Sponsor Spotlight: Midnight Snack

We are so happy to have Midnight Snack as a sponsor for the 2014 Jingle Bash. Christina's mouthwatering pieces will bring a smile to your face. And they might make you a little hungry too.


Although you won't find Midnight Snack goodies at this bash, you may meet Christina at the bash. Say hello! The plushes from Midnight Snack are works of art so we know you're going to love browsing Christina's shop. You can also enjoy a little Midnight Snack on Facebook and Twitter.



Yony's playlist helps us ring in the Jingle Bash

The Jingle Bash is indoors this year so don't worry about this wintry weather ruining your holiday shopping. We don't know about you, but this weather has us thinking thoughts of twinkling lights and hot cocoa. Etsy Dallas' social media expert, Yony, put together a Christmassy playlist to share. We think you're going to enjoy it.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/YLKphotography

We also had a little Q&A session with Yony about the season...

Q: What is your favorite thing about the holiday season?
A: Firstly, I love the cold. Secondly, I love everything else about the holidays. Everything else begins and ends with family and loved ones.

Q: Do you have any special traditions?
A: I love Christmas ornaments and have bought an ornament on every trip I have taken since geting married in 1996. Since having children, I have bought ornaments for them each year so that when they get married, they will each have a set of ornaments to take with them that have been with them since they were born.

Q: Have you started holiday shopping?
A: Yes, I actually started my shopping in September when I used a coupon code to get a great deal on a custom portrait drawing by Rob Polivka on Etsy. It's a gift for my daughter. That's it, though.

Q: How did you choose the songs for your playlist?
A: It wasn't that difficult to choose the songs for this playlist because I just threw in what I thought would make a decent mix with a flow that made some sense. I like variety, as my music taste isn't so much "one trick pony," so you will hear a few different sounds. I think I was feeling kind of mellow when I made it.

This has been Yony's first year on our leadership team. We think she's awesome! She says the Jingle Bash is going to be awesome too. "I have to say that I had no idea how much work the leadership team put into the planning of these shows," she said. "They who have taken up the torch for the past few years are simply amazing and I feel, in a way, that this show will be that validation and fruition of all of the work that they have put into making Etsy Dallas what it is today."

Gather your friends and family Saturday, November 15, 2014, and come check out all the Jingle Bash has to offer. "It's just going to be a lot of fun," Yony said. We couldn't agree more!

Sponsor Spotlight: Regal Cottage

Are you ready to take a royal adventure? Regal Cottage will deliver. Regina's beautiful toys are the perfect way to delight a child this holiday season. And parents will love you for choosing from a maker who uses certified organic cotton, eco-felt and vintage fabrics.


We are over the moon to have Regal Cottage as a sponsor for the Jingle Bash. Regina's sweet handmade toys are both classic and modern. She has lovingly created perfect items for young ones. (She's an expert on children! She has four.)


We adore Regal Cottage. "I love knowing that my toys will bring joy to children and their families while also helping to repair the world," Regina said.

 
Be sure to stop by Regina's booth at the Jingle Bash November 15, 2014. We are sure you will find something to love. Want to see more? You can follow Regal Cottage on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Sponsor Spotlight: DFW Child



Etsy Dallas is so excited to welcome back DFW Child as a Jingle Bash sponsor. We all know it's the go-to magazine for families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. You can find DallasChild, FortWorthChild and NorthTexasChild online and in print. Each monthly publication focuses on a region of DFW and keeps readers updated on what is happening.

The award-winning magazines cover all areas of parenting – from prenatal care through adolescence. It's also free, which makes it perfect for any budget. They also publish special resources Thrive and DallasChildBaby. Thrive is a quarterly publication for local families living with learning differences and special needs. DallasChildBaby is biannual and focuses on new and expecting parents with specailized resources specifically targeted to first-time parents.

Be sure to check out their Contests page (hint hint!!) for a chance at some awesome prizes. Looking for some fun activities for the family? Check out their Things To Do page. They have you covered!

