have got two new sections. These are:

1) Getting To Know You - Raphaele (LaCreatureandYou)

This is a treasury that Raphaele will be co-ordinating once a week, to be posted on the blog on a Friday.

It will involve items from our own team and another Etsy team.

It will be great to link with other people/teams, and get to know them, and their circles willl be showing our items to new people, and vice versa.

2) Etsy Ireland Craft Exchange :- Clare (Petalavenue)

This will be an exchange group co-ordinated by Clare. It will be between any of our own team members that wish to participate. Exchanges will be well matched etc. Don't worry. Clare has it sorted, and will post more about it very soon.

* * * * *

Phew! A very long post.

I am going to post a brief, very brief, resume next, just so that you can all refer to it, when you need to contact someone.

You might want to copy and paste it to somewhere for easy reference.

Thank you again to everyone who has helped in the past, and a huge thank you, and even bigger welcome to all the new members of the Admin Team as of now.

* * * * *

And - one more thing - there are two peole who you never get to hear about, but who are working solidly in the background, and they are:

Robert (Dr K Soap Company), who does the categories list
and Maggie (The Bowmakers), who does the blog web design

* * * * *

Actually I'm going to do that resume in another post because otherwise it will all be too much.

Lets all get more involved right now.

Sue

Eyes Open Ireland

2012-01-22T17:57:00.001Z

Hello Crafty Team Members

Ellen here from The Spiral Goddess

with a call to arms!!

Ask not what your team can do for you,

but what can you do for your team!!

EYES OPEN IRELAND NEEDS YOU!!!!

This is a monthly spot on the Team Blog

Featuring Team Members Photo's of places that inspire you or your favorite hide away.

Maybe pictures you caught of a sunrise or stormy day that you love.

A thing you spotted that inspired you to make something.
A place a million miles away or in your back garden

or simply moments in time captured forever....

Share them with us and tell why you love them and how they inspire you.

In return we will post links to your Etsy shop, Blog, Facebook, Twitter etc.

So come on team show us what ya got!!!

Rialto Bridge Venice

Here's one of my favourite places, Venice Italy.

We went there last leap year for a wedding.

4 years later I still look back on these pictures whenever I need a little pick me up :o)

St Marks Square

Having read a story about Venice as a little girl I fell in love with images of the gondola filled canal's.

The idea of Masked Balls and Magical Walkways fascinated me.

Rush Hour Venice Style :o)

How I wished I could go there....

Especially for Valentines Day

And eventually I did!!

Venice did not disappoint

Doorways to Secrets on Every Street

It was as Magical as I had imagined and for me it's all about The Magic :o)

I bought some blank mask's that would be worn to the famous masked ball's and took them home and tried to paint them....... lol!!

Lets just say they looked better in my imagination.

But I never looked back I came home all inspired and started creating again

and now here I am with a little shop and writing for this blog.

♪♫♫♪ Just One Cornetto ♪♫♪♫

In the past the posts were all about Ireland
but we have members all over the globe and I think we would all enjoy seeing what International Irish Eyes are seeing all over the world :o)

So come on team start sending me your pics and your stories.
I'm starting this off again as a monthly piece but if there's enough interest it could go weekly.
As you can see from my pictures you don't have to be a fantastic photographer
just tell us why you love the pictures you love!!

Please contact me through my Etsy shop
Or send your Pics and stories to me at my email thespiralgoddess@gmail.com

Till Next Time
♥

Treasury Wednesday Week 2

2012-01-18T09:50:00.000Z

Happy Wednesday everyone.

Hello from a damp Dublin hopefully it will clear up as the day goes on.

It'll be a short post today as we didn't have that many treasuries posted on to the link, thank you to those who did post their links up and made team treasuries.

If you have never made a treasury why not try making one and let me know that you have by posting it in the current thread. They are fun and addictive!

One more thing hoping to resurrect the Treasury Challenge that the guys had running maybe a year or so ago, it was great fun so if you have any themes to suggest for next week then post them on the current thread. Thank you.

I apologise to Sarah from Mouflon as I omitted her treasury last week, sorry Sarah but here it is this week.

A Crafty New Year!

The Darker Side of Love by Annemarie from ByAmor

Cinnamon by Fiore of FioreJewelry

A lovely treaury from MatthewandSarah of Traban entitled Best of Irish

Last but not least we have Hint of an Irish Spring curated by Caroline from CariDesign

Thank you everyone for taking the time to make treasuries and I look forward to seeing what you come up with for next, also don't forget hope to start a Treasury Challenge next week too, so keep posted!

Fi

Opportunities to sell your art/crafts in new shops

2012-01-16T22:10:00.003Z

Hi there! I thought I'd share with you the latest shops that I successfully sell my art/craft in.

First Fondelifair shop in Ennistymon. It's a community run shop where participants pay monthly rent (40-50 euros depending on each particular month) and 100% of your sales go back to you with no commission taken. Ennistymon shop opened in mid November and had some nice sales during Christmas time and is sure to be a successful project especially once the tourist season kicks in.If you want to join or learn more - check out this page - ennistymon.fondelifair.com/

And another wonderful shop with a new concept of "monthly shelf fee - no commission" - Truly gifted in Mallow. I've been getting regular sales there from the day it's opened! You can find more information on Truly gifted facebook page - www.facebook.com/pages/Truly-Gifted-Handmade-Irish-Craft-Gallery/ or trulygifted.ie

Tanya Bond from http://tanyabond.etsy.com.

Happy New Year and the first years Treasury Spot

2012-01-10T20:35:00.000Z

Happy New Year everyone! Wishing you health and happiness for 2012.

Apologies for my absence towards the end of the year but December was frankly a wash out healthwise. But I am back and ready (unless any one else wants the job?!)

Anybody interested in participating in a treasury competition? Suggestions ideas welcome, just email me.

So here we are some beautiful treasuries, please like and comment!

Caroline from CariDesign put together this pretty treasury called "I feel pretty, Irish"

Hazel from HazelDonnelly has curated "My Irish Valentine"

The next treasury is called "Snow White", thank you Fiore (FioreJewelry)

Anne Marie (ByAmor) but together a little mix this time entitled New Years Resolution

That's it folks, don't forget to participate with the team in any little way you can, even if it's hearting someone's item, treasury, sharing or commenting!

Thanks again.

Fi

People Wanted For The Etsy Ireland Team

2012-01-08T22:04:00.002Z

Hi Everyone,

We need help on the team.

Firstly,we need someone to be responsible for the main blog. It's fine if other people are blogging, you just need to check on everything. However, if no-one is blogging, you will need to write posts,even if they are short, but interesting please. Contact me for more details please.

Secondly, We need someone to take over the 'Tea And a Chat With' post. Contact me for more more details.

Thirdly, I think it would be good to have a person to regularly make treasuries involving Other Teams AND Etsy Ireland Team. A sort friendship thing, that will get publicity for us and them. Contact me please.

Lastly, I would like for us to set up a Pinterest Site just for us.

OK. I know that you are all really busy. We are all really busy. It's 4 positions, and we have had over 100 new members since I took over. There are 400 and something of us in the team so there MUST be 4 of you out there who want to help your Etsy Ireland Community. So you 4, whoever you are.. please get in touch with me at : sueatkilmeedy@eircom.net

You will love yourselves, and we will love YOU for it.
Sue

To Market To Market. Christ Church Cathedral Trad Fest.

2012-01-08T14:15:00.008Z

Hi Anne-Marie here wishing you all a Happy New Year! I bring news of an interesting market opportunity this month. Christ Church Cathedral Trad Fest Market 2012 takes place on January 27th and 28th in the heart of Dublin and sounds like a great opportunity for crafters as well as a fun day out.

'After the phenomenal success of last year’s performances by Altan and Clannad, Christ Church Cathedral is again playing the role of headline venue in the Temple Bar Trad Fest. To coincide with performances in the cathedral by iconic band, The Dubliners, on the 27th and 28th January, the cathedral has organised a series of special events including a craft market, story-telling, genealogy, fiddle-making workshops, hot food stalls and even The City Farm in the grounds!

Hot on the heels of the successful Christmas Market, the market will take place in the atmospheric 12th century crypt on Saturday 28th January from 11am-4pm. 12 stalls will be available to rent at a cost of €50 each. Each stall holder will be provided with a 6ft x 2.5ft trestle table and two chairs. The crypt is warm, comfortable and welcoming, and admission will be free to the market!

For more information or to make a provisional booking:
Call: Lesley-Anne on 01 677 8099
Email: lesley-anne@cccdub.ie.'

New to Craft markets? These previous posts by team members may be of use:
How to Market Stalls part 1
How to Market Stalls part 2
Jewellery Display

Happy New Year

2012-01-02T15:17:00.000Z

Its been a while since I have tapped out a post on my laptop for the Etsy Ireland Blog. Well, its a New Year and the time has come to say hello again...... So, Hello Again.......

I am not one to make New Year Resolutions, I used to be but I gave that up a long time ago. So many good intentions never fulfilled...... So, what to do instead!!!!

I have come across 2 positive alternatives while catching up on my reading over the last week which I have embraced for 2012.

Firstly, before saying goodbye to 2011 I sat yesterday and wrote down all of the things I achieved during the year and I must say I was surprised at how long the list was. It included all of my Etsy events, people I met, places I went to, new skills (I tried a bit of weaving for the first time), as well lessons learned from mistakes I made, etc. etc. etc.

Secondly, going forward into the new year I listed a number of new things I would like to try, places to go to, etc a type of bucket list. I came up with 52, one for each week of the year. Now I will look forward to planning them but wont be too discouraged if I dont get all of them ticked off the list before the bells ring out for 2013 as they can be added to the following year.

So, why dont you try to do the same - list what you have achieved and gather together what you would like 2012 to bring you.

I wish you all the best of New Years. May the Crafting Fairies visit you often and bring you creativity and sales to make this a positive year to remember.

Cheers
Mo
www.huggleknits.etsy.com

Some Great Markets Coming Up This Weekend!

2011-12-06T18:27:00.000Z

Hi Everyone! Angela here from artysmarty I used to be the Dublin rep. and it's a while since I've posted but I just wanted to let you know about a few markets that are happening this weekend.

There are a bunch of Irish Designers/Makers who are taking part in a pop up shop in Ranelagh, starts on Saturday and there is gonna be a launch with mince pies and everything! Few more details in the article in the Irish Times this weekend.

Another great event coming up this weekend is the Dublin Flea and Block T Christmas market which is on both Saturday and Sunday. It's down in Smithfield and yours truly will be there! Lots of bits for people for Christmas presents and I'll even gift wrap them for you too. Hope you pop down to either of them!

Fresh 5 on Friday - Gifts for Her

2011-12-02T12:44:00.008Z

1. Tiny Sparrow Stud Earrings from lilabelledesign

2. Silk Scarf from dragonfly1760

3. Blue Crochet Wrist Warmers from SelkieCrochet

4. Swarovski Pearl Stud Earrings from JewelleryByMarielle

5. Tribal Batik Handmade Bead and Pewter Bracelet from amazingbeads

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Wednesday Treasury Spot #3

2011-11-22T19:45:00.000Z

Hello hello and welcome to Wednesday Treasury Spot #3

Thank you once again to all of you who participated. For those of you who have never done a treasury go on give it a go, once you start....

