Unique by Karlee

Card Trick is not impossible

2010-12-30T15:20:00.002-06:00

(This post is dedicated to my friend, Franni, who gets high blood pressure and wants to cry at the mere mention of the Card Trick quilt block)

The Card Trick block is something that has mystified me for eons. It isn't that I don't understand how to put one together and have it look the way it is supposed to, it's that I can't understand how I seem to be one of four people on the planet who have figured it out.

Franni tells me the instructions she has seen in the past were confusing and she did not understand them. Well Franni, those who can not explain it simply, do not understand it well enough. Here is my attempt to show everyone how to make the Card Trick without needing massive doses of anti-anxiety meds when they are finished.

You will need:

Scissors
Seam ripper (just in case)
Rotary cutter (if you do not have one, do NOT attempt the Card Trick block. Your purchase will be well worth it, so I highly suggest investing. I can't live without mine.)
Cutting mat
Omnigrid ruler 9.5 x 9.5 (I also recommend the 6.5 x 6.5 as well as the 5 x 24)
Sewing machine
Steam iron and appropriate amounts of water to make the steam (You do not want to know how many times I thought my iron was broken because it was not steaming, and my silly butt had not filled it with water.)
Ironing board
Beverage of choice (I prefer a little coffee with my cream and sugar)
Catchy tunes

If you do not know what an Omnigrid ruler is, or why you so desperately need one, the short version is it is a clear ruler with bright yellow markings, a 45 degree line, and if you plan on putting any serious effort into quilting, it will be your best friend. You can see through it, so it makes it easy to line up edges for cutting and trimming. With the Card Trick block, you will find the 45 degree line the best invention since dirt. I promise to explain as we go through this.

(My Omnigrid and rotary cutter)

A note about rotary cutters: USE A SHARP, UN-NICKED BLADE! A nick in the blade will annoy you to no end, and you will press harder when you cut to force it to cut despite the nick. This will make your cutting mat cry. A dull blade is much, much, much more dangerous than a sharp blade. The expense of a new blade is far less than a trip to the emergency room for stitches. Keep the blade retracted when you aren't actively cutting.

On with the show.

First, you need to decide how big your block is going to be. I picked 12 x 12 because I'm making a king size quilt and did not want to have a million teeny blocks to sew. If you are doing a baby quilt, you may want a six inch block, or an eight inch block. Your quilt, your rules. Remember that.

Okay, you have your size, but your color options are limitless. You can have each "card" a different color or shade, like I did. You can have two colors and alternate them, or three colors. Three colors looks neat, especially if you are mixing the card trick with an alternate block such as the four patch. You could make the opposite cards the same color as one of the colors on the four patch, and the other two cards different from each other. Don't forget a consistent "background" color! You need something to go around the cards. I like to use solids for background colors so you are drawn to the cards, but your mileage may vary.

Cut your squares. By now you have decided how big you want your block. Mine is 12.5 x 12.5. It will be 12 x 12 when it's in the quilt, but standing alone, it is bigger. Seam allowances. At the end of this post I will give you a cutting guide for the block, for blocks from six inches (finished) to 12 inches (finished). We will skip that fancy stuff for now, because you are reading this and not trying to cut or sew, right now. You can print this for your own reference, or email me (karlee at uniquebykarlee dot com) and I can send you a .pdf with pictures. Free. I can not help you with the total yardage you will need for your quilt. I can give you tips on how to figure it up, but doing it for you? I'm sorry, I only have two brain cells and figuring your yardage might just implode both of them. Not fun.

Once you have cut and piled your different colors, you'll have a mess like this:

Woah, Karlee! Back up!! How do I cut good triangles? This thing is LOADED with triangles!!!
-weeps-

Oh. Right. Sorry.

You have your square. Cut your square on the diagonal. Sounds easy, but remember the 45 degree angle on your Omnigrid? Let it help you.

(Do you see the 45 degree line going from the middle top to lower left? Line that up with the edge of your fabric after you turned it on point. Line up the edge of the ruler with the top and bottom points for additional help, cut.)

(Repeat with the half triangle, when necessary)

Off to the ironing board we go.

A few words about ironing: Iron before you cut. Iron between sewing bits together. Iron your seams to the dark side, not toward the light, not open, iron to the dark side. Why the dark side? They have cookies. No, just kidding. If you iron to the light side, it will show through, especially if you are using white like I am. Iron to the dark and you can't see it. The only time you are ironing too much is when you scorch your fabric; then you've gone too far. If it isn't scorched, you haven't ironed too much.

I've seen people get so lost when putting a block together, it only makes sense to lay it out and sew in small bits. Lay it out, in a grid. You have nine mini-blocks in this one block, so lay out the mini-blocks in a grid with a little bit of a gap between them. Like this:

("But Karlee, it looks bad! Some of the bits are bigger than others and, and, and, and....." Yes. I know. It -needs- to be like this. Do NOT trim down what you think is too much. I will show you why, shortly.)

Look at your grid, carefully. You now see the mini-blocks, right? Start sewing them, one by one, and putting them back in their place on your grid. Keep your ironing board near your sewing machine unless you feel the extra exercise is necessary, then put it on the other side of the house.

You may sew them in whatever order you please, but I start in the upper right corner and work right to left, top to bottom. The first block I sewed was the upper right, and after I sewed, I ironed. I ironed the seam to the dark side.

The three piece mini-blocks really aren't that hard. Sew the two little pieces first, then open them and sew to the big one. Iron the seams, to the dark side. If you sew carefully, you can coax the seam of the two little pieces to the dark side as it is going through the machine. This will encourage that seam to lay toward the dark as you iron it.

The center mini-block gives the most problems for most people. It has points. People like points to match up. People cry, cuss, and scream when the points do not match up. Here is how to make it EASY. I promise. Follow the pictures.

First, fold half the block in on itself, like this:

(I pushed the top ones back a bit so you can see it better. Match up your edges when you sew.)

Sew the two inside seams to make two big triangles, but DO NOT SEW THE TWO BIG ONES. Go iron. But. I want you to iron it a special way, to make lining up the points EASY.

Look carefully. First, I laid the blocks back in the grid the way they were supposed to be, and then flipped them upside down laterally. I then ironed one seam to the left, and one to the right.

Ironing them in two different directions does a couple different things.
1. It makes butting up the points EASY.
2. It cuts down on the bulk at the exact center of the block.
3. By cutting down the bulk, it will lay flat. The flatter it lays, the prettier it is.

Here is a picture of the seams butting up so the points will be perfect. With one seam going one way, and the other going...well, the other...you can -feel- when they match up exactly.