Need more? Follow them on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for even more great info. Be sure to check out their table and pick up a copy of the magazine at the Jingle Bash 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. November 15, 2014.

Sponsor Spotlight: Freckled Chicken

Sugar and spice and everything nice, that's what Freckled Chicken is made of. And we love it! Holly's adorable handmade pieces are sure to bring a smile to little girls this holiday season. We are so happy to have Holly as a sponsor of the Jingle Bash this year.


 
Holly earned a degree in fashion and spent much of her career focused on grownup clothes. Then she began making clothing for her daughter and something magical hatched. “I have to say children’s wear is a lot more fun,” she said. Looking for something specific? Holly offers custom pieces too.

 
You can shop the Freckled Chicken booth at the Jingle Bash 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 15, 2014. And you can browse some of her lovely creations on Instagram and Facebook.

Sponsor Spotlight: K8made

We are thrilled to have Kate of K8made as a sponsor of the 2014 Jingle Bash. The holidays are almost here, and we know lots of ladies who would love to find one of Kate's beautiful pieces under the tree.
 
 
K8made bags are sold in boutiques across the country and are especially popular for bridal parties and brides. 

She is also a big supporter of independent artists. She loves to buy handmade when shopping for gifts for friends and family. “When you buy handmade, you’re guaranteed to get a unique product that was made with care and purpose,” Kate said. 
 
 
We couldn’t agree more. You can follow K8made on Instagram and Twitter for behind-the-scenes scoops on Kate's upcoming projects. And be sure to visit the K8made booth at the Jingle Bash on November 15, 2014.

Gift Guide: A Few of My Favorite Things...

The Jingle Bash is the perfect place to find a few favorite things from talented artisans that are perfect for giving or receiving. *hint, hint*


Organic Hot and Cold Pack by Regal Cottage

Original Canvas Fine Art Painting 1 painting a day series by Liz Wiley: 



Selections by Kathy from Kathleen Care Jewelry who will also be at the Jingle Bash. 

Sponsor Spotlight: YLK Photography

Yony is a photographer with a keen eye and an Etsy Dallas member. We love her work. You will too. We are truly honored to have YLK Photography as a sponsor for the Jingle Bash coming up Saturday, November 15, 2014.


Yony specializes in lifestyle and portrait photography. The mesmerizing pieces she creates conjure feelings both nostalgic and timeless.


Be sure to check out her shop. And you can also follow YLK Photography on Instagram and like it Facebook to see more of Yony's work.

Help out at the Jingle Bash!

Want to spend a Saturday with some of the most creative and fun people in Dallas? Want to help add that extra touch of magic that makes the Jingle Bash the best Shop+Party+Art+Craft show around? We would love to meet you!




Etsy Dallas is on the search for volunteers for the highly anticipated Jingle Bash. Come hang out with some awesome and fun people at Gilley's. The Bash happens there from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, November 15. We will need volunteers for the following shifts: 
  • 9 a.m. to Noon
  • Noon to 3 p.m.
  • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  • 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Wondering what Jingle Bash volunteers do?


Well, they help out in lots of fun ways:
*You know those pretty decorations at the show? Volunteers help the Deco Squad put everything in its place just so. 
*And what about those coveted Bash Bags that people stand in line for hours to get? Volunteers help hand out those babies which means they get the first peak at what's inside. 
*Also, volunteers lend a hand at the Photo Booth helping visitors dress silly and pose for the camera with our crafty photo props. 
*Volunteers also relieve vendors when they need to take a break so they don't get even a tad bit grumpy after a long day of selling their crafty wares. 
*And, volunteers help shoppers get their craft on at the Make&Take Table. 

Sign up to volunteer for a few hours. We would be super-excited to have you on board and make this the very best Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash ever!

The Jingle Bash: Call for Artists!