Ok so down to business:

We have a lovely treasury curated by the Jewellery Studio entitled "A Green and White Ireland"

Next another gorgeous entry from Fiore from FioreJewelry called "In Nor Particular Order"

The next treasury was curated by Hazel from HazelDonnelly which she named "Yum". Thank you Hazel lovely entry.

Now a first for one of the CraftyIrelandTeam members which is called "Winged Wonders" by Bottleheads, well done!!

I did one too, through my sister shop Threads2000, called "Red and White"

We have this gorgeous treasury curated by Irina from Kaftan Sarafan entitled "Shop Local in Ireland"

And the last wonderful treasury for this weeks roundup is aptly entitled "Rhapsody in Blue" by PuffinPatchwork.

Thank you everyone for all your gorgeous, festive, inspiring treasuries for this week, please keep up the momentum!

Wednesday Treasury Spot #2

2011-11-16T10:55:00.002Z

Hi Ladies and Gents and welcome to week 2 of our Wednesday Treasury Spot.

I am pleased to say that we had another week of lovely treasuries of Etsy Ireland Team Members.

If you are unsure how to make a treasury, please check it out here.

A couple of things I would like to draw to your attention:

Please get involved in your team, your team is only as good as its members, so the more participation the more successful it will be.

Please please share team treasuries, on Facebook, Twitter and so, comment, heart and leave comments. Everyone likes encouragement!

Also if you are making a treasury for this weekly spot, please can you post it in the current thread that I set up each Weds so it's easier for me to find. Thank you :)

So let's start shall we?

In no particular order we have first of all-

Purple Ice by AnneMarie of byAmor

A Romantic Wander before Dinner by Carrie from CherryBlossomTattoo

All Things Bright and Beautiful by Hazel Donnelly of HazelDonnelly

Great title "Next Stop Christmas" by Sarah from Mouflon

"Red" by Fiore of Fiorejewelry

Silver Sparkle by me (PatchworkDelights)

Gold and Purple by MyWeddingFavours

Aren't they all wonderful?

There's more!

Irish Gifts for Men by PuffinPatchwork - great idea!

Autumn Hibernation by the lovely Brigitte from PurlsofColour

Accessorize all Areas by SailmakersDaughter

That's it for this weeks everyone, apologies if I missed any one. Please let me know and I will include you in next week's post.

Please ensure you tag your treasury with CRAFTYIRELANDTEAM so that I can find it.

This post is featurin treasuries that only include Etsy Ireland Team members.

Fresh 5 on Friday - Christmas Decorations

2011-11-11T17:20:00.006Z

Today's Fresh 5 comes from Nicola of NicsGifts. She brings us a lovely selection of Holiday Ornaments from the very crafty Etsy Ireland Team!

1. FineFibre - Wishing well Fairies turquoise ornament
www.etsy.com/listing/66051227/wishing-well-fairies-turquoise-ornament?re...

2. PuffinPatchwork - Christmas owl ornaments. Set of 3. Free Shipping.
www.etsy.com/listing/85099614/christmas-owl-ornaments-set-of-3-free?ref=...

3.byAMOR - Beach Glass & Copper Christmas Ornament. Irish Tree Decoration or Pendant
www.etsy.com/listing/85653935/beach-glass-copper-christmas-ornament?ref=...

4. ooakie - ON SALE: Antique 6. Silver Luxury Christmas WINE GLASS CHARMS, ooak.ie, Set of 6
www.etsy.com/listing/33300897/on-sale-antique-6-silver-luxury?ref=v1_oth...

5. FEANOR1 - Christmas wreath white
www.etsy.com/listing/64050552/christmas-wreath-white

If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Wednesday Treasury Spot #1

2011-11-08T21:47:00.002Z

Hello All

Well this is my first Wednesday Treasury slot and I have to say a big THANK YOU to all of you who have created and curated treasuries this week, I have to say there was a good team effort made. Please DO NOT STOP!

Before I show you all the gorgeous treasuries, don't forget to check out any team treasuries and heart them and share and leave a comment!

Well following the thread I started earlier this week I will start according to the order that the treasuries came in.

Consequently I am starting with one that I made called CraftyIrelandTeam Suppliers.

Created by PatchworkDelights

Fiore from FioreJewelry has made Shop Local: Gift Guide from Ireland

FioreJewelry

Next up we have a lovely sunny treasury called Yellow Mellow Memories of Summer created by the lovely Mo from Huggleknits

Huggleknits

Chiara from Makissima made this wonderful Christmassy themed Treasury called apptly Meet me under the Mistletoe

Makissima

Keep reading guys there are more! Great isn't it?
Annemarie from byAmor created this autumnal Turn Up The Heat

byAmor

Mary from Queen of Cuffs has created a striking Christmassy Treasury called Red Hot Irish Gifts

QueenofCuffs

Mary created another colourful Treasury called Better than Chocolate...

QueenofCuffs

Hazel from HazelDonnelly created a cool treasury called Frosty Morning

HazelDonnelly

I also did a search of other Craftyirelandteam treasuries and found these, sorry I only went back a couple of days as 1) I have a bad cold and 2) er it's 22.41 on Tuesday night!

Carrie from CherryBlossomTattoo and her new shop SewCherryBlossom created a treasury called Treasury#1 - round and round, nearly got dizzy there Carrie!

SewCherryBlossom

Well that's it for this Wednesday!

Thank you all for your input and you all made lovely treasuries I am sure you will agree.

If you have never made a treasury before why not give it a go, it's very easy and it's great fun you can create whatever you like!!!

If you make a team treasury please post a link to it on the current Blog Team Treasury Thread here (for this coming week. Please always tag your treasury and include craftyirelandteam so that it can be easily found in case you forget to add it to the team thread. Go here on how to make a treasury!

Thanks again! See you next week!

Fi

New Treasury Curator

2011-11-05T23:21:00.004Z

Fabric Covered Bookmark, Cat and Mouse
by PatchworkDelights

We are really delighted to announce that as from this coming Wednesday, 9 November, we will have our 'Wednesday Treasury Spot' back on the Blog page.

It will be organised every week by the lovely Fiona of PatchworkDelights who has just opened her new Etsy shop Threads2000. Give her a big welcome please... and watch out for her first Treasury Report on Wednesday.

Don't forget to 'favourite' the team treasuries too, like them on Facebook, and retweet them, because we want to get our treasuries on the Etsy Front Page, and further our team to being the best.

Sue and Purls

Fresh 5 on Friday - Let it Rain

2011-10-28T09:00:00.001+01:00

1. Silver Clouds Post Earrings Wire Wrapped - Silver Lining from FioreJewellery

2. Little white cloud with raindrops wool felt brooch - April Showers from ShinyJane

3. Blue Sky, Ceramic Brooch, Handmade in Ireland from karoart

4. Rain Cloud of Love 16mm Brass Illustrated Stud Earrings from designbirdie

5. Slea head, Kerry photographic print from michael prior

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Crafty News Desk

2011-10-17T15:28:00.011+01:00

Deepavali (Diwali) Market in Little India Arcade, Singapore

Greetings from lovely Singapore! I've had a great day of shopping here, exploring the special Deepavali market and the Little India Arcade, and getting lost in the textiles and trimmings heaven that is Arab Street! My suitcase is now rather full!! (There may be more about my shopping adventure in Singapore in another post...stay tuned!)

Meanwhile, here's the weekly update of upcoming crafty events back home in Ireland:

Marlay Craft Fair is on Friday 25th November (6-9pm), Saturday 26th November (10-5pm) and Sunday 27th November (10-5pm) in Rathfarnham, Dublin.
Details and application forms for stalls on the website HERE.

Stallholders wanted for a Craft Fair in Athy, Co Kildare on Saturday 10th December.
Mount St. Mary’s Resource Centre located behind Perry’s supermarket, Athy will be holding a craft fair on the Saturday 10th December and are currently looking for potential stallholders to sell their crafts and produce. The fair will be held inside and tables are provided.
A pitch costs €25 and this money will go directly to the centre which runs a number of activities that are available to the local community.
For more information or to book a stall contact Bernie on 087 203 2487 or Nicky on 086 807 6365

Two Christmas Fairs in Wicklow in December:
Christmas at Killruddery, Killruddery House (The Orangery)Bray, Co. Wicklow. 100% Artisan Crafts & Food stalls from County Wicklow. All crafts will be represented. Fri, Sat & Sun - 17th, 18th & 20th November. 26 stalls in total with 8 stalls left. Price between €140-165 per space for the whole weekend! (+table hire if needed - €10)]
Christmas at The Gaol (Santa will be returning again this year!)Wicklow Gaol, Wicklow Town, Co. Wicklow. Mostly Artisan Crafts & Food stalls (or unusual and not found on the high street items)and mostly from County Wicklow and surrounding counties.
Fri, Sat & Sun - 2nd, 3rd & 4th December
Fri, Sat & Sun - 9th, 10th & 11th December
Fri, Sat & Sun - 16th, 17th & 18th December.
30 stalls in the hall of the Gaol decorated in Christmas Theme in keeping with old style Christmas Santa Experience. Price between €140-165 per space for the whole weekend! (+table hire if needed - €10)
Contact: Sinead Quinn, CFL Events, 0872707496, cfleventsww@gmail.com

Swoop.ie - A Haven For All Things Handmade in Ireland
Calling all Crafters/Designer/Makers.... Fantastic new site coming online for selling Irish Handcrafted Products and Design. www.swoop.ie
A Haven for all things Handmade in Ireland! Contact Tanya@swoop.ie for further details!

I'm hoping over to Hong Kong tomorrow on a work trip for the next week, so next time I check in for the crafty news I'll be just back and I hope you will forgive me if I am a little jet-lagged!! If anyone has any crafty news that would be of interest to our team members, please convo me through my Etsy shop TheBlueSylph.etsy.com before next Monday.

Inspirational Visit, Festival of Lights Dublin.

2011-10-12T01:00:00.001+01:00

Crocheted Lantern by HeliCreations

Hi there Anne-Marie of Handmade by Amo'r here with an invite to team members to another 'Cultural Visit'. A few team members are getting together on Oct 22nd to attend Diwali, Festival of Lights at Dublin's RDS. Tickets (€11.50 inc booking fee) are available via Ticket Master. Any team members who can make it are welcome to join us.

Details can be found on this private team thread, where you can post your interest/arrange where to meet.

Flourite, Coco Heishi and Indian Silver Necklace by Mouflon

The festival promises to be a lively and colourful event with Indian dance, music, food and floral art. The highlight will be a firework display. It's guaranteed to get our imaginations going while giving us an insight into a diverse and fascinating culture.

Party Bunting by Grace and Favour

Before the summer, a few of us got together to visit the National Museum of Decorative Arts. The collection of jewellery and fashions fired our imaginations, but the chat over coffee afterwards was equally inspiring. If you can't make it to Dublin for the festival, perhaps it will spur some of you around the country to organise similar 'go-tos' in your own locality...(ah sure, any excuse for a crafty natter.....)

Crafty News Desk

2011-10-10T23:44:00.007+01:00

It's nearly time to get out your winter coat!! This lovely coat is made by Spiral Gypsy Creations.