Sew down the long side, and iron the seam whichever way you please. It does not matter on this one, unless you are using a light color on one of the blocks. In that case...iron to the dark.

(Perfection! Without tears!!)

Fast forward, all nine of your mini-blocks are sewed, and you need another cup of coffee. I know you are eager to now sew the little teeny blocks into your massive masterpiece, but DON'T!!!! STOP!!!!

No really. Don't. There is work to be done.

Years ago, I was in a quilt guild, and one of the ladies was 97 years old, and just a gem of a quilter. She had learned to quilt from her childhood best friend's mother. An Amish woman. Well, Flossie gave me a tidbit of information that I have carried with me since I met her, and it was the best, most important, most *valuable* thing, ever.

Square it.

Take your nine little mini-blocks back to your cutting mat and square them up before you do anything else.

First of all, you have little tag things hanging off each corner of the mini-block. This adds unnecessary bulk to your finished block. It also looks sloppy.

Squaring up isn't as hard as it sounds, and that 1/16th of an inch, or even the dust you shave off, can make all the difference in the world. I promise.

Take one of the two-piece mini-blocks, first. Line up the 45 degree line on your Omnigrid with the seam.

Line up the edges where they need to be. For this block, take the finished size and divide by three, then add a half inch. For me that is 4.5 inches. My mini block, when trimmed, should be exactly 4.5 inches by 4.5 inches. See the bits hanging off? Trim them. If you have to take a little bit off of all four sides, THAT IS OKAY. I'm giving you permission to cut off of all four sides to square your block. (Some people need this permission. You now have it.)

I took a close up for your benefit, and because this part is very important.

Where you have two fabrics coming together at the seam, make sure they join at the exact corner. If they are not going to join up at the exact corner, slide your Omnigrid around until they DO. This applies for all three types of mini-blocks.

(For reference...this is what I took off two sides of that mini. This much coming off CAN make a difference if you DON'T remove it. I promise.)

Three piece mini. It *looks* wonky on that white side, doesn't it? It is. I'll fix it by squaring it up. Remember: Keep the seam in the exact corner, even if you have to slide the Omnigrid around. This one had bits taken off all four sides to get it to perfection.

You get the idea. It is also okay to do this to the four piece block in the center. Cut, turn, cut, turn, as many times as you need to get it square and get the seams exactly in the corners.

Iron those mini-blocks again. They may have gotten rumpled when you were cutting.

Lay them back in the grid again.

Do you see the difference after you squared them up? No? Have a look at the "before".

WOW. What a difference, huh?

NOW you can sew the mini-blocks into strips. I work top to bottom.

A few things before you get started. Because I have a white background, I ironed away from it. This means SOME of the corners are not going to have one seam going one way and the other seam going the other. That's OKAY. Don't go trying to fix it...just work with it.

Sew your first three mini-blocks together and STOP. You need to iron, AGAIN, BUT.

Butbutbut. This next part is going to HELP you match up the rest of those points.

DO NOT go ironing willy-nilly.
DO NOT iron those two seams in the SAME direction.

No, no, no. Iron them in the opposite direction. On the top strip, I iron them both to the center block. On the middle strip, I iron them away from the center block. On the bottom strip, I iron them to the center. They are consistent, I can feel where they need to meet, and all is right and happy in the world.

But Karlee!!!! If I iron the top to the left, and the middle to the right, and the bottom to the left...

Uh huh. That works too, but it actually looks neater on the back doing it opposites instead of sames.

Get the three strips finished, then sew them together, using the same method of butting up the seams as before. You will find that since you squared everything up before you started this, all your seams match without bunching and your corners match properly.

In, out, in, then when you are done putting the strips together, iron the two last seams to the middle.

Now, flip it over. Look at your Card Trick.

Perfection!!!

Perfect point...

Perfect point...

Perfect point. This last one is on the edge, and not in the middle. Once it has been sewn into the quilt, it should meet up with the edge of the next block or the border.

Congratulations! You've made a Card Trick block while managing to keep your sanity.

Now for the sizes of the squares you will need for various size blocks.

First, there are two different triangles. Triangle A and Triangle B. Refer to the picture to see where what goes.

"A" Is a half square
"B" Is a quarter square

Cut as many of these pieces as you need from your various fabrics.

For a six inch block: For "A" you need to cut a square 2 7/8 x 2 7/8. For "B" you need 3 1/4 x 3 1/4.

For a seven inch block: For "A" you need a 3 1/8 x 3 1/8. For "B" you need 3 1/2 x 3 1/2.

For an eight inch block: For "A" you need a 3 1/2 x 3 1/2. For "B" you need 3 7/8 x 3 7/8.

For a nine inch block: For "A" you need 3 7/8 x 3 7/8. For "B" you need 4 1/4 x 4 1/4.

For a 10 inch block: For "A" you need 4 1/8 x 4 1/8. For "B" you need 4 1/2 x 4 1/2.

For an 11 inch block: For "A" you need 4 1/2 x 4 1/2. For "B" you need 4 7/8 x 4 7/8.

For a 12 inch block: For "A" you need 4 7/8 x 4 7/8. For "B" you need 5 1/4 x 5 1/4.

Happy sewing! Remember, if you need me, I'm only an email away.

Coffee Coozies

2010-06-26T07:09:00.002-05:00

I get a lot of questions about the coffee coozie, and I decided to answer the most common ones here.

1. What is it?
It is a handy little doo-dad that wraps around your favorite coffee mug. How many times have you reached in your microwave for a hot, steaming cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and burned your fingers? I did it one too many times, and thus the Coffee Coozie was born.

2. How does it work? Won't I get a mouthful of fabric instead of a mouthful of my beverage?
Not if you put it on your cup, properly.

If you lay your Coffee Coozie flat on the table or counter, you will notice the tabs are slightly closer to one side than the other. This is the "top" of your Coffee Coozie.

If you look carefully under the handle, you will see how the tabs are slightly closer to the top than the bottom.

You want to fasten the tabs under the handle for maximum effect for both coverage for your hands as well as showing off your own personal style.

The tabs are thin enough that it should not hinder your ability to use the handle of your mug if you prefer.

3. I like to hold a hot cup of coffee in the winter to warm my hands, will the Coffee Coozie stop all the heat?
No. The Coffee Coozie still allows heat to get through, it just prevents you from burning your hands.

4. Won't it slip off?
Not if you have it pulled taut around your cup. If it is loose, it may slip, but the way it is designed it can be pulled tightly around your cup so it will not slip off. I use industrial hook and loop tape for maximum grip, as well as put two small ribbons of grippy stuff on the back so it won't slide off when you are holding it.