Awesome makers, crafters, and artists, we are looking for you to join us as we produce an even bigger and better Jingle Bash! 
We will be returning to the South Side Event Center at Gilley's Dallas, a world-class entertainment venue that is a perfect fit for our biggest Shop + Party + Art + Craft event of the year.
The Jingle Bash is a premier handmade shopping event and party that will showcase the finest in handmade apparel, bags, jewelry, home décor, accessories, art, pottery and more! 
Help us make the 2014 Jingle Bash the greatest yet! Applications are open until September 8th, so don't delay!

Artist Info and Applications 

Etsy Dallas kicks off Crafts for Crayons to benefit Girls Inc.




Etsy Dallas is excited to announce what we hope will become an annual event to benefit Girls Incorporated of Metropolitan Dallas. We have some fun make-and-take crafts planned, and we are collecting donated school and art supplies (or cash). All donations go to Girls Inc.

 
Did you know?
  • 1 in 3 children in Dallas cannot afford basic school supplies
  • Across the country teachers spend $500 each year out of their own pockets to buy school supplies for their students
  • Back-to-school time is very stressful for many families who cannot afford school supplies
  • You can help
The Crafts for Crayons event is scheduled for 1-5 p.m. August 30, 2014, at NorthPark Center. Find us between Nordstrom and Macy's in the NorthCourt. We hope to see you there!

DIY: patriotic pinwheels for a sparkly Fourth of July

We've got something festive and sparkly just in time for your Fourth of July. Katrina of Ma Joie Press put together this great DIY. These make great party favors and decorations. Katrina added some to a bouquet of flowers for a holiday centerpiece, and it's adorable. Have a fun, safe and crafty Fourth!


1. What you need: 4.25" cardstock or scrapbook patterned paper squares, flat tacks, chopsticks, scissors, hot glue gun, hole punch, paint brush, glitter, and Elmer's glue.

If you love the paper design in the photos, Katrina was kind enough to share! Here is a letter-size PDF for easy printing. Print one side, then turn it over and print the back.

2. Cut from each corner to about two-thirds to the center of the square.

3. Put a dot of hot glue in the center of the square, and fold a point to the center. Continue dotting the glue and folding until you have a pinwheel.

4. Use your hole punch to make a hole in the center of the pinwheel, right through the dried hot glue.

5. Paint the edges of the pinwheel with Elmer's glue. Add glitter.

6. After the glue is dry, use a tack to secure the pinwheel to a chopstick. Careful not to push it in too tightly or the pinwheel won't spin.

Enjoy!

Studio Snapshots: Liz Wiley


It’s time for another behind-the-scenes look at an Etsy Dallas studio. This time we have a special Q&A with Liz Wiley as well as a look at her workspace. 

 
What mediums do you work with?
I make paintings on canvas using oil and acrylic. I used to work only with oils, then I started experimenting with acrylic paints for my “1 painting a day series” paintings, because I needed them to dry fast. Now that’s about all I use unless a customer requests I use oil paints.  
How is your workspace set up now?
My studio is located in a large commercial space. The front wall is ceiling to floor windows. I love all the light. Sometimes I don’t even turn on the lights. 

I have a 4' x 10' steel table in the middle of my room that I had made to work on. There is a shelf for baskets with tools and a rod to hang rolled canvas. In the corner I have a shelving system to hold all my paints. I keep brushes and tools on the top. 

I have a small office space in the back. There is a desk for my computer, book case and three idea boards. Plants everywhere. I don’t usually have the best luck with plants, but they are doing OK so far.

How is it different from when you started?
I started working in the garage at our house. It was hot, cramped and not very inspiring. The biggest difference is the amount of work that I am able to accomplish in my studio v. the garage (where there were too many distractions). I am also able to create larger paintings. It’s so inspiring to have a dedicated space to work.  

What is your favorite thing about your workspace?
I just love having my own space to work. I love that I can leave my works in progress out and not worry about it being in the way or getting touched by my little kids.