Anne-Marie from byAMOR told me that a few team members are getting together for another 'Inspirational Day Out' to attend the Festival of Light in the RDS on 22nd October. If anyone is interested in joining in, there's more details HERE.

The Belfast Creative Crafts Show is on from 13 - 15 October 2011 in The Kings Hall, Belfast. This show covers all aspects of quality stitchcraft including cross stitch, sewing, card making, embroidery, knitting, patchwork, quilting, scrapbooking, ribboncraft, papercraft, stamping, beading, painting, dressmaking, tapestry, decoupage, crochet and many more popular stitch and creative crafts. More details HERE.

Here are some more upcoming craft markets (including Christmas fairs) which may be of interest to team members looking to sell their wares:

The Affordable Gift Fair - Sunday 20th November 2011 - 10am - 5pm - Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

Weekly craft fair at old barn market Carlingford 12-6pm
special Christmas fair 26th and 27th November.
Contact in south Ireland Eileen 087 2030301
or in northern Ireland Frances 0799 9849607

St Davids School, Greystones, Co Wicklow - Christmas Fair - Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th December 2011

More local craft fairs around the country:

DERRY JOURNAL GIFT & CRAFT FAIR
13 November 2011: Everglades Hotel, Derry

AN TAISCE CRAFT FAIR
20 November 2011: Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

PEACOG CRAFT FAIR
27 November 2011: Gortahork, Co. Donegal

LETTERKENNY CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR
27 November 2011: Radisson Blue Hotel, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR
27 November 2011: Ballinrobe Community School, Co. Mayo

And don't forget the Buttons and Bows Halloween Fancy Dress Market - 23rd October 2011 - Crumlin Road, Dublin 12. Sounds like fun!!

If anyone has any crafty news that would be of interest to our team members, please convo me through my Etsy shop TheBlueSylph.etsy.com before next Monday.

Next week's Crafty News will be brought to you from... Singapore!!! I'll be hoping to pick up some gorgeous fabrics in Arab Street for making lovely things like tribal belly dance costumes. I'll let you know how I get on, so watch this space next Monday!!
Natalie

Fresh 5 on Friday - Halloween Finds

2011-10-07T13:11:00.005+01:00

Today's Fresh 5 on Friday is brought to us by Nicola of NicsGifts.

I. From StainedGlassFayre - Wispy Orange Stained Glass Halloween Pumpkin Suncatcher

2. From handmadebysima - Halloween Pumpkins Napkins (set of 4) Hand Printed Linen

3. From balanced - Amber Lampwork Glass, Swarovski, Copper - Earrings - 'Superstition'

4. from LittleSnippets - Halloween Lace Bats

5. From Spiralgodess - 2 Vampire Cuff Bracelets Vampire Bite Me / Carpe Nocturne ( Sieze the Night )Hand Stamped

If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Crafty News Desk

2011-10-03T22:56:00.001+01:00

Hi Everyone!

Just a few tidbits of crafty news this week. Let me know if I am missing something important!

Craft Markets of Ireland Meet Up
Wednesday, October 5 · 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Exchange Dublin, corner of Exchange St. Upper and Essex St. West.
Craft stall holders and Market organisers are all invited and welcome to this Meet up. We are going to meet, chat and discuss topics relevant to how Craft Markets happen and work in Ireland at the moment. Whether you've been doing this for years or are a newcomer your thoughts are all welcome.The agenda will be decided on the day by those taking part. Come and meet other crafters, network and make friends.
This is a Meet up of the members of the Facebook group "Craft Markets of Ireland: Becoming Selective", that is open to all involved in craft markets. Crafters and Market Organisers are welcome to join the group, just look us up and ask to join. The group's aims include discussion and shared learning about how to make craft markets better. This is an open event, please pass on the invite to interested friends. If you cannot make it for the very start don't worry - come along when you can.
To find Exchange Dublin Collective Arts Centre on Google Maps click this LINK.

For anyone who is on Facebook, team member LolaDee Handmade is running a competition! You could win a custom zipper hair clip / brooch and matching pair of earrings. Details on the Facebook page here:
www.facebook.com/loladeehandmade

Buttons and Bows Market are will be holding a special Fancy Dress Halloween market on 23rd October in the Iveagh Grounds on the Crumlin Road, Dublin 12. Stalls will include jewellery, cards, candles, Face painting and crafts for the children. Stalls will cost €25. For further information on taking a stall please email buttonsandbowscraftmarket@hotmail.com

That's all from me for this week. If you have some crafty news please email me at thebluesylph@gmail.com or send me a convo through my Etsy shop The Blue Sylph before next Monday!

Natalie

Crafty News Desk

2011-09-26T22:20:00.013+01:00

Hmm, it's not easy to get your work done when your cats seem to think your box of crafty scraps is their new bed when they're feeling poorly...

Hi Everyone! I'm Natalie aka The Blue Sylph and I am your new Crafty News Reporter! Those are my cats, but since that photo I have managed to keep them out of my crafty supplies, except for the bag of feathers they got hold of...

Apologies for the lack of Crafty News during the last few weeks, but I am here to report now! Thanks to Mo's aka Huggleknits hard work as my predecessor I have big shoes to fill, so here goes...

Crafts people wanted for a new craft shop in Mallow Co. Cork called Truly Gifted. They only sell handmade Irish goods and will run workshops for adults and children alike.
They are also looking for people to give workshops in their craft as well.
For more information please contact Majella on 083 4123737 or e-mail info@trulygifted.ie or click HERE.

Wicklow Christmas Gift and Craft Fair Sunday, 27th November 2011 now taking bookings for stalls. Information HERE.

Crafters Ireland (craft & food fairs) have upcoming Halloween & Christmas fairs/events. Check out their website for details HERE.

If you are looking for an outlet to sell your work, there are a few spaces available in Design Shed Ireland. They showcase up to 14 artists and crafts people every week in Blackrock. They have a purpose built shop which has 5 wall spaces and 9 tables spaces.
So if you hand make jewelry, are a potter, weave baskets, make candles, are an artist or photographer, or even a wood turner this could be for you. And the beauty of it all is you don’t even have to be there and they advertise you all week on our website blog facebook and twitter!
With only 12 weekends left until Christmas and spaces filling up fast now is the time to get your space secured in time for the Christmas market.
The Market opens every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30 to 5.30, every Bank holiday Monday and the week building up to Christmas.
To get involved simply send a few sample images of your work to designshedireland@gmail.com for more information on how it all works.
Check out our website to view who is in the shop and see the shop layout. www.designshedireland.com

THE CREATIVE COLLECTION - Craft Fair at The Mall, 1st Floor GOREY SHOPPING CENTRES Sat 8th Oct 10am-6pm More than 24 stands of high standard crafts. This event is the first of three, the other two are 12th Nov. and 10th Dec. The venue is a wonderful bright airy space. It's very accessible from the main shopping area by lift and lift from free car park too, also on foot from Gorey Main Street-through the Civic Centre and its opposite the library. All enquiries to carolfcarr@yahoo.co.uk Phone 0876263463

Don't forget it's still the Year of Craft, so check out all the events on the website:
www.craftinireland.com

An interesting upcoming event is in Athlone this weekend, Great Big Craft Extravaganza
3 Days of Shopping, Classes and Demos - Crafts include cardmaking, jewellery, scrapbooking, felting, photography and more. Check out their blog HERE.
And there's more in this post HERE.

That's all from me for this week. If you have any other crafty news please add it in a comment here, or convo me through my Etsy shop The Blue Sylph.
Natalie

Fresh 5 on Friday - White House

2011-09-23T12:46:00.009+01:00

Some lovely handmade and vintage home decor items from the Etsy Ireland Team

1. Houses Woodblock Vintage Mounted 6x6 Print from RuggedMountain

2. White Cream Aran Hand Knit Mug Warmer from LittleButtonsAndBows

3. Vintage White Oval Porcelain Dish with Golden Bamboo Leaves from kaftansarafan

4. Time Piece crocheted wall clock white from HeliCreations

5. Golden Delicious three tier white, gold and lemon cake stand from AuntyApplesReFinery

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Fresh 5 on Friday - Wedding Finds

2011-09-16T13:41:00.008+01:00

[click to enlarge]

Today's Fresh 5 on Friday is brought to us by Nicola of NicsGifts.
She has collected some lovely finds for a wonderful, handmade touch to your wedding!

1. from bonzie - Bonzie Couture Silk Bridal Cape

2. from homespunireland - Custom Vintage Wedding Ring Pillow

3. from QueenofCuffs - Old New Borrowed Blue Bride Pendant Charm

4. from WhateverGetsYouTrue - Ivory Hair Piece with Pearls

5. from aroominthecottage - Vintage style TEA DYED LACE wedding bunting

If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Selling Your Work To The Right Person in The Right Place

2011-09-15T14:10:00.003+01:00

All of us a crafters would like to know how to sell more of our stuff. We all try hard selling online on etsy, our websites, on facebook and through markets and shops. Recently I've come across a few opportunities that has opened my eyes when it comes to selling my work. I have a wide range of products that I sell at a weekly market, The Milk Market in Limerick City. Even though it has a great footfall and I've tried really hard trying to brand and display my work properly, sometimes I worry that the right type of person isn't seeing my products. For example I might have a cool geeky badge, but because it looks like a girly craft stall a male hipster is not going to stop at my stall. So I lose a sale.

I started thinking more about what type of person would buy each of my items, and then trying to think about where that person shops. I wanted to bring my work directly to the right person, place it under their nose, rather then wait for them to come to me. Here are a few examples of the products that I'm now selling in a different way.

I make an alphabet magnet set for children, they are all my own illustrations, and obviously all handmade. So the kind of person I'm aiming at is probably someone looking to give this as a gift. At a €20 price tag it's not something you pick up on a whim. Also because of the price I'm not aiming towards the Pennys cheap and cheerful buyer. My friend Claire runs Ecobrats an eco friendly business that caters towards a mother and baby's needs. The type of people who buy from her are willing to pay a little bit more for a higher quality product, her customers think about the materials used, and the work that goes into making something. Exactly the type of person who will pay a few quid extra for handmade. On top of the obvious fact that if they are at a baby stall they will be more open to buying baby products. We work together at the market and she kindly suggested to me that she could sell some of my sets, and within an hour she sold a box. Also over the next couple of weeks I will be making christening and new baby cards for her to sell at the stall. She gets a lot of people asking for them. It's better to have them there, rather than if she sent them to my stall they might get distracted by something and forget to come over to me.

About a year ago I invested in a badge maker to make my own pocket mirrors as I was frustrated with ordering them from the US. In the past year it's really helped to expand my business. One thing that I've been really pushing lately is hen party orders. If someone would have said to me this time last year that hen parties would become my bread and butter I never would have believed them. Part of what has helped spread the word was contacting bridal and hen party websites and facebook pages directly. Rather that hoping that prospective brides would find me I went out and hunted them down myself. It was free and very easy, I just sent off a bunch of emails. If websites got back to me and asked me to pay a fee for advertising I politely declined; there are plenty of bridal blogs looking for things to write about that will do it for free instead.

There is a a vinyl stall at the market I sell at. I approached the stallholder a few weeks ago to see if he would mind me putting a board of rock and pop badges at his stall. We go 50/50 on the sales so both of us are happy. Since putting out this board a record shop has approached me about doing a similar deal with them. It was simple idea that grew legs under it-music people go to record stalls, music people love badges-simple! (Note: I know I'm breaking copywrite laws with these, but I figure Bono won't mind about a little stall in Limerick making a few quid, I won't be selling them online, and won't stock anywhere else with them).