5. I've seen similar things elsewhere...talk to me about them.
They are poor imitations. They are also stealing my copyrighted pattern and changing it just enough so they think they are getting around the copyright infringement laws. If I thought they were a threat, I would pursue legal action, however, I can't be bothered. It won't take people long to find the superior product.

Those knockoffs do not have the rounded corners that mine have, and from the pictures I've seen, are more of a hassle than a help.

6. So what do I do when I get my Coffee Coozie dirty?
I'm a messy coffee drinker too, especially at 5 in the morning, blurry eyed, and doing good to make sure I add the grounds to the hot water to get my coffee. Spills happen.

Put your Coffee Coozie in your washer. Wash it like you would anything else, but do not add bleach. They are *not* to be bleached. Ever. You've been warned, don't try to sue me for it. Do not bleach.

After your Coffee Coozie has made a trip through your washer, toss it in the dryer. No need to air dry flat unless you want to. (This is why it is a good idea to buy more than one!)

7. Okay, I want some now. Where can I get them?
You can purchase them from http://www.artfire.com/users/UniquebyKarlee. I am currently building stock for an upcoming craft fair and do not have many listed on my ArtFire site. I do, however, have plenty to go around. If you do not see what you are looking for, contact me there, leave a comment here, or email me at karlee (at) uniquebykarlee (dot) com with your request.

I am more than happy to show you my collection of fabrics as well as make you a single coozie (no minimum purchase required) to get your collection started.

They make great gifts for the coffee, tea, and hot chocolate drinkers in your life, and at $5, won't break the bank. Remember: if you buy four, you get one free!

Custom orders

2010-02-24T08:19:00.002-06:00

A month or so ago, I was approached by a friend of mine at church. She wanted a couple aprons, custom made.

She is on the short side, and most aprons are too long for her, and hang too far down her chest. I took measurements, she brought me the fabric, and we now have two custom aprons. With the left over fabric we are going to make placemats, pictures of those soon to follow.

Ongoing bead sale!

2009-09-08T08:23:00.002-05:00

Good morning followers!

I've been having a bead sale, and it will continue until my stock is completely sold out. I am continuing to add new beads to my studio, including some bead sets.

All beads are made from polymer clay which has been oven baked. Most have been sanded and finished with Future floor wax. There are a few exceptions which have been left "raw" for the sake of asthetics. Sanding is a catch 22 at times, you never know what you are going to wind up with after you sand. Sometimes I will get a bead that is so striking without being sanded that I leave it the way it is.

Here are a few of the remaining beads. They are all buy one get one at equal or lesser value free, and in some cases, it can be quite a steal!

11 piece bead set - $7.00 + shipping:

Red hat colors, 3 bead set - $2.00 + shipping:

Large Lavendar and Blue Pearl heart - $3.00 + shipping:

Small red and pink marbled bead - $1.00 + shipping:

Green polymer clay bead set - $1.00 + shipping:

Layered butterfly pendant - $4.00 + shipping:

Large lavendar and blue pearl marble pendant - $3.00 + shipping:

I will get the rest of the beads listed in my ArtFire studio today, and get another blog post up for you to see.

Happy shopping!
Karlee

New listings!

2009-09-07T11:35:00.002-05:00

I know I have been queen of the procrastinators lately, but life has been really busy.

I took pictures and listed 7 new items today! 3 new magnets, 3 new beads, and an altoid tin.

You may click the picture to see the listing and purchase. Remember, you do not need an account with ArtFire to purchase.

Huge polymer clay magnet:

Bottle cap magnet:

Butterfly and hearts magnet:

Marbled heart pendant:

Mirror image heart pendant:

Butterfly Pendant:

Rose theme altoid tin:

Facebook Contest!

2009-09-05T09:52:00.004-05:00

I want to get as many fans as I can, and get the word out about my Coffee Coozies!

Use the link to your right to see my facebook page! ---------------->

Grand Prize: Two coozies of your choice! If I don't have one you like already made, please visit my fabric pages to pick yours!

How it works:

Refer people on your facebook friends list.
Either have them post on my wall "_____ referred me!"
or
You post who you referred and who fanned me.

Person with the highest number of referrals by 1 October, gets two coozies of their choice.

If they (and/or you) have your own fan page, PLEASE link it so I can fan you back.

If you become a fan without a referral, it still counts, and just post that you were referred by my blog.

Winner (or winners in the event of a tie) will be notified through facebook. I will need a mailiing address so I can mail your coozies. I will ship internationally and to P.O. boxes.

Happy spamming!
Karlee

Project Wonderful

2009-09-05T09:18:00.004-05:00

My PW boxes are up and running on the website. I'm seeng a little bit of interest, but would like to see more.

There are three types of boxes. Two of them are 125x125 box ads, and the other is a small banner. The ad boxes appear on the most popular pages of the Unique by Karlee site, and two of the ad boxes appear on more than one page to maximize your exposure.

Ad space starts at $0.01/day/USD, and if I manually approve you once, you are automatically approved any time you wish to advertise.

Preference is given to other handmade artisans who sell on ArtFire, Etsy, 1000Markets, etc. I do NOT accept get-rich-quick games (I denied and blocked one of those already), weight loss pills (I've tried a number of them myself, and they don't work), teeth whitening, home refinancing, etc.

My goal is to help further the handmade movement. I am not so desperate for pennies that I accept any ad that comes along, and will be clicking links to see the website that wants to advertise.

I accept animated ads, text ads, and static image ads. If you are interested in advertising with PW and are not graphically inclined, I can design you a static ad for $1, or an animated ad for $2, or reccomend quite a few fabulous digital artists on ArtFire. Sign up with PW is free, advertising isn't.

If you have questions, comments, or want to join the UBK mailing list, please use the form to your right.

Have a fabulous day!!
Karlee

Accidental Stash Enhancement

2009-08-18T13:11:00.003-05:00

No no, not a stash of weed, stash of fabric.

I've discovered that as loving and wonderful the crafty types are, we tend to be rather scatterbrained at times.

I am not immune to this.

Last night I was inspired (and slightly sickened) by the new show on A&E channel..."Hoarders". Hoarding is a mental disorder in which people do not throw away, use, or otherwise get rid of seemingly meaningless things. Some hoards are or include: newspapers, cats, dogs, magazines, craft supplies, clothes, toys, and/or mimentos of loved ones. (The star of last night's show had a problem hoarding food as well as a lot of other stuff. They REALLY focused on the food though.)

I used to be a lot worse at hoarding craft supplies, but two moves ago I downsized a lot of it. I did hang onto the majority of my unused fabric. It was carefully packed away in clear totes and stuffed in the basement.