How to set up a craft show booth like a pro (part two)

Do you ever wonder what goes into prepping for those craft shows you visit? Have you been thinking about selling your work? We asked Jenny and Sabrina of The Pig and The Peacock for their expert advice on being a vendor. And they delivered! Check out their earlier post if you haven't already …


Prep for Doing Business
One or two weeks before the show, gather everything you need to do business and ring up transactions. Pens, calculators, invoice/receipt books, shopping bags, are must-haves.

Make a bank run to get change – think about your price points and plan your change based on that. If you take credit card payments via Square or any other device or app, make sure they are in working order and that you remember passwords for apps. Another thing we do is create a cheat sheet of all of our items pricing with tax. At the bottom we have every price point from $1-$100 with tax added for quick reference.

Prepare for the Day
Bring bottled water or soda and snacks even if there will be food/drinks on site. You may be too busy to take a break! Be sure to snack when you can so you don't run out of energy toward the end of the day. It's also great if you can recruit friends to help, whether it is to drop off lunch, give you a break or support.

Prepare for the Unexpected
Know that no matter how much planning you do, you can't plan for everything, but you can try your best to be prepared so if the unexpected does happen, you have it covered. We always bring a disaster kit. In this kit, along with our pens and invoice books, we keep the following:
  • Stapler
  • Scotch tape
  • Duct tape 
  • Packing tape (no joke we bring 3 kinds of tape with us and have used them all!)
  • Kleenex and napkins
  • Safety pins
  • Advil (you will be glad you had it)
  • Calculator
  • A multi-use tool
  • Lighter
  • Power strip
  • Extension cords
  • Bungee cords
  • Band-Aids
  • Purell
  • Sharpies
  • Blank index cards (for ad-hoc signage)
  • Business cards
  • Notebook – we like to take notes of things we forgot or wish we had and items customers asked for that we currently don't make
  • We also bring a hand truck and a thick floor mat to stand on

Have Fun Selling
The best part of being at a craft show is being able to talk with your shoppers, and tell them about your process and your passion for your craft. Have fun selling and they will have fun shopping.

If you are on the shy side, think about an opening line to break the ice – perhaps something that makes your items special or what inspired you to make it. Instead of answering questions with a yes or no, take advantage of the opportunity to tell people more about the item too. Even a simple hi and a smile will go a long way to make people feel welcome. We like to chat with people and ask them how they are enjoying the event as a whole, and find out what cool things they have seen at other booths. 

How to set up a craft show booth like a pro (part one)


Do you ever wonder what goes into prepping for those craft shows you visit? Have you been thinking about selling your work? We asked Jenny and Sabrina of The Pig and The Peacock for their expert advice on being a vendor. And they delivered! Check back soon for part two …

https://www.flickr.com/photos/edpresspics/14061342030/

Craft shows are a great opportunity to boost sales and meet your customers face to face so you can show them what you are all about. In order for you and your shoppers to have the best experience possible, you need to plan ahead and prepare.

Make Enough Product
First and foremost you need product – and plenty of it. You should aim to still have a relatively full display toward the end of the show. If your booth looks empty, you might get passed by. Depending on your price points, you should expect to sell 1/4 to 1/3 of the inventory you bring. The best way to be prepared is to make a production schedule and try to stick to it. Then bring everything to the show, even if you aren't sure you will sell it.

Lay Out Your Booth Space and Displays
About three weeks before the show, plan your booth space. Decide what your table layout will be, how your displays will be set up and where chairs and product storage will go but still be easily accessible. Tape off the booth space on the floor or driveway and be sure everything fits. Once you have a "floor plan," decide how your goods will be displayed.

You want to be sure your displays hold enough product, are easily shop-able, and add height and interest to your booth. Anything can be used as a display, from old crates and quirky vintage suitcases to simple metal hanging racks or risers. Bring tablecloths for your tables to create a visually appealing display that allows you to hide stuff under the table. Remember to consider lighting needs. Check out this Flickr Craft Show Group for ideas.