Facebook is an amazing marketing tool. It was Pride week in Limerick last week, I was very disorganised and only made up a batch of Pride designs the day before the parade. But I snapped a few pictures, uploaded them to facebook, and then sent a link of the album directly to the organisers of Limerick Pride, LGBT, and a few others. I had quite a few customer who came to my stall the next day to specifically buy them. After I finished work I pinned all my badges to my canvas bag, walked down to the after party and sold them to people on the street. I figured I'd make a few extra quid on my walk home! Again I went directly to the person who I knew would buy my stuff, rather than wait for them to stumble upon me.

Try to think about what you make, who would buy it, where that person normally shops, and how to get your products into that place. It's all about the right context. Has anyone else had experience with this kind of thing? I love to hear your feedback..

Fab 5 on Friday - Olive

2011-09-09T12:12:00.005+01:00

[click to enlarge]

1. Skinny Scarf in Organic Cotton and Vintage Silk from ProjectSarafan

2. OOAK Green Statement Ring from blathdesigns

3. Lime Pinstripes Purse/Wallet from joanyg

4. Green dandelion original oil pastel from tanyabond

5. Connemara Marble Salt and Pepper Set from HennessyandByrne

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Where Do People Create?

2011-09-04T22:14:00.000+01:00

'Where People Create Blog' was started in January 2010, I had to take the rest of the year off college due to been too sick to attend and needed something to maintain my sanity. I have an obsession with home magazines and studio spaces, and love the 'Where Women Create' Books. But I decided I wanted to see more, more studios, more craft spaces.

I wanted to see more natural spaces one's that weren't polished and tidied to an inch of life as well as the tidied ones, I wanted to see the tiny spaces and the large attic conversions to the shed in the garden. I wanted to show it doesn't matter how good, how big, or how great your space is, you can create regardless and hope that this blog will give people the encouragement to set up a corner or a shed or whatever it may be and start creating and not hold back due to lack of space. I also wanted it to be a blog that both women and men could feature in unlike the Where Women Create Series. And so Where People Create was born.

The blog consists of showing numerous photos or videos or both of the space. Then to give the viewer an idea of the space, and its uses, and how it functions I decided that ten questions should be asked to each artist/crafter. Also, at the end of the feature I will usually try to post a photo of the persons work.

What kind of Art/Crafts do you do?

Where do you do your art/crafts?

How do you keep all your supplies organised?

How do you keep yourself motivated to keep your space tidy?

Any tips for how to keep art spaces tidy or organised?

Do you get stressed out when your space gets in a mess?

If you could have your dream space tomorrow what would it look like?

Is there any craft you would love to do but cant due to limitations of your art space?

What is the next big thing on your wish list for your art space?

Is there a website for people to see or buy your art/crafts?

I am always looking for spaces to be featured, all that you have to do is drop me a line at: amgartstudios@gmail.com. Artists and crafters from all around the globe have been featured, but would love to see more of my fellow Etsy Ireland team members.

Susan Moloney's Art Studio Susan Moloney's Facebook Page

Remember, it doesn't have to be perfect, we like seeing messy studios remember, or how about taking one messy and one clean its up to you. You don't even need photos if videoing is your thing than send us in a video.

Balanced Crafts Studio Feature. Balanced Crafts on Facebook.

I guess the real reason I set up 'Where People Create' was due to the fact that for a long time I didn't do art, I thought I hadn't the space for it, and so for a good number of years my art lay dormant. But around 2003 after I moved to the UK and had a room that had a large dining room table that wasn't been used, and I jumped at the chance of getting dug into my art.

My messy dining room table in UK

When I moved back to Ireland I made sure I had a room to work in, it was tiny but it was space. But I will always regret not getting around to it sooner, and so I hope my blog encourages someone to get back to their art or start art and crafts, and not to worry about where they do it, its how and why you do it that matters!

Missy Bonkers Studio Missy Bonkers Website

Where People Create also have a Facebook Page where we try to post photos of studios or studio ideas daily. And to those of you who have been already featured a BIG thank you again for helping to keep the blog going.

And finally thanks to everyone for taking the time to read this and I hope you come visit Where People Create sometime, or perhaps consider being featured. Thank you!

Ann

Fresh 5 on Friday - Back to School

2011-09-02T11:13:00.006+01:00

Today's Fresh Friday picks were chosen by Nicola of NicsGifts. She's getting us ready to go Back to School with some lovely handmade offerings from the Etsy Ireland Team!

1.
from nicedaydesigns - A-Z Children's Magnet Alphabet Set 26 Pieces

2.
from LoftFullOfGoodies - ABC Magnetic Alphabets (52 pieces)

3.
from designbirdie - party invitation and bunting pack

4.
from dottyspotsdesign - pencil case / zip purse / make up bag in orange flowers oilcloth

5.
from SnagBreac - Planets of the Solar System Felt making Kit

If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

- Rach
balanced

Crafty Opportunity!

2011-09-01T15:41:00.001+01:00

Hi Everybody!Our administrator Sue received an email a couple of days ago inviting us to a craft event in Athlone. I have posted the message below. If anyone is interested, please contact Sue directly at her Etsy shop

---

I got your contact through the Etsy Ireland Blog. We are organising a huge craft event in Athlone at the end of September and would like to invite Etsy Ireland.

If you could promote the event to your members, and on your blog, in return we would be happy to give you a table to promote Etsy Ireland. The Great Big Craft Extravaganza is in its 3rd year now and is very well attended by crafters from all over the country. It is a mix of shopping, demos and classes.
Visit greatbigcraftextravaganza.wordpress.com/

--

Scam Alert!

2011-09-01T15:36:00.000+01:00

Hello Everybody,

While we all know how wonderful it is to be able to connect with like minded people on the net - we should always be aware that as many good opportunities it presents us with, we have to be aware of the traps laid out for the unsuspecting.

One of our members have already received three of the messages posted below. Please be extremely wary of any messages that sound like the email below. These have already been reported to Etsy. I have also reported this gmail address to Google for scamming and spam.

Here is Google's Security Center which is a great resource if you ever find yourself in doubt. In particular searching the user forums for the message you received will typically reveal it as a known scam.

Stay safe! And below is the suspect message:

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Mrs Margaret Ahmad <manager.swift@gmail.com>
Date: 7 August 2011 07:14
Subject: My Dubai Order Purchase
To: reynoldsalexandria@gmail.com

Hi Sales,

Am Mrs Margaret Ahmad from Dubai . I want to place an order from you. I know the difficulties encountered when shipping internationally, But that will not be a problem because i am registered with a shipping company whom i have used severally without any delay nor problems with my purchased-goods. Before i place these order, Could you please confirm if i am able to place the order now and most important: I will only be able to make payment via my MC/Master credit card account and full payment will be made before my forwarding agent make pick up the package as that's how how i work. We are set for payment once shipping and order total is invoiced without no delay. I don't place online orders for security reasons. You will have to quote me and charges will be made to my Mc/card once shipping and purchase cost is confirmed and we proceed to shipment from there.

Await your confirmation.

Warmest Regards.
Mrs Margaret Ahmad

Update from Sue

2011-09-01T15:27:00.000+01:00

Hello Everyone,

There are a couple of things to mention about our 'Lets Shop' on the Blog, but first an apology from me...

I completely mucked it up when I went to add some of the new team members to it last week. So much did I muck it up that I actually deleted it, all the categories - everything. Sooooo, with a very red face, I want to give you ALL, my sincere apologies.

Which leads me on to the next matter. Several of us tried to do the necessary repairs but to no avail, until Robert from our very own drkssoapcompany stepped in and sorted it out.

So that's that problem solved, and since I was too terrified to touch it again, Robert was persuaded by me, to update the categories list in the future.

New members will still need to let me know which one, or two categories they want to go into in the first instance, because all the details have to go on the Master Sheet for the team, but then Rob will take over.

The last thing to mention is that since Etsy have changed their main search to 'Relevancy' , it might be time to have a look at all the categories in 'Lets Shop' to see if we can make them more relevant to what buyers are looking for.

A couple of the new team members have already asked to have some new categories added to the list, so at some stage when Rob is going to do this, I'm sure he will be asking us for suggestions. In the meant time, it would be nice of you, if you get a minute, to pop over to Robs shop and 'Favourite' an item, as a thank you for getting us up and running again. It's : www.etsy.com/shop/drksoapcompany?ref=pr_shop_more... if you feel like doing that.

Thank you,

Sue

Fresh 5 on Friday - Gorgeous Greys

2011-08-26T15:34:00.008+01:00

Beautiful handmade offerings from the Etsy Ireland Team.

1. Hand Printed linen napkins from handmadebysima

2. Cushion cover knitted with cables - grey 14x14 inches from Gigi82Knits

3. Crocheted hoops with beads in Silver from AlejandraJacoby

4. Wooden bangle arctic pencil drawing wearable art from PaintBoxWearables

5. Grey Pyrite Gemstone Necklace from lilabelledesign

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Welcome New Members

2011-08-25T12:32:00.001+01:00

Part 2

Hey ho Peeps!

Ellen from The Spiral Goddess

back again for the second part of our

New Member Welcome

Our Team is growing daily

We have 372 members and at this moment there are

6,231 items listed under craftyirelandteam WOW!!

Not bad for our little island.

As always we have a Fabulous array of talent for your viewing pleasure.

So lets begin with

Foal Horse Photograph 8x6 by Szalonaisa in Kilkenny

GAA Baby Gift Set Dublin Vs Cork by TeamBaby in Dublin

Handmade Soap Natural Lavender by drksoapcompany from Cork

1 Metre Bronze Curb Chain 4x5mm by VisualBasics in Dublin

Pink Blossom Hat & Bloomer Set by OurLittleBoutique1 in Dublin

Polly Bracelet by TiniandSparrow from Dublin

Once again new members don't forget to tag your item craftyirelandteam so we can find you for

Fab Fridays,Fresh Picks

and of course Team Treasuries

Stop by the Team Forum for advice, chat and a bit of fun

A very warm Team Welcome to you all,

We wish you Lots of Luck and Many Sales

So off you go peeps visit our newest shops leave some hearts and drop some cash :O)

Until Next Time

♥

Craft Markets

2011-08-19T23:40:00.000+01:00

Just to let you all know two good Craft markets on this weekend Sunday 21st are,
Castletown House Celbridge Co.Kildare ,10am till 5pm
Buttons and Bows, Crumlin,GAA Crumlin Rd. 12am till 6pm
Regards,will keep you posted .

Fresh 5 on Friday - Autumn Hues

2011-08-19T17:00:00.003+01:00

1. Gold Dangle Earrings, Cherry Blossom, Green Olivine from lilabelledesign
2. Wool Felt Brooch from LoftFullOfGoodies
3. Autumn Merino roving from woollygathering
4. Crochet Applique Flowers in Fall Colours from AnnieDesign
5. Tea Light Candle Holder from ArtGlamourSligo

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Welcome New Members

2011-08-16T13:50:00.001+01:00

Hey ho! Ellen from The Spiral Goddess here again folks!