There it sat, unused and unloved, for more than 3 years. I was going through a depression when we moved, and had no desire, inclination, or space to really get with the program.

By the time I started to come out of my depression, my treasured fabrics had been mostly forgotten, and instead of going through my fabric totes, I went and bought more.

We moved again a few months ago, and I once again found the totes with my precious fabrics, but didn't have the time to go through them.

Lately I've been buying FQ's (fat quarters. They are slightly smaller than quarter yard of fabric, typically 17 inches by 22 inches) to use for my coffee coozies, as well as other bits of fabric that are large enough for me to squeak out one or two coozies. Some of my coozie fabric is left over from other projects, which is why you often find different products that "match" in my ArtFire shop.

Anyway, I've got quite a collection. Most of it is scanned into my computer and on my website. After another mad dash through the stash (poetry in action!) of uncut/unused fabric and newest additions, I had 16 fabrics to cut and scan.

Then I had a light bulb moment.

Remember the aforementioned totes? I did. I also remembered that one of them had 6 or so FQ's in it, visible from the outside (this was a clear tote). I did what any other broke crafter would do, I went to get them so it was 6 less that I had to buy.

I pulled them out and looked at them carefully. I was quite happy I'd found them, and remembered why I had bought them but decided they needed to be used for coozies instead of a gay pride quilt for a friend that I haven't talked to in years.

I saw the corner of some pretty purple flowered fabric, and pulled on it.

Not only did it fall out, but so did a lot of other stuff, so I started digging.

I discovered the light blue dragonfly 1/2 yard I got for a quilt. I looked a little closer and found some fabric that was blue flames on a black background...2.5 yards...then the "vegetable birdhouse" fabric that would be GREAT for placemats (their original intent anyway) and about 9 yards of light yellow fabric to use as backing.

More digging, and out pops this bag.

It was tinted green and had the "write on" area. "Hmm. Must be an old freezer bag," I thought, and peeked inside.

Oh good heavens. My "LOST" FQ collection. As in: the FQ's that I'd been saving and hanging onto. My expensive FQ's. My hoard.

The ones I had bought years upon years ago, at LEAST 4 moves ago - or more. Some of them I KNOW are at least 10 years old. Some were gifts in a FQ exchange for a quilting group. Some were purchased by yours truly...at the quilt shop, where a yard of fabric started out at $9 minimum...10 years ago. As I was rootling through them I kept having to remind myself "I bought these to USE them, not just sit here and LOOK at them!" because I so desperately did not want to cut them. I remembered the TV show last night, and decided they will be cut and turned into coozies. I will keep one coozie from each fabric though, my single coozie I've kept for myself isn't enough for this house.

Including the ones I knew about, this brought the "toted FQ" total to 25. Twenty Five. That equals...a lot of yardage.

I also found a couple yards of velvet, 4 yards of navy blue lace, and another green-tinted gallon size freezer bag full of "charms". If you quilt, you know what charms are. If not, I'll make another blog post about them.

Another prize was the $150 worth of fabric I bought to make a memory quilt with the money my grandfather left me after he died. I'll finish that quilt eventually, but not today.

I was packing that tote up (minus the fabric I held out for coozies), when I spied yet another tote on the garage floor. It was not see-through like the first one, but it was labeled. (Thanks mom...thank you for making me anal-retentive about labeling things) "BIG PIECES" says the sign.

I pop open the tote. Inside, I found...BIG PIECES. I remembered where I got them. One of the quilters (remember the quilting group?) was downsizing. She sent me a gargantuan box of fabric. I paid $10 shipping on it (roughly 7 years ago). At least three pieces of fabric inside were ENTIRE BOLTS. Some fabric was truly awful, some was gorgeous, and some was "eh". ALL of it was name brand, high end, obscenely expensive fabric.

Oh. And 3 yards each of two easter egg print fleece.

I went for a dig-through of that stuff also.

I yanked out a gorgeous burgundy Northcott (2 yards), a really neat floral on tan (5 yards), 3 yards of the white novelty healthcare fabric, and this really unusual bolt. It isn't patterened evenly all over, but rather from side to side. Its this stunning eggplant at one end that fades to almost a brick red on the other, with neat...hell I can't describe it. I'll get a picture. There is absolutely NO information on the selvedge (like there is with the Northcott). Its stunning, to say the least....and there is a LOT of it.

Ok so wow. I'm buried in fabric, and I have to find a way to hide it from my husband.

If he sees it, I will be banned from JoAnn's until I use up at least half.

New magnets, new listings!

2009-08-14T16:18:00.003-05:00

I've been a little busy lately, playing with my clay. My sewing has suffered, but I will fix that tonight.

I listed 4 magnets today, with many more unique polymer clay creations to come in the next few days.

Please click the photo to go to the listing.

Facebook fan page has arrived!

2009-08-07T11:07:00.003-05:00

I took the plunge and made a Facebook fan page. You can visit and become a fan here.

Don't forget to follow me on Twitter!

I have some exciting new things to post (and list on ArtFire) in the next few days.

Keep in mind:

I accept reasonable trades.
I do custom work (it's honestly my favorite!)
ALL of my polymer clay beads are buy one get one at equal or lesser value free (I won't be doing beads in the future, check back in a few days to see what my newest projects are!)
I am donating proceeds from 4 of my favorite Coffee Coozies to a dear friend in need of surgery to save his life and provide assistance for his needed (but not covered by insurance or medicaid) medications. 100% of the net proceeds (minus shipping) go to Larry of ChelseaLynn Designs.
The rest of my Coffee Coozies are buy 4 get one free! If you don't see your favorite color in the current list, just ask! I would be happy to go shopping to find the perfect fabric for you.

Happy Shopping!

Help me decide!

2009-07-26T07:22:00.002-05:00

I love getting input from other people with regards to my products. My favorite guinea pig (so to speak) is my mother. She loves all the free goodies she gets, and (as mothers are by nature) is extremely blunt with her reviews.

Once a product has passed her critique and has recieved a grade of "B" or better (gotta love teachers! You can take her from the classroom, but you can't take the gradebook from her), they either start getting produced for sale, or I turn to you, my buyers.

So here we are, at an impasse. I have decided to make magnets from my polymer clay instead of beads, but I'm a little stuck on where to go with the sewing.

I beg forgiveness, I haven't taken any pictures of these, and my mom's computer is on the fritz again, and her camera doesn't seem to like my computer. I imagine that somewhere in my next posts I will have taken pictures. In the mean time, please use your imagination.

While you are using your imagination, please take a few minutes to vote in the poll. You may select more than one option. I also encourage you to leave a comment (you may do so anonymously).