Create Signage
On average, a customer will ask the price of items only twice before they feel uncomfortable asking again. Put them at ease by creating signage or putting price tags on all of your items. Make sure the sign is easy for them to spot and big enough to read from a distance. Also be sure you have business cards handy and in a place that is easy for shoppers to find. 

Pretty up your pics at the Etsy Craft Party


It’s time for the annual Etsy Craft Party and you’re invited! Etsy Dallas and City Craft are hosting a local gathering. Come join us for snacks, drinks and photo crafts. This free event includes three craft projects.

Choose your own project:
1) embroidering directly onto photographs or photocopies of photos;
2) embroidering on photos that have been printed onto fabric (we have two photos, courtesy of our amazing and talented Yony of YLK Photography, on fabric for you to choose from: blue bonnets and Big Tex);
3) and especially for kids: making photo collages with cropped photos, scrapbook paper, etc.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own photos to use for the projects. We will have some supplies for those who don't bring photos. And be sure to get your photo taken in the photo booth too.

In addition to the photo crafts, City Craft is opening their sewing machines to those who may want to try sewing. How amazing is that?!? It's going to be a great night. We can't wait to see what you create. Save the date!

Time: 7 - 9 p.m.
Date: Friday, June 6, 2014
Place: City Craft
2104 Irving Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207

Etsy Dallas on The Broadcast: DIY Repurposing Picture Frames

Karen from Pinwheel Fair and Kathy from Kathleen Care Jewelry joined the hosts of The Broadcast to show off beautiful ways to recycle your old picture frames. 


Karen makes all kinds of gorgeous chalkboards, pushpins, and pillows in her Etsy shop. We are so happy she shared some of her talent and creative skills with us on the show today and gave us all the details for her Framed Magnet Board. 
Framed Magnet Board:

Supplies:
- Frame
- Sheet metal & tin snips (Home Depot or Loews)
- Ruler & sharpie
- Spray Paint
- Decorative paper or fabric
- Mod Podge & sponge brush
- Foam core
- Duck tape
- Utility knife & cutting mat
- Magnets
1. Remove glass, frame backing and spray paint the frame the color of choice - for best adhesion, lightly sand and prime first.
2. Measure inside of frame from the back - this will be your sheet metal dimensions. If your frame has a glass insert, simply use it as
an easy template to draw onto your sheet metal. Be careful - the sides will be SHARP!
3. "Paint" a thin layer of Mod Podge on to your sheet metal insert and smooth out your decorative paper/fabric carefully removing any air bubbles.  (Don't worry about the overage yet...)
4. Let dry overnight.
5. Cut off paper or fabric edges using your utility knife & a cutting mat to protect work surfaces. 
6. Carefully place your steel insert back into your frame.
7. Cut layers of foam core board to fit, until the frame back is level to the frame.
8. Seal all edges with your duck tape to complete!
Kathy from Kathleen Care Jewelry designs and hand crafts beautiful jewelry. How lovely it would be to make one or two of her display boards to organize all of your jewelry. Here's all the details Kathy shared with us:

Jewelry Display from a Picture Frame

Jewelry Display Board: 

Supplies:
- Fabric
- Frame
- Spray Paint
- Cotton batting
- Straight Pins
- Pearl Pins
- Duct or heavy duty tape 
- Double sided tape or glue dots

1. Pick a frame large enough to display your jewelry, hair bows, etc, and make sure the fabric you use extends at least 2 inches on each side.
2. Remove glass, frame backing and spray paint the frame the color of choice
3. Adhere cotton batting to the card board back of your frame. I use either glue dots or double sided tape, cutting off any excess batting.
4. Tautly pull the fabric over your frame backing and secure with either duct tape or framing tape (some people even like to use a heavy duty stapler)
5. Put newly covered frame cardboard back in the frame without the glass.
Done!

See Karen and Kathy in action on The Broadcast!