Time to Welcome our Newbie members.

The great news is we have quite a few new members since last month

so this will be a 2 part post

Let the games begin with......

Sleepy Bears Cross Stitch Framed with Baby's Details By Clionascrossstitch in Dublin

Bird by CreativeFluxCraft from Belfast

Vintage Glass Buttons And Crystal Chips by Lexrey from Dublin

Connemara Marble Cake Server By HennessyandByrne in Dunboyne

Felt Plush Sausage Dog By littlehappystitches in Belfast

Light Blue Lampwork Bracelet by Aoirghe in Dublin

Wheel Thrown Smoke Fired Porcelain Vessel by nicoleportlock in Abbeyfeale

I think you will all agree that we have a wonderful array of items here from some very talented crafters! So stop by our newest shops and leave some hearts and tell your friends.

New Members don't forget to tag your items craftyirelandteam so we can find you for

Treasuries, Fab Fridays and Fresh Picks

We wish you all Many sales and lots of luck.

See you all very soon for part 2

♥

Crafty Ireland News + UPDATES.....

2011-08-15T09:28:00.001+01:00

Greetings from the Crafty News Desk
I have just popped back to say hello.

Natalie from thebluesylph is taking on the job but wont be here until September, so in the meantime she has asked me to do one more report, a sort of round up on whats on in August and any relevant news for the coming months.

August is a very busy month on the craft front with loads of events and market opportunities happening all around the country.

All the main events are listed on the Year of Craft website - craftinireland
For a full roundup of events in Northern Ireland see - augustcraftmonth
The main Craft Council of Ireland have listings on market opportunities, events for sellers, resources etc. and it is a great resource to use - ccoi
Crafters Ireland organise craft fairs and events around the country - craftersireland
August is craft month in Cork - cork
Exhibition of the RDS National Craft Competition winners is on in the Westmeath Civic Offices 23rd August - 23rd September
Outdoor painting workshop in in Avoca next Saturday - avocapaintingschool
Glass Fusing course in Westport on 10-11 September - blueglasshouse

NEWS EXTRA::::

A very special Craft Day in aid of the Famine in Africa will be held in Dublin on 3rd September next in the Damer Hall, St. Stephens Green. Loads of Craft Classes (I will be taking a beginners knitting and demonstrating wool spinning on my trusty spinning wheel) and lots of crafts to buy as well as coffee and cakes...... It would be great to see you there. Information here ---- handmaidcraftday

If you have any events that you would like to highlight and add to the list either add them to the end of this report as a comment or contact me through my shop and I will add them to the main list.

That's about it for now. I am looking forward to what Natalie brings to the News Reports and know that she will do a great job. Best of luck Natalie.

Cheers
Mo
HUGGLEKNITS

Fresh 5 on Friday - Teals

2011-08-12T15:27:00.005+01:00

1.Lush: Wool Felt Cuff/Wristband from LoftFullOfGoodies

2.One of a kind arm warmers, fingerless gloves from spiralgypsy

3.Do You Love Me card - Handmade in Ireland from jmmcards

4.From the knitting bag of... Personalized Note Cards from designbirdie

5.Aqua - Lampwork Pendant Necklace from fiorejewellery

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

The New Etsy Ireland Committee

2011-08-10T00:15:00.001+01:00

Organic green cotton strip dress by pureharte

Team Admin: Sue from amazingbeads
Blog Co-Ordinator: Amy from pervertedcoffee

New Member Admin for 'Welcome' updates: Ellen from Spiralgoddess

Web Designer: Maggie from TheBowMakers
Techie Backup: Apple from AuntyApplesReFinery

Blog Hosts: Ruth from nicedaydesigns, Mo from Huggleknits, Mante from MedusaJewellery, Tara from mariposavintage, Frances from ShineSpinner, Carys from bottleheads
Crafty News: Natalie from the Blue Sylph
Treasury Currator: (vacancy)
Fab Five on Fridays: Rachel from balanced
Eyes Open Ireland (monthly): Ellen from Spiralgodess
Tea and a Chat: Rebecca from LuckyRainbowDesigns

Twitter: Letizia from ooakie
Facebook: Nadine from thethistlepatch

PR/Think Tank: Angela from graceandfavourshop, Sue from amazingbeads

Area Representatives:
Belfast: Brigitte from PurlsofColour
Dublin: Natalie from the Blue Sylph
Galway: Tara from mariposavintage
Limerick:Ruth from nicedaydesigns
Cork: Amy from pervertedcoffee

Fresh 5 on Friday - Touch of Nature

2011-08-05T14:56:00.007+01:00

1.Silk Scarf. Vintage Silk and Organic Cotton from kaftansarafan

2.Bird on a branch in silk lining Clutch Bag from BagNoir

3.Acorn illustrated Earrings from designbirdie

4.Long Gold Feather dangly earrings ABoxForMyTreasure

5.48 Autumn Leaves, sculptural ceramic 3d tile from karoart

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Fresh Appeal for Blog Contributors

2011-07-28T11:30:00.007+01:00

Salt Dough Angel Mrs Hope by Jokamin

Hi Anne-Marie of byAMOR here. Last month an appeal for new committee volunteers was posted on this blog. A big thank you goes to those who have put themselves forward for various roles. However, the team still needs a Blog Co-ordinator and contributing hosts to keep the Crafty Ireland Team blog alive and kicking.

I have been a regular blog host for the past year but for now, have to step back for a while due to health issues and other commitments. I will continue to contribute on occasion but I feel that the blog could do with some fresh input. Like me, Brigitte (aka Purls) of Purls of Colour, our fandabulous Blog Co-ordinator, has also completed two terms in her role and she too needs to step down and attend to other commitments.

Little Chihuahua in a Gift Bag by Tanya Bond

So your team needs YOU! You know you can’t resist the call...and if 'the call' doesn't reach you, maybe this cute puppy's begging eyes will....

I'm confident I can speak for Brigitte too when I say the past year on the committee has been very rewarding. Getting involved in the team has helped us get to know many fellow members and to forge great working relationships with several of you. I also found blogging has given me another creative outlet. Contributing to the team blog can raise your profile, improve your internet presence, and if my Google Analytics statistics are right, send more traffic to your shop. While contributing regularly, the blog was one of the main referring sites to my store. I haven’t been able to post an article in several weeks and the ratio has shifted significantly. However, articles I wrote even a year ago are still sending me visitors.

Celtic Bookmark, byAMOR

The weekly slots, ‘How to Tuesdays’ and ‘Trade Secrets Thursdays,’ need regular as well as once-off or occasional contributors. Anyone on the team can write for the blog and you don’t need to be no James Joyce. And anything goes as long as it is somehow related or relevant to the Crafty Ireland team, handmade, homemade, craft, art, Etsy, etc. Don’t be put off if you’ve never written before. You might discover a new talent! Plenty of help is on hand with posting if you are new to blogging. I found this how to on blogging by Ruth of Nice Day Designs very useful.

Crocheted clock by Helidesigns

For the past 12 months I contributed mainly to Trade Secret Thursdays, roughly every fortnight. This has proven an excellent way to give back to the team, flex my writing skills and also flag my Etsy store. If you are a little time poor to look after your own daily blog to promote your store, becoming a regular contributor for the Etsy Ireland blog may be the perfect solution.

A Burst of Purple by Purls of Colour

But there’s no point having contributors without a Blog Co-ordinator to knit it all together. The main aspects of the role are to schedule contributions, monitor content, contribute where needed and keep it all flowing and lovely. Fuller details can be found in this post. Like all committee roles, the position is rotated every 6 months, with the option to continue for longer. Brigitte will be around to help the new Co-ordinator get started. "Being Blog Co-Ordinator has been a fabulous and rewarding experience'' she says. "You really get to know your team and learn so many interesting and useful things. And not to forget, it's also great fun!!!"

If you would like to volunteer in any capacity please post a comment below or contact our out-bound Blog Co-ordinator Brigitte (Purls of Colour), who can set you up.

Fresh 5 on Friday - So charming!

2011-07-22T13:38:00.004+01:00

1.Nautical Blue & White Stripe Cotton Shoe Bow Clips from TheBowMakers

2.Blue Stripes Yoga Bag from mukkymonkey

3.Bespoke Arklow 2 tier cake stand from AuntyApplesReFinery

4.Vintage Tan Leather Ostrich Purse, Wallet from LarkVintage

5.Vintage Blue Flower stud earrings from ABoxForMyTreasure

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Fresh 5 on Friday - Jewel Tones

2011-07-15T11:07:00.006+01:00

1. Raspberry Cupcake kitchen wall art / table decor from madebyjillybean

2. Glamorous earrings Swarovski crystal VITRAIL from HeleneJEWELRYdesign

3. Au Gre des Couleurs- Signed Limited Edition Print from ameliegallery

4. Fabric Blooming Flower Brooch - Burgundy Violet from joannafelt

5. Blue & Pink Porcupine Ring from blathdesigns

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fresh Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Welcome New Members

2011-07-12T12:13:00.008+01:00

Hi All :O)
Ellen here from The Spiral Goddess. I have just taken over this post of Welcoming new members. We are a bit behind in our welcome posts so please accept my apologies but I promise to get to everyone asap!

Please bear with me as I figure out graphics etc...

Anyhoo Here for your shopping pleasure may I now present three of our New Members.

Vibrant Pink Purse with Rose From MeanyMays shop based in beautiful Donegal

Needle Felt Fox Kit by SnagBreac from County Roscommon
(very cute)

Make a Wish Card by Kali146 from Tralee Co.Kerry

So stop by everyone and share the Etsy Love, leave a heart or two and shop till you drop!!

A Warm Welcome to you all and don't forget to tag your items craftyirelandteam so we can find you for Treasuries and Fab Fridays etc. Stop by the Team Forum for a chat and support and a bit of fun :O)

We Wish You Many Sales and Lots of Success ♥

(I know it doesn't look very sexy yet but I'm a newbie :O)

Fresh 5 on Friday - Pastels

2011-07-08T09:57:00.008+01:00

1. Vintage Brooch Bouquet in Pastels from StarryFlowerLove
2. New Baby Keepsake Art Quilt Pillow from homespunireland
3. Songbirds silkscreen print from SilkscreenSweetie
4. Hammered Gold Ring and Pink Jade Earrings from ABoxForMyTreasure
5. Pastel Blue Rose Ring from lilabelledesign

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fab Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Shligigh-ish Crafties Ahoy!

2011-07-03T06:48:00.000+01:00

Calling all Northwest of Ireland Etsy Seller People!
(Sound like Captain Janeway from the Starship ‘Enterprise’, don’t I!)

Since this is the year of Craft, I’ve been reading about all sorts of Craft events and ‘do’s’ happening elsewhere in the country; but the nearest to Sligo is either Donegal or Ballinasloe, as far as I’ve discovered. For anyone with children, transport restrictions (i.e. Cost of petrol- not funny), work commitments, etc, travelling far isn’t really possible. It certainly is impossible for me.

Enter the Great Notion! We make our own Shligigh group!

I wonder if any of you who are within easy reach of Sligo, would be interested in getting together on a regular (monthly?) informal basis to meet and greet, show and tell, talk and listen, support, cheer on, brainstorm, and all that sorta jazz … each other? I’m specifying ‘Sellers’ here because I know there are already various craft groups, and I think it is ‘sellers’ who need to support each other, having a somewhat different outlook, set of interests/ needs to ‘hobby’ crafts’ people.