I am going to be starting a mailing list soon for Unique By Karlee, and until I can find code I like, you will need to email me at karlee (at) uniquebykarlee (dot) com and tell me you want on the list. I plan on sending out mailings once a week highlighting sales and new products. (Please also tell me if you want it in HTML format or plain text with links)

Thanks for helping!!
Karlee

Please help me help my friend!

2009-07-04T08:53:00.003-05:00

Larry Hamm over at Chelsea Lynn Designs on Artfire is a friend of many in the world of handmade, he is also the voice of The Crazy Train on Blockhead Radio. Larry has a fantastic wife Janet, and an 8 year old son Jacob who live with him in Lansing, NC deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Larry is a friend to everyone and just an all around swell guy. He is most definitely the "shirt off your back" kind of friend. Right now, all of Larry´s friends and Blockhead Radio are teaming up to help him out in a tough time.

Larry is a disabled diabetic who currently has lost his health insurance. His medication alone monthly is over $2,000. Larry is not receiving disability, he has not been approved yet. His wife is the only source of income and she doesn´t make enough to cover his medications. Larry´s doctors have given him an outlook of only 18 months to live if he doesn´t receive a $17,000 gastric bypass surgery as soon as possible. Larry and his family need all the help from their family and friends they can get! Jacob and Janet need Larry to hang around here with them as long as he possibly can! All of his friends surely want Larry to stick around too!

All of us at Blockhead Radio are gearing up for the biggest Radiothon you´ll ever be a part of! July 24th at 6pm until July 26th at 6pm, Blockhead Rod will be live on the radio for 48 hours straight raising money for our friend Larry. A silent auction of donated handmade goods will also be going up on the home page of Blockhead Radio with 100% of the proceeds going to Larry.

If you would like to be a part of this wonderful event, please email DeDe Sorensen at: 48forlarry@blockheadradio.com Please donate any handmade items you can for the silent auction have your emails in with your donations by July 22nd. If you would like to donate cash for Larry’s prescriptions and surgery please visit Blockhead Radio July 24th through July 26th. There will be plenty of ways to get your donations in.

Keep listening to Blockhead Radio for fantastic indie music, and how you can help Larry Hamm of Chelsea Lynn Designs.

Larry was the 2nd person to buy coozies from me, and I will be making two coozies from the same fabric that his were made, for his auction.

The fabric he chose was DCU pants my husband had worn in Iraq in 2005. Please tune in for the auction, as there are some really great things for you to buy! You will also be able to get your own "Just Like Larry" coozies!

Hang on Larry, you're on the Crazy Train now, and help is on its way!!!

Public Service Announcement

2009-06-18T10:17:00.002-05:00

I apologize for the lack of crafty news, updates, and spotlights in this post, but this is something we all need to take seriously.

Computer hackers, virii (plural of virus), parasites, keyloggers, autoinstallers, and all kinds of horrible things that can comprimise our systems are out there. Thousands. Keeping up with them all is hard work.

We have firewalls and we have antivirus software. Some of us get them for free, others pay big bucks for our protective software.

(All links will open in a new window)

Before you read any further, please realise that all of the products I am going to list are programs that I run on my system, and the download sites are the exact ones where I have gotten them.

Things like Spybot Search & Destroy and AdAware are fantastic free programs that will help you in your battle to discover, contain, and remove harmful software.

These programs, I've found, do not always completely remove the gunk from your system. The bad programs will often leave registry keys behind, and that can mean bad business. To avoid a lengthy(er) post, I will let you google "registry keys" on your own.

There are three ways to remove these pesky keys. You can manually remove it, but I don't reccomend this unless you are VERY advanced in your IT skills. It is possible to delete a key you REALLY NEED to keep your system running, and if you delete that key, not only will you crash, but you won't be able to recover your HD at all.

I run both of the following programs on my computer, just in case one misses something the other hasn't.

I reccomend two programs to safely remove those keys once the program is deleted. RegscrubXP only works for you if you have WINDOWS XP. If you are still running 2000, 98, ME, Vista, or any operating system other than windows xp, don't bother with this.

RegscrubXP runs through your registry keys and safely removes the deleted/invalid/empty registry keys. It takes a little while to run if you've never done it before or if its been a while since you removed any keys, but it works.

Another one is CCleaner. It used to be called Crap Cleaner, but they changed the name to protect the easily offended.

It does the same as RegscrubXP, but it also goes to your running applications and links them to a directory of "what it is" so you can see if you have any processes going that are harmful. You can also quickly add/remove software through CCleaner without going to start > control panel > add remove software. You can also clean your cookies and cache through here, as well as a few other things that I'll save for another post.

(The creators of CCleaner also have a program called Recuva which will recover deleted files, even if you've emptied the recycle bin. This handy little program helped me retrieve over 10,000 files that had "gone missing" on my computer. I hadn't deleted them, they had gotten dumped into a rogue file on my external hard drive and I couldn't get them out of that file.)

Not only do I have a firewall on my router, but I use Windows firewall. Lots of people poo-poo Windows products, but I've not had anything get through the Windows firewall as long as I've kept my system updated through Windows updates.

In addition to Windows firewall, I also use Avast Home Edition Free. I used to use TrendMicro, AVG, Norton, McAfee, etc. I always wound up with serious issues with them (especially TrendMicro that wouldn't update the software, even after multiple calls to their tech department and several hundred bucks worth of subscriptions, and Norton, which seemed to allow some really ugly stuff to get through (mom found that out also).)

Now don't get me wrong here, I'm not dissing TrendMicro or Norton, but I just don't think they are the software for me. Your mileage may vary.

With Avast Home Edition Free I had to jump through some hoops getting it registered, but it wasn't painful, the hoops weren't on fire, and it didn't cost me anything but time and a few clicks. It has stopped trojans and keyloggers dead in their tracks before they could get into my system and do damage.

One of my favorite sites to visit is Doxdesk. It doesn't install anything. You don't download anything. It is a site "badthing sniffer". If you have a parasite lurking in your browser, it will find it. It will tell you what you have AND how to get rid of it. The very first time I visited that site, it found 5 parasites. I had no idea they were there. They weren't tking up resources, my browser wasn't behaving badly, but they were there, with their potential nastiness.

It also has a lot of other really good information for you on how to prevent these nasty bugs. I visit that site in 5 different browsers at least once a week. (Yes, I have 5 browsers and it is hard to tell who is going to pick up what.)

I hope that my little PSA can help you keep your computer free of internet nasties. I've had my share and learned the hard way (through many windows reinstalls) that you need some software to protect against other software.

Happy computing!

Sale!

2009-06-17T13:02:00.003-05:00

I'm running a sale in my shop! I haven't decided how long I'm going to run it, so my indecision is your gain!

Coffee Coozies are now buy 4 get one free!

All polymer clay beads are buy one get one at equal or lesser value for free!

All refunds will be given through paypal, so don't pay right away! Not only will I refund the price of your freebie, but I'll refund shipping too!

I just added new coozies and some really great beads, including an 11 bead set.

Stay tuned and check back often, I will be adding more coozies and beads over the next few days. If you have something specific in mind, please contact me through ArtFire and we can work something out.

Happy Wednesday!

Unusual Chicken

2009-06-16T08:01:00.003-05:00

This is a recipe my (favourite) aunt put in the church cookbook many years ago, and I finally got around to trying it.

Note of warning: my own troops loved this so much that they FOUGHT over the last piece of chicken.

This is very easy to double if you have more mouths to feed, or very hungry mouths to feed.

Ingredients:
Boneless, skinless thick chicken breasts (4-6) (The thin ones won't work as well, so get the thicker pieces)
1/2 C. (118ml) Russian dressing
1/2 C. (118ml) Apricot preserves
1 envelope dry onion soup mix

Mix dressing, preserves, and soup mix and pour over chicken breasts. Cook uncovered in oven at 350F (176C) for one hour. Serve over cooked rice.

Do you have a question?

2009-06-11T16:33:00.001-05:00

If you have questions about polymer clay, the PCSG Blog is the place to be.

A few days after you post your question, the great clayers of the guild will answer your questions and will be posted in the blog.

Here is the link! Ask to your heart's content!

All things clay

2009-06-11T07:46:00.002-05:00

I have found polymer clay to be such a wonderful and relaxing medium. While I won't give up my fabric for anything, I still love clay.

It is such a diverse substance, coming in different colors and consistencies, that I can't help of come up with a million ideas for things I want to make from clay.

I feel very lucky to be part of the Polymer Clay Smooshers Guild on Artfire. They are really a talented group and haven't hesitated to answer my questions and help me along in my own clay journey.

Here are some things that they have done:
(all pictures link to rapid cart so you can purchase)

Jewelry:

More Jewelry:

Polymer clay isn't just for jewelry! I have seen what could be classifed as "fine art" for sale on ArtFire, from some of my fellow guild members. Some of them do some really amazing sculputres, and one lady does the most astounding miniatures.

Thank you ladies for letting me make spotlights of your work! You have some really amazing things, I can't wait to see what else you do!

I've been tagged!

2009-06-05T08:23:00.004-05:00

I'm supposed to post 7 random things about me, and pick 7 other bloggers to tag.

I'm running short on time, so I'll pick the other bloggers after my interview. woot!

I have a Dutch show rabbit named Elmer.
My hometown is the largest city nearest the geographical and geodesic center of the US. (Kansas)
Yes, I really have seen a tornado. (More than several, to be exact)
One of my sisters is named Dorthy.
I really, truly, and sincerely hate the movie Wizard of Oz.
My favorite band is Little River Band, originally from Little River, Australia.
I have all but the two newest LRB albums, and paid more than $80 for my copy of The Net

Like I said, I'll tag people later...gotta finish getting ready! WOOT!!

Busy with clay

2009-05-24T07:32:00.003-05:00

Among my many craft interests is polyclay. In recent weeks and months, my son has been encouraging me to not only sell some of my recently found older things, but to also create new ones.

I've found some fantastic new mentors in my ArtFire guild, Polymer Clay Smooshers Guild, and we have some new and exciting things coming up in the near future.

I thought I'd take a few minutes from my busy day to post a few of my clay things.

Sometimes you just HAVE to...

2009-05-13T16:52:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you just have to make time for yourself. I'm guilty of not taking time out for me.

I work a 40 hour week job, and come home and work on my sewing or my beads. This morning before work, I found myself catching up on emails and plurks I'd missed the last couple days, while sanding beads. I rarely - if ever - take time for me. Sometimes my sewing counts, but I've been getting restless lately. I think its the weather, but at any rate...its time for Me Time.

While I was at work I did some thinking. I had a few dollars in my pocket from my mom for my Mother's Day present, with the instruction to use it on something for me. Well, I'm not good at buying things for me, so I decided to go get more clay.

While I was there (and the clay was 50% off) I found this neat 7 piece set of clay tools that has a long, flat razor that I need to do the mica shift. It was $15.99, but I got it anyway.

Today is such a pretty day...high 70's, light breeze, sun is shining...and I realized that I miss my horse. I'm going to put off ALL my crafty intentions for the evening, and make the (short) drive out to see her and at least get her brushed. I'm sure her heavy winter coat is shedding by now, and she always appreciates a good brushing.

My mom picks up the kids on Wednesday nights and takes them to dinner and then to the park, so I've got a few hours until I need to go get them, and some "horse therapy" is just what the dr ordered for today.

Tomorrow I'll be back on the sewing and claying...but today, its all about me!

Votehandmade.com

2009-05-04T05:47:00.003-05:00

Ok, I know that there has been a huge brouhaha over votehandmade.com. I *could* very easily post their official press release and smile and nod my head.

But.

I have a conscience. I can't do that.

What I can do is give you my honest opinion.

I like the site, for the most part. It's clean, simple to use, fun to add links, fun to watch your added things get votes.

What I don't like is that some of my posted things refuse to show pictures, even though the listing has a picture. I've tried to show it off twice, and it just flat refuses to show a picture.

That is just a minor thing though. My biggest beef is one which is echoed by my friends and fellow ArtFire artisans.

The downvotes.

I will grant you that some of the downvotes may simply be because the voter truly does not like the product.

I don't think that is the case all of the time, though.

It affects mainly people in the jewelry category, but I've recently seen it take a dip into novelty and housewares.

It seems that ArtFire links are being singled out and downvoted by a LOT of people.

This truly saddens me. Not for the artisans, not for the products themselves (some of which are truly genius and works of art), but for the people targeting ArtFire links and downvoting them.

It could be two things.

One, is that it could be a competitor, trying to make their product look better.
Two, it could be someone from another venue trying to smear ArtFire.

These people never leave critisim. Ever. They just downvote and slink off.

They need to know that their own karma will drop, and their votes won't count anymore.

Secondly, they need to know that I feel sorry for them. Do they think their own work is so inferior that they must downgrade someone else's work just to make themselves feel better? Are they trying to make a point about ArtFire?

I'm not a big fan of other sites, especially the ones that charge listing fees, that's why I'm on ArtFire to begin with, but seriously. I don't go around downvoting 1000markets listings or etsy listings.

If I don't like what they show, I just move on. It is better for me, and better for the lister to keep my mouth shut. If I have knowledge that may benefit them, I leave a comment...to help them improve.