At present my idea is just to meet each other, like minded Crafties, you know? But some of you may have ideas for doing more, and I certainly would be interested in any ideas you have, especially any which raise the profile of us Crafties trying to earn a living in the Barbaric West!!
(joke- I’m Irish and proud of it!)

As a start, perhaps if you are interested in meeting, you could convo me with a ‘yea’, or a ‘nay’. If you don’t wish to be included in further updates, (and I do appreciate that many people have enough to do without something like this) I’d appreciate knowing, and if it’s a ‘yea’ perhaps emails would be an easier way to group message?

Secondly, it seems to me that an early evening meeting (like 7 or 7.30) on a weeknight would probably suit most people, over a coffee/ tea (can’t afford a meal out), so perhaps you’d like to indicate which night would suit, otherwise I’d just make an arbitrary choice.

Thirdly, a cafe in Sligo town would seem an obvious venue, and if people are keen I’ll investigate where is open and/or suitable. Of course, if we grow into something amazing, we could be hiring the Sligo Park next!!!!!!!
Anyhow, please let me know what you think and we’ll take it from there!

Regards,
Heather (from HecketyBeckety on Etsy)

heckety@hotmail.com

If you want a phone number, please email or convo me? And btw (or is it fyi?) texting or email is my preferred method of communication!!

Fab 5 on Friday - Summer Brights

2011-07-01T13:24:00.006+01:00

1. Night Blossom Brooch from ShinyJane
2. Vintage Tan Leather Satchel Bag from LarkVintage
3. Recycled Wood Plant Holder from ArtGlamourSligo
4. Crocheted Hoop Earrings from AlejandraJacoby
5. Handwoven Necklace from BagNoir

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fab Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

It's a Wrap: Etsy Ireland Pop-Up Shop

2011-06-30T13:25:00.002+01:00

Press Shot of the shop by Neville Gawley

The Limerick Etsy Ireland Pop-Up shop is all finished now. It's all been packed up, and the last few bits and pieces are sitting in my living room, and will definitely be sorted today before my housemate kills me! It was a really great achievement for the team and an invaluable experience to learn how a shop works, even just for a month. The space we were using (thanks again to our hero Niall!) is now being turned into a late night cafe, and I for one am delighted, the city really needs it! It's amazing how long it took to put together and in the space of an hour it was all in boxes and packed into the back of Helen's car!

The shop all packed up in bags and sitting in my living room!

It was a really great success sales-wise I never would have expected it to be so popular. I noticed a big difference between selling in a shop as opposed to a market. There seemed to be a greater enthusiasm and appreciation for the craft. People were commenting on how reasonable the prices were(contrasted to some of the comments I get at my stall that I'm ripping people off). It was interesting to note the shift in attitude, I think when people are in town and shopping they are in the mode to spend more money,€20 for a bracelet seems fine when you are next door to a boutique. Whereas €20 for the same item when you are next to a veg stall and a bric a brac stall suddenly seems extortionate-it's all about context.

There was repeated comments throughout the month about how positive people were to see Irish handcrafts and also to see something so creative happening in their city. People are so jaded with doom and gloom in the media that they want to hear about people making a go of it themselves and starting their own business, and lots of people wanted to support that with their wallets.

It was also interesting to look at the figures at the end of the month and see that not all the big sales when to the most popular shops. So if you aren't doing great on Etsy don't be disheartened, maybe a shop would be better for you. There were sellers that have only made a few online sales who did incredibly well in the shop, some things just need to be seen in person maybe.

As for what sold? On the first weekend lots of baby things sold, lots of people were passing through who knew someone with a new baby and they were looking for a gift and a card. Also wedding cards were very sought after. It's true Ireland is going through a wedding and baby boom, so if you can capitalise on it you should. Cards were very popular as they were the lowest priced items and people picked up a few for future occasions while they were browsing. Even though we had lots of jewellery it did sell well, with rings being one of the best sellers.

The cool bags that Etsy sent us!

Etsy were very good and got in touch with me, they wanted to thank us for all the hard work we've put it and they also sponsored our second lot of flyers that we needed to get printed. They also sent us these fab tote bags, which we gave to customers who spent over €10, a great incentive for people to put their hands in the pockets! They are also sponsoring those of us who worked in the shop to go for a few drinks to celebrate, which will be happening when I get around to arranging it! I was delighted that they spotted what we were doing, apparently it was the US branch that got in touch with Amity and told her to hunt down the organiser. So Etsy are watching us!

We also managed to get into two newspapers, both the Sunday Business Post and also the Limerick Leader. The local paper brought us some extra footfall and sales. If we do this again we must try to get the press on board early, as we were nearly finished by the time it went to press.

A mortifying picture of myself and Noreen Foley that was in The Limerick Leader

I have put forward an application to the council to try to get a space in Limerick near to Christmas. I haven't heard a peep from them yet but I'll keep you guys posted. It won't be exactly the same arrangement as before, I've learned an awful lot by doing this pop-up shop, but all details will be discussed before hand. I know that markets were not that great for me last year and it's in my best interest to find another avenue for selling. Last year it was just too darned cold to sell outdoors, and the customers all flocked to the shops where there were heaters, and it wasn't -12! If the council don't give us anything maybe we could look at renting a low priced art space for a month...or something like that. It's early days yet and we have lots of time to throw out ideas. Also it might be good for the Dublin branch to give it a go, if you can't get anything officially, maybe approach individual businesses and see if you could work something out.

Press Photos by Neville Gawley

Press photos by Neville Gawley

I'd like to thank everyone who gave of their time to help man the shop, this couldn't have worked without the support of everyone. So please click on the links and visit their shops to show your appreciation.
Helen from Stained Glass Fayre
Rebecca from Lucky Rainbow Designs
Neville from Neville Gawley Photography
Jess from Bettyoctopus
Majella and her husband Bart from Delicious Art Glass
Mark from Marmot Art (not on etsy yet but I'll convince him to join soon!)
and
Me(Ruth) from Nice Day Designs and Nice Day Supplies

Noreen and partner Locky from Hanora.K.Designs(not on etsy but I'm helping her set up her shop this month)
Also thanks to Ann, Orla and Noreen for the tables. To Niall and all the staff of Bourkes Bar for their time,patience, and the space! To Michelle and Alice from Fonelifair for sponsoring our flyers. To Neville for taking pictures of the space for us. To Neville for doing the shop on my birthday so I could have a day off!

(A small note to sellers involved: Thanks for being understanding with my lack of emails sometimes.The project turned into something much bigger than the two day event that I originally took on. It's taken longer than expected to sort through all the work, but I'll be posting out the rest of it today. If you haven't heard from me yet I'll also be in touch today, I've about 6 people yet left to email.)

Trend Watching: The Future of Home Sewing – Sewing Blog | BurdaStyle.com

2011-06-29T21:07:00.000+01:00

Just read this interesting article on Burda Style... also the comments section is facinating!

Trend Watching: The Future of Home Sewing – Sewing Blog | BurdaStyle.com

Check it out!!

Committee Vacancies

2011-06-29T01:13:00.005+01:00

Handmade greeting card by jmmcards

Our new Etsy Ireland Team Committee is nearly complete. However, we urgently need volunteers for the remaining jobs:

Blog Co-ordinator (rotated every 6 months)

work with the 'blog hosts' to provide daily content on the blog
create a blog timetable/ calendar through shared docs, for instance Google Calendar
write articles, especially when there are gaps in the schedule
edit submitted articles if necessary
deal with minor technical glitches on the blog
add blog hosts/ regular contributors as blog authors to the blog so that they can publish their articles themselves
encourage members to submit content, this involves mentioning the blog in the team forums and to new members, as well as publishing calls for new content on the blog regularly
co-operate with the Blog Designer to have regular design changes
be the contact person for the blog and respond to queries

Weekly Crafty News Reporter: reports on interesting crafty events, markets and developments

Natalie from the Blue Sylph

Treasury Curator: publishes summary of the weekly Etsy Ireland Team Treasuries and runs Team Treasury Challenges

More Blog Hosts: responsible for assisting Blog Co-Ordinator in maintaining a complete blog schedule and help fill gaps where necessary.

Mo from Huggleknits

More people for the PR Team/Think Tank

Area representatives for ~~Dublin~~, Belfast and Cork

Dublin: Natalie from the Blue Sylph

To keep the blog running smoothly and have regular content, it is important that we do have dedicated writers and a blog co-ordinator. I (Purls) will be hanging around and write the odd article, so whoever takes up my mantle will not be left hanging out to dry in this Irish weather.

Puzzled by fiorejewellery

It seems our potential crafty writers and editors are a bit shy. Step forward and shine!!!

And the winner is...

2011-06-28T14:17:00.001+01:00

Congratulations AuntyApplesReFinery for winning this month's Etsy Ireland Treasury Challenge 'Teamwork'!!!

Thank you to all those who participated and voted in this rather difficult challenge, and once we have a new Treasury Curator *hint hint* there will be more challenges to come! A special mention goes to Dita Maulani, who joined the challenge from as far as Indonesia.

Now the spotlight is on Apple. You can also admire her Mini Etsy on the sidebar for a week.

Apple is 31 and lives in Arklow. Married to a Dublin man, she has one child, Lennon, who is a cute two years of age. In a past life, she was a Software Engineer, but after having her baby, she fell ill and was made redundant. This very difficult situation led to a new opportunity when her sister, our very own Etsy Ireland Blog Designer, Maggie (thebowmakers), introduced her to Etsy and convinced her to start "the secret making things club" again. This is like a think thank for Apple and her friends - they make lovely, high quality products and sell them as cheaply as possible.

Pink peonie and wild flowers mosaic pieces

Apple's passion is baking (mostly for family and friends) and out of necessity she had to make her own cake stands. Therefore, she started collecting vintage plates to fill her dresser and ended up with a wendy house full.

Rose garden, three tier cake stand

She would love to take other people's heirloom mis-matched plates from dusty corners and turn them into something usable. Her inspiration comes from Arklow pottery, because it was made in the place she lives in, Arklow. Furthermore, Apple's mother worked in the pottery in the 1970s. Sadly, like so many things, it is not being made anymore and is getting very hard to find.

Pink and cream vintage wild flower tea cup pincushion with felt balls

Please visit Apple's blog for more:
auntyapplesrefinery.blogspot.com/

Welcome New Members...

2011-06-28T00:00:00.009+01:00

It's my pleasure to introduce you to our latest group of Etsy Ireland members. We have nine great new shops to browse. So if you get a chance over the next couple of days please pay them a visit and drop off a few hearts. And to all our new members, remember you can see who hearts you at a glance here.

Above from left to right:

1888 Rare Antique Book - The Light of Asia - Marbled Cover Blue Gold Turquoise from The Ink Spot Book Shop;

Hand spun wool yarn, cream cheviot 80g by Teddy Baby;

Resin Cameo Cabochon Lady from Irish Findings.

Above from left to right:

3 Angel Head Embelishments from vixyvixy;

Bella Figura Wedding Invites-Nantucket Letterpress by Pretty as a Picture;

Silk White Wedding Hat by Shabbycloche.

Above from left to right:

Spring Sunrise Purple and Blue Hooded Jumperdress by Pooka Designs;

Little Feather Long Chain Earrings by nicobel;

and last but not least Vilette by Charlotte Bronte and Poems by Robert Louis Stevenson from TheDukesHat.

Great to have you all on board and looking forward to seeing more gorgeous goodies popping up from you in the near future. Until next time....

Crafty News Desk

2011-06-27T00:07:00.002+01:00

Greetings from the Crafty News Desk.

As I am coming to the end of my 12 months tour of duty I would like to thank all of you for your news items and comments over the last year.
If any of you are interested in taking over I would be more than happy to help in any way, even stay with you for the first few weeks.    All you really need is the information - some of which comes from the rest of the group, some from trawling the internet, twitter, facebook and the news papers and some from tapping into weekly news sheets. That's if for the Job Advertisement......

This week's mixed news bag:

There are a number of very interesting talks/demos happening in our museums over the next few months e.g. a talk from 2 of Ireland's jewellers on 2 July; a tour of Neillí Mulcahy's Fashion Designs on 8 July and a tour on the history of glassmaking on 5 August to name but a few - all at Collins Barracks. Well worth a look as you never know what you might find there.... Museum

Summer Evening Mosaic Workshop in Bennetsbridge, Wednesdays 6, 13 + 20 July 2011, 7:30pm – 9:30pm.  E: jenettecastle@gmail.com              www.castlerinstudios.blogspot.com

Craft West - Carlton Shearwater Hotel, Ballinasloe, Co Galway - 24 July 2011.   There are stands available to all exhibitors who produce Irish made goods.   Any questions you have or if you would like an application form email Mary, at craftwest@gmail.com.

The Drawing Workshop in The National Botanic Gardens will run on Wednesdays this July 6, 13, 20 in the beautiful and inspiring gardens in Dublin 9. Cost: E75, materials included. The workshops are designed for adults with little drawing experience, or those who’d like to refresh their skills, in a supportive, relaxing environment guided by two tutors. Places limited to 12. E: debbiejenkinson@gmail.com

T: 086 0565907 hedrawingworkshop.tumblr.com

Exchange Market have some stands available for their next Art and Craft market in Dublin on 9 July ..... info here exchange market

Thats about it for this week. As always thanks for the info. If I missed anything please tag it on to the end of this post.

Cheers
Mo
huggleknits

Fab 5 on Friday - Honeysuckle

2011-06-24T09:00:00.003+01:00

Inspired by one of Pantones prominent colours for Fall 2011 - Honeysuckle (mixed with a bit of Fresh Green)

... this is me wishfully thinking we will get a proper Summer before Summer is over.

1. Pink and Cream Crochet Roses from AnnieDesign
2. Pink Powder Felt and Ceramic Necklace from joannafelt
3. "Apartment Sweet Apartment" Print from ThePrintMakers
4. Floral Purse/Wallet from joanyg
5. Spring Garden Lampwork Earrings from FioreJewellery

Chosen by Rach of balanced
If you would like to suggest or curate a Fab Five on Friday collection of your own, just send me an Etsy convo :)

Crafty Ireland Skills Swap

2011-06-23T00:00:00.012+01:00

Sundial Fine Silver Pendant by Ella Green Jewellery

Hi Anne-Marie of Handmade by Amo'r here reporting on a successful exchange of crafty know-how. The Skillz Swap Shop was born after an inspiring Dublin meeting back in March this year. The discussion thread gave team members a place to find others willing to exchange skills and knowledge. I've heard that a few team mates have since followed up. Recently I had the fantastic opportunity to meet up with Eimear of Ella Green Jewellery for our own swap.

Eimear (above) offered me an introductory lesson in using PMC (precious metal clay) to make fine silver penants and charms. In exchange I offered help and advice in regard to online selling and her new Etsy shop. I also brought her some gemstones and beads from my stash. I still feel like I came out best in that deal!

The lesson took place at Eimear's home and studio. Though she normally works from her designated office, she had moved everything into the more spacious and airy kitchen.

First she showed me Siligum moulds she had already made from a variety of objects. I set to work pressing some PMC3 clay into them. I used a piece of leather to create interesting texture on the back of this piece.

While leaving the clay to dry on a mug warmer, I answered Eimear's initial queries regarding topics such as shipping rates, Google Analytics and seasonality on Etsy (eg, prepare for Christmas by mid September.)

Eimear then showed me how to cut shapes in the clay using stensils as an alternative to moulds. She used two small, equal piles of playing cards on each side before rolling the clay. This ensures that the clay will roll out evenly. In the picture above I am placing a small flower stensil onto a piece I have rolled out. It was quite a delicate matter getting the flower to land exactly in the middle. (I have to admit I made a bit of a mess cutting around and shaping this flower though....oops!)

Again, the cut-out was left to dry on the mug warmer. While waiting, I showed Eimear how to make an Etsy treasury.

And here is her first team treasury, 'Bye Bye Blues.' (Thanks for the inclusion Eims!)

In the meantime the clay pendants had dried. Next came the real fun as I got to use a butane torch to fire them. I'm afraid we were so caught up in what we were doing that I don't have a decent pic of this in action. This clip from Cooksongold, where I purchased the PMC3, gives you an idea of what it is like. It was so much fun, I'm still not sure if I unleashed the alchemist in me or discovered a disturbing interest in burning things....speaking of which, is that the dinner I smell?

Eimear took me through the follow up stages from soldering on a jump ring, through pickling and quenching to the final stages of brushing and filing. I had to admire her dedication to perfection as she patiently filed away the edges of a pendant.

Meanwhile, I did my best to impart useful advice on pricing and listing her gorgeous jewellery.

Here is my first PMC effort, not perfect, but I love it all the same.

...and the textured back of my second effort. Alas, the dodgy stensiled flower was too embarrassing to show. Methinks I will leave such delicate operations until I am more familiar with the clay.

Eimear often pulls from nature to create elegant jewellery.

I can't wait until I have collected all the tools and equipment to get going! A big thank you to Eimear. The lesson has openend a door to so many possibilities, limited only by my imagination...and that's one thing at least that I have in plentiful supply.

I have a penchant for the asymmetrical and abstract as well as Celtic motifs and sea themes. With precious metal clay I can introduce a new dimension to my designs. I hope Eimear benefits equally from the skills swap.

Ocean Moon by Handmade by Amo'r

The Skillz Swap Shop thread remains open to members of the team. If you have already taken part in a swap session, or plan to, we'd absolutley love to hear about it on the blog!

Crafty News Desk

2011-06-22T18:30:00.000+01:00

Greetings from a sick and sorry Crafty News Editor.
I have been laid low with a flu virus since Sunday night and have only just come out from under the duvet.

Can I ask anyone who reads this, if you have any news items you would like to share with us all, please add the details underneath in the comments. If there are any aspiring reporters out there who are considering taking the seat at the Crafty News Desk in July, now is a good time to try it out.

I will be back behind the desk again next Monday.

Till then
take care
Mo

A Huge Warm Welcome......

2011-06-21T00:00:00.005+01:00

It's my pleasure to introduce you to our latest group of Etsy Ireland members. We have six fab new shops to browse. So if you get a chance over the next couple of days please visit and drop off a few hearts.

Above from left to right:

Curragower Falls Limerick - 8x12 Photograph Original Signed by Neville Gawley Photography;

Tea lovers greetings cards - set of 2 (green and blue) by BottleHeads Crafts;

Above from left to right:

Little Beaded Killer Whale by Alisa Julie;

Victoria. Vintage Chocolate Brown Leather, Bohemian Shoulder Bag Handbag with ornate medal detail from Lark Vintage;

Above from left to right:

Just emerald earrings by emeraldmystery;

and last but not least Pictures from the Unconscious - IVY DANCE by BallinPaintings.

Great to have you all on board and looking forward to seeing more great things popping up from you in the near future. And don't forget to our new members you can check out how many hearts you receive at a glance here. Until next time....

Step forward and volunteer!

2011-06-19T13:36:00.009+01:00

'Shakespeare Print' by designbirdie

The last six months just flew by! One minute we held the fabulous St Patrick's Day Treasure Hunt, the next moment the Etsy Ireland Pop-Up shop opened, and now we are coming towards the end of June, are still waiting for the summer, and have to start thinking of a new committee.

Letizia (Team Admin) and I, Purls (Blog Co-Ordinator) have been in our posts for a year and it's been a blast. However, we are now looking for two people who can take the Etsy Ireland mantle from us. Don't worry, we'll be around for help and advice. Letizia will keep our Twitter page updated, and I plan to write the odd blog article or two ;)

Volunteering on the team committee is a very satisfying experience. You get to know lots of amazing crafty people, you learn new skills, and get lots and lots of inspiration for everything, from your own craft to life in general. You also get a great sense of community, and don't feel like you're just a lonely crafter in a big world of people who don't care about handmade.

The following posts are up for grabs, so don't hesitate and bring your enthusiasm and ideas to the team!!!

~~Team Admin (rotated every 6 months)~~

~~responsible for making newcomers welcome, send out information about membership and passing on links (facebook/flickr/blog...)~~
~~add/invite people who become members to the Etsy team page & update the shop directory. Also add new members blogs to the members blog list.~~
~~encourage members to tag items correctly with 'craftyirelandteam'~~
~~be on hand for general queries from new and existing members~~
~~take random queries from press and send queries/press to the relevant person in the team who can help them. Also to update the contact tab on the blog when neccessary~~
~~email the New Member Admin weekly with the names of new members for inclusion in the 'Welcome' post on the blog~~
~~fresh picks on the blog - every few days pick 3 new favourites for the blog sidebar~~
~~contact craft shops and ask for team discounts & update the craft suppliers tab on the blog~~

Blog Co-ordinator (rotated every 6 months)

work with the 'blog hosts' to provide daily content on the blog
create a blog timetable/ calendar through shared docs, for instance Google Calendar
write articles, especially when there are gaps in the schedule
edit submitted articles if necessary
deal with minor technical glitches on the blog
add blog hosts/ regular contributors as blog authors to the blog so that they can publish their articles themselves
encourage members to submit content, this involves mentioning the blog in the team forums and to new members, as well as publishing calls for new content on the blog regularly
co-operate with the Blog Designer to have regular design changes
be the contact person for the blog and respond to queries

~~New Member Admin for 'Welcome' updates~~

announce new members publicly on the blog (Member Update) once weekly email is received from Team Admin: this involves visiting each new member's shop, getting a pic and title of a current item, creating the collage or composite graphic of that week's members and then getting a slot from the Blog Co-Ordinator to do the Welcome post

Blog Hosts

Responsible for assisting Blog Co-Ordinator in maintaining a complete blog schedule and help fill gaps where necessary. There are regular hosts and hosts who don't have a weekly slot.

Anne Marie who has been a regular contributor to this blog for a year now has decided to take a break, and Mo, who has kept us informed about all things crafty in the Crafty News also wants to take a break. This means, we need somebody who would love to write the Crafty News once a week, and also more blog hosts. ~~We also need somebody who currates the Eyes Open Ireland feature since Rachel will be currating the Fab Five on Fridays.~~
If any of the other hosts who have regular slots would like a break, or 'change jobs', please let us know here. Maggie, our blog designer who has been working quietly in the background, will stay in her post.