I don't downvote.

In closing, I want to let the downvoters know that I truly feel sorry for them, and want to help them enjoy what they have to offer the handmade community. If there is anything I could do to improve their self esteem, I would.

They don't anger me, they sadden me. I wish I could hug them to brighten their day, so they can see the bright side of handmade, even if it comes from a venue they don't like.

Kickinskreations - delicious candles

2009-05-03T06:24:00.002-05:00

Kickinskreations has soome truly unreal candles. I don't know how she does it, but they look like REAL food. I leave her shop with a growling tummy, every time I visit.

Her ArtFire shop is usually my first stop.

That "cherry pie" is a candle. Looks like a real cherry pie to me! This makes me want pie, for breakfast.

She also makes soap. I would show you a picture of the soap I bought for my husband, but some might be offended. I will, however, show you her "Kiss my butt..." soap.

She has been crafting (although in my personal opinion this is more art) since January of 2008, and I once heard her say that her son is her biggest inspiration.

I have to wonder...did her son inspire her fantastic cola candle???

If he is anything like my kids, maybe it inspired her margarita candle!

Her favorite color is blue, and I love the vivid blue of the blueberry candle!

She has an impressive presence on the web, and these are all the places I've found her.

MyCraft.com
Facebook
Make sure to follow her on Twitter!
Indiepublic
ArtFire

Her candles would make a great conversation piece (and they smell really great!!) for your next gathering! Take a look!

I want to promote you!

2009-05-02T08:39:00.004-05:00

Hi there! Looking for your first blog promotion? Your 17th? New to the whole online selling and need to get your name out there? Old hat?

Want free stuff?

You've come to the right place!!

I want to promote you. Yes, YOU.

What I want from you:

I want your shop banner (artfire, etsy, 1000markets, dawanda, etc). You can give me a link to the shop you want me to "steal" it from, or you can attach it.

I want 3 pics of your things. Your choice. Attach to the email please!

I also want to know (and this is the most important part, so PLEASE don't leave it out!)

Whacha make?
How long have you been crafting?
Favorite color to craft?
What inspires and motivates you?
Anything else you want to add?

We are curious folk here on the internet, so please tell us where we can see more of you! Give me your links to your shop(s), website, blog, twitter, plurk, facebook, myspace, and anywhere else you have an internet presence!

What I'm going to do with all this:

First of all, your banner will wind up on my website.

Your interview will wind up here, on the blog. The more you write, the more you will promote yourself!

Then, to top it off, I will put your name in TWO hats. One for the website, one for the blog. You get two chances to win a Coffee Coozie of your choice!

The drawing is 10 May...US Mother's Day, but ANYONE can participate in this!

If you win the coozie, and can't find the perfect one in my shop PLEASE email me so I can send you scans of the fabric I have cut but not sewed. I always have coozies cut to be sewed, but not all of it listed.

Free. Won't charge you for shipping or packaging. Free means FREE. You can keep it for yourself or give it as a gift. Please don't re-sell it, as it is copyrighted, and I'll get a little cranky. You wouldn't want to host a giveaway and have someone sell your widget to someone else, would you? Your consideration and respect is REALLY appreciated!

Now, on to the nuts and bolts.

Email me the information I'm asking for to karlee (at) uniquebykarlee (dot) com

I will email you when you are featured on the blog.

(To those of you already participating, I will be updating the website shortly!)

One more thing:

While there isn't anything really in it for you other than self promotion, I'd LOVE to host your tutorials here. Anything handmade, anything at all, even if you are my "competition", I want your tutorials. Type it out, let me know if you want me to fix grammar and spelling, and email it to me at the above address.

(There really isn't anything in it for me either, but this is about you, not me!)

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Suzanne Tate - Bead Artist

2009-05-02T06:52:00.003-05:00

Suzanne has this to say about her beads:

I make handmade, lampworked glass beads, and jewelry from my beads. I have been making glass beads for about 6 years. I love working with molten glass and a flame – it’s quite addictive. I love trying to master new techniques and skills and I change styles frequently, trying new things. I am also involved with medieval re-creation, and I research and recreate period beads.

I'll let her art say the rest!

(As always, click the picture to visit the listing!)

This red necklace really is RICH (and I love it):

My mom's favorite color is orange, and I may just have to save up and get this for her:

These spring beads make me think of new grass:

Isn't her work just incredible?

I have a confession to make. I'm a lampwork junkie, and glass bead addict. I also have a secret obsession with cell phone charms. I feel the need to break my own "promotion rules" and post one extra picture, only because its a phone charm and its blue (my favorite color).

You can find Suzanne by clicking the following links (and I hope you do!)
Etsy Shop
ArtFire Studio
Her fabulous website
Look! Her blog!
Follow her on twitter!

New Coffee Coozies!

2009-04-29T05:51:00.002-05:00

Just last night I listed new coozies, perfect for Mother's Day!

All of the pictures are clickable, and will take you to the listing in a new window.

A light pink background with teal and pink swirls is perfect for the girly girl mom!

Is mom a wild child? Pink leopard spots is right up her alley!

Maybe pastel horizontal stripes is more her style! I only have 4 sewed at the current time, and all are listed at the same listing. They all came out differently because of the uniqueness of the fabric, giving each a completely different feel.

If mom is a musician or just a music aficionado, I have two music notes coozies! The white on black is stunning, and the staves are set vertically instead of horizontally for a "notable" twist.

These are affordable gifts for mom priced at rock bottom $5.00! If you want me to ship straight to mom with a little note inside, I am willing to help! I giftwrap and ship to secondary addresses at no additional charge unless mom lives outside the US. What I pay for shipping is what you pay for shiping.

Use the "contact seller" or "note to seller" features to give me your special instructions. The invoice will be sent to you, while mom gets the giftwrapped coozie with your note and instruction sheet.

Coozies make great gifts for any holiday, any season, any reason. 100% machine washable, 100% machine dryable, 100% microwavable! I highly reccomend putting the coozie on the cup before pouring coffee and putting in the microwave. Please do not bleach!!

Tech help here.

2009-04-18T07:25:00.002-05:00

We are living in a technology oriented world. You are reading this on a computer either directly on my blog or through a newsfeed reader (which I have yet to wrap my brain around).

There are a lot of tips and tricks for your browser that not a lot of people know, and I'm going to share them with you here. Please feel free to book mark this page for your future reference.

Before I go on, I want to say that I'm 100% self taught. I code my own website. When I blog here, I use the "Edit Html" tab instead of the WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) editor. I code my blog pages much like I code my website...and I don't use a fancy expensive program to write code, I use notepad. All the HTML and CSS tags are stored in my head. I have found that the expensive programs will give you more coding errors and won't get things exactly as you want them as easily as notepad.

Ok. On to the tips.

First and foremost, remember the ctrl key is your friend. I use keyboard shortcuts all the time, and this is a small snippet of what you can do with the ctrl key.

1.
There are times where you need to clear your cookies and cache to properly view a page that has been recently updated. What happens is the OLD cache and cookie get stored, and for faster loading, your browser will refer back to the OLD ones instead of knowing you want to refresh.

What do you do?

Well, most people take the long route. They go to tools, then options, clear cookies/history/cache and then close the browser, and reopen it.

Bah. Too many steps.

Easier to tell the browser to dump JUST THAT PAGE by pressing ctrl F5.

As soon as you press ctrl F5 it will refresh the page and loade the new cache and cookie.

2.
You have twelvity five tabs or windows open and want to close them quickly.

What do you do?

Most people again, take the long route. The click all the little red x's in the corner of the tab or window.

The fast way is ctrl w. It will close the tab you are on or the window you are viewing. alt F4 will do the same thing, but I find it easier to use ctrl w.

To close them quickly, hold the ctrl button while pressing and releasing the w key rapidly. It might take a few seconds for your machine to catch up, but they *will* close. Faster than if you click the x.

3.
Formatting your text. This drives some people nuts. When you have a thought, and want to get it out quickly with formatting, you stop, click, type, stop, click, type more. This works with blogger and artfire chatterbox.

Keep typing and use your ctrl key.

ctrl b will tell the bold function to work. Pressing it again at the appropriate time, will turn the bold off.

ctrl i will turn on italics. Just like with bold, press it again before you want to turn off your italics.

Sometimes ctrl u will turn on underline. It doesn't work in blogger, but it does work on AF.

Sometimes you can activate ~~strikethrough~~ with ctrl s. Sometimes you have to code it with <s>strikethrough</s>. (it works in wordpress, but not here)

Other random keyboard shortcuts:
~Tab will force you to go to the next open link, next text field etc.
~Space bar will check or uncheck a box.
~Space bar will also scroll down, depending on the page.
~When typing, the "home" key will take you to the beginning of your sentence.
~When typing, the "end" key will take you to the end of your sentence.
~When browsing, "home" takes you to the top of the page. "End" takes you to the absolute bottom.
~If you are typing and the enter key gives you a new paragraph, but you only wanted a new sentence, hold the ctrl key while pressing enter to cancel it out that one time.
~In windows, the print screen (prnt scrn) key will take a screen shot of your current page, so you can open it in a photo viewer. Just paste (ctrl v) in the new image once you get there.

Simple HTML.

HTML confuses a lot of people, especially beginners. It took me a long time to learn the different tags and what they did. I'll post some codes that will work in bloggers "edit html" section, because I have found adding pictures in the WYSIWYG editor can be a Royal Pain because they go to the TOP of the post instead of where you want them after you've typed and typed and typed.

You will need to change your links to fit you. Obviously the ones I used don't work and are only placeholders.

To make your links active:
<a href="http://www.url.com"> words words words</a>

To insert an image:
<img src="http://www.url.jpg">

To make your picture clickable, and open in a new window:
<a href="http://www.url.com"><img src="http://www.url.jpg"
target="_blank"></a>

To insert a witty email link:
<a href="mailto:me@myemail.com">email me</a>

Horizontal line (useful for dividing your post when you are switching subjects)
<hr>

If you have blogger HTML related questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on ArtFire, comment here, email me, yell at me, use a bullhorn, twitter me, or send smoke signals. I will respond as fast as humanly possible.

DJStoreRoom in the spotlight!

2009-04-17T06:30:00.003-05:00

WOW! This seller has a lot of neato things in her shop, just BEGGING you to buy them!

For starters, she has wristlets! Such a neat idea, and really cute fabrics.

Here is one:

I love all things glittery, and these pink, glittery pegs are crying to me. I can think of 1001 uses for them!

She is also an accomplished painter!

In her own words, here is a little bit about her:

1. Whacha make?
I handmade bags, purses, paint with acrylics, play with serviette art and write out my own sewing tutorials for busy beginner sewers.

2. How long have you been crafting?
Technically, I started cross-stitching when I was 8. Learnt to use the sewing machine when I was 13. Sewed my first piece of clothing for a real human being when I was 24. Been crafting with paper, scissors and paint since i was 3... Now that sounds like a very long time... Crafting is really a very old art and even my daughter is now crafting!! She loves the art and craft sessions, at home and in school too.

3. Favorite color to craft?
PINK!! Anytime.. Light pink, baby pink, bright pink dark pink.. Any pink!! Anytime!!

4. What inspires and motivates you?
Value Creating. Everytime I do something, I ask myself, "Is any value being created?" It can be monetary, social, networking, family, self or anything else.

If I can see the value, I will do it. If I cannot see the value of doing something, I try not to touch it. Like say, something mudane like washing the dishes. I would be creating and adding on to the value of a nice, clean and neat home for me, my family and everyone who visit. So, I will see that as a priority. For my crafting projects, if that particular project will turn out to be pretty and yet still practical, I would do it too. If the project creates beauty and functional value at the same time, then yeah, I would be totally inspired and motivated to finish it up.

5. Anything else you want to add?
Setting your priorities and goals in life is really important. I seek to set and achieve my daily goals. A tiny step a day brings you closer to your dreams each day. Remind yourself of your goals everyday and remain on track even if there are many distractions along the way. To be able to live is a blessing in itself already. Let us live each day fulfillingly and always be true. To yourself, to your loved ones, to others. It is the one and only way to live.

You can find djStoreRoom by clicking on the following links:
http://artfire.com/users/djstoreroom
http://djstoreroom.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/djstoreroom
http://djstoreroom.etsy.com

New way to open cans.

2009-04-14T14:28:00.002-05:00

My dear friend Paula from Picardcreative does neat things with lids to tin cans. You know, fruit, veggies, beans, spaghetti, etc.

I love that one.

Anyway, I wanted to save lids for her also. One problem: no can opener that opens without the rough edges.

Looked *all* over town and no one had one. No one had even HEARD of them. Granted, this is Kansas, but are we *really* that far in the dark ages???

Time to think outside of the box!

My first experiment was on a can of beans. Not only did it work, it worked so well that now the lefty in the house can open cans too!

Here is a pic tutorial of how to do it with a "normal" can opener.

Can of pears. My snack. Here's to hoping it stays down. (I'm home sick from work)

Here is the can with my regular can opener. I think I paid $5 for it at walmart a thousand years ago.