PR Team/Think Tank (long term role for 3 - 5 members)

The Think Tank has yet to get off the ground properly, although we had some great work from more informal groups of team members in relation to the St Patrick's Day Treasure Hunt and the Etsy Ireland Pop-Up shop. However, maybe this term we might finally get a bunch of proactive creative thinkers and most importantly 'doers' to help generate publicity for the team, online and offline. This would include writing press releases, organising team promotions and publicising the team at events or organising publicity events for the team. The Think Tank works closely with the Team Admin and Blog Co-Ordinator.

The Think Tank is also responsible for applying for team grants and informing the team of progress via blog, facebook, twitter, Crafty Ireland Team forums, and Etsy chat room.

Area Representatives:

Represent your Area! Hosting a team meeting is a great way to do that! We need reps for
Dublin, Belfast, ~~Galway~~, ~~Limerick~~ and Cork. If there is a significantly large group of Etsy Ireland team members elsewhere, do let the Team Admin know and discuss where to set up meetings for said group!
Each rep will be responsible for setting up meeting time/location and inviting members in your locality to come along. No big agenda! Just meet up, chat, show off your latest makes, maybe have a craft supply swap and have fun. We’d love each rep to blog after each meeting with some photos and a little summary of what you all got up to!

That's it for the moment, new or new vacant posts might be added to this list - we are always open for new suggestions - so keep an eye on this blog. Informal enquiries about posts can also be made to me, Purls, and Letizia.

Purls

New Committee:

Team Admin: Sue from amazingbeads
Blog Co-Ordinator:
New Member Admin for 'Welcome' updates: Ellen from Spiralgoddess

Web Designer: Maggie from TheBowMakers
Techie Backup: Apple from AuntyApplesReFinery
Blog Hosts: Ruth from nicedaydesigns, Mante from MedusaJewellery

Crafty News:
Treasury Currator:
Eyes Open Ireland (monthly): Ellen from Spiralgodess

Fab Five on Fridays: Rachel from balanced
Tea and a Chat: Rebecca from LuckyRainbowDesigns
Twitter: Letizia from ooakie
Facebook: Nadine from thethistlepatch

PR/Think Tank: Angela from graceandfavourshop, Sue from amazingbeads
Area Representatives:
Galway: mariposavintage
Limerick: Ruth from nicedaydesigns

Tea and a chat with.....

2011-06-18T08:47:00.000+01:00

The lovely and very creative Mollie Barrow from Spleodar. Sit down and put the kettle on everyone!

Tell us a bit about yourself!

Hi there! My name's Mollie Barrow and I make sparkly fused glass things from my studio in North Tipperary. I live in Cloughjordan, home to Ireland's first eco-village and next-door to Barack Obama's ancestral home of Moneygall, with my 10-year old son Elliot and a couple of cats. I also co-own Sheelagh na Gig (http://facebook.com/sheelaghnagig), Cloughjordan's bookshop and café, though since February I've been artsying full-time and have left the shop in my business partner Liz's capable hands.

Liz is also coordinating the upcoming Cloughjordan Festival, and I'll be exhibiting my work during it at the Totally Tipperary (http://www.facebook.com/totallytipp) slow food event in the grounds of Cloughjordan House on the 25th and 26th of June. Also as part of the Cloughjordan Festival, I'll be running a series of fused glass workshops for children. I've never taught anyone anything before, and I'm sure I don't need to tell you how terrified I am!

How do you find selling on Etsy?
Slow, to be honest. I opened my shop in 2009, but didn't give it any attention. In 2010, I kept the shop closed whilst I stockpiled my pieces for the National Crafts Fair in December. I re-opened when I stopped working in Sheelagh na Gig, and have been putting a lot of time and effort into it since.

Because of the nature of glass and the fact that my work needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated, and of course Ireland's being an island in the middle of the Atlantic, I think the majority of my sales will continue to be local to Ireland. And that suits me. I am very grateful to Etsy for exposure, though! In just a few months, my work has been featured in blogs and articles all over the internet thanks to the traffic to my Etsy shop.

Describe your artistic process:

I experiment! All the time. Kiln-forming glass involves melting glass in a kiln at temperatures

up to 815c/1500f and then slowly cooling it to harden and to prevent thermal shock, depending on the effect you're trying to achieve.

There are lots of cold-working methods that come into it too:

like grinding pieces into shape, or sawing or sandblasting.

But I love the actual kiln-work itself.

I love the thrill of taking temperatures up higher than usual,

I love combing glass when it's almost molten to

create mad patterns, or letting it 'boil' at 1800f.

I think glass has a mind of it's own. I just facilitate it expressing itself!

I do have respect for and appreciate the rules of kiln-forming glass,

you have to if you don't want your pieces to shatter, but beyond that I just allow it to do its own thing!

Future goals or ambitions?
Dirty words, as far as I'm concerned! I look forward to having a bigger studio someday, though. And once the sprog is off to university or down t'mines or wherever, I'm going to try to do some serious long-stretch travelling. He's 10. I have a bit of a wait.

What does handmade mean to you?
Now that's a loaded question! Beyond the obvious answer of not being made on an assembly-line, I'd say handmade implies quality and real people and skill and soul.

Finally, any words of wisdom?
You're asking the wrong person if you're looking for wisdom! I'll just give you someone else's wise words. Offaly artist Emma Barone (http://emmabarone.com) posted this quote to her facebook page today: 'A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.'--Lou Holtz

Lovely Links
Etsy: http://spleodar.etsy.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/spleodarglass
Website: http://molliebarrow.ie

Thanks Mollie! Best of luck with the children's glasses, I'm sure you'll do wonderful!

Fab Five on Friday

2011-06-17T12:09:00.000+01:00

Treasury Challenge with a twist...

2011-06-16T00:00:00.016+01:00

Penny for your Thoughts by 9design

Time flies! It is nearly six months ago since the existing Etsy Ireland Team committee started their jobs, and soon, we'll be looking for volunteers for the new committee. I shall post the job descriptions and call for volunteers this weekend.

To combine the playful with the necessary, I've decided to kick start the change-over process with a Treasury Challenge. What better way to think about our team and volunteering for a team position than looking at the lovely goodies our team members produce. And we all might get new ideas for the team and what we are going to do next. AM actually gave me the inspiration for this - she should really get a job as a muse!

The topic of the Treasury Challenge is

TEAMWORK

(and yes, it is a challenge, but you can be as creative as you want to!)

Here come the rules:

The treasury must be curated between today and Friday 24 June (midnight GMT) - this is an extension because it looks like people need more time to join the challenge. Voting will then go on until Monday, 27 June, 23:59, and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, 28 June.

A link to your treasury must be posted here in the comments of this post to enter.
Your treasury must contain two tags:craftyirelandteam and citchallenge8 (note the 8).
You must include 8-10 Crafty Ireland Team members in your treasury.
Your treasury must not include one of your own items.

For those who are new to the team and haven't made a treasury yet, here's a link to a handy 'how to make treasuries' written by Anne-Marie from by Amo'r.

The happy winner will receive a a little feature post here on the blog AND their Etsy Mini listed in the sidebar for one whole week!

Happy creating! Looking forward to your inspiring treasuries! If you have any questions about treasuries and the treasury challenge, do not hesitate to post in the comment section, or convo me.

Purls

Entries:

Dita Maulani: Let the pair dance

Fiore Jewellery: Teamwork
byAmo'r: Team Spirit - go Ireland!
Mia loves Jay: Teamwork
Aunty Apples ReFinery: Cool Foggy Dew
Purls: Together, we...

Vote now!!!

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome.......

2011-06-14T00:00:00.003+01:00

It's my pleasure to introduce you to our latest group of Etsy Ireland members. We have six great new shops to browse. So if you get a chance over the next couple of days please pay them a visit and drop off a few hearts.

Above from left to right:

Vintage Brooch Bouquet in Gold and Blue with Antique Paper Flowers from StarryFlowerLove;

Organza/Satin Wedding Table Confetti Scatter Flowers from Happy Hands.

Above from left to right:

Polka dot Bloom handbag by MiaLovesJay;

Two ladies in a boat - Original Fine Art Oil painting by Polly Bell.

Above from left to right:

Sterling silver hammered bangles by Beadmag;

and last but not least Lilac Rose Hair Clip by Natalie Katona Design.

Great to have you all on board and looking forward to seeing more fabulous things popping up from you in the near future. Until next time....

Crafty News Desk

2011-06-13T14:40:00.001+01:00

Greetings from the Crafty News Desk
This weeks photo was taken at the Bloom Festival over the Bank Holiday weekend. I just love this colour combination.....

Continued congrats to Ruth from nicedaydesigns  and all the other volunteers who are working in the Pop Up Shop in Limerick. Nice article in the Limerick Leader limerickleader  .
Only one more weekend left to browse and buy in the shop so get on down to Bourke's Bar in Catherine St. Closes next Sunday......

The Pop Up Shop and Etsy Ireland also were menetioned in the Irish Craft Supplement in the Irish Times last week. Onwards and Upwards ladies and gents!!!!!!!

For those of you in Dublin, there is a series of weekend Craft Fairs in the Powerscourt Centre over the Summer. The rates for the tables are reasonable. Are there any Dublin crafters interested in being part of an Etsy Ireland corner? If so, contract me through my etsy shop and leave your email address. It could be interesting......

Print Block is a collective of textile artists and designers working predominantly in the field of screen print. Print Block originated in 2010 to collaborate on exhibitions, to share information, to gain access to printing facilities in Dublin, and to elevate the medium of textiles within Ireland. At present we are looking to expand our membership and are looking for new members.   For full information please visit printblock.tumblr.com.
Batik Techniques for Beginners at The Studio, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, Sunday 3 July 2011, 10am – 5pm
A one day workshop introducing basic and contemporary processes of batik – an ancient fabric dyeing and decorating technique where hot wax is used as a resist on cloth.
Fee: E75 – including all materials used during the day
For availability and bookings please contact Tunde: 087 2543362

21st Century Irish Craft Exhibition - The National Museum of Ireland's collection of Irish contemporary craft on display at the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7, from 8 June to 08 December 2011

Mary from QueenofCuffs and I Huggleknits will be at the Dancing Buffalo Art + Craft Fair at Spawell Dublin next Sunday 17 June from 12 to 5. Mary will have a selection of her wonderful cuffs and other crafted items and, as well as my Tiny Chuus, Baby Cards, Knit Kits and knitting needles, I will be offering a large range of craft books and magazines at a "never to be repeated" price. It would be great to see you there......

Thats about it for this week.
As always, keep the information coming in.
Cheers,
Mo
Huggleknits

Fab Five on Friday

2011-06-10T16:09:00.000+01:00

Soft... feminine... pale... pretty... warm... delicate... simple... heavenly

Featured items:
1. Cream Vintage Button Shoe Clips, from TheBowMakers
2. Cream Silk Hairbow with Cream Birdcage Veil, from WhateverGetsYouTrue
3. Time Piece, Crocheted Wall Clock, from HeliCreations
4. Bonzie Ethereal Couture Cape, from bonzie
5. Irish Cream Shawlette, from HuggleKnits

Chosen by Beth of magpieandbutton.
As always, if you would like to suggest or curate a Fab Five on Friday of your very own, just send me an Etsy convo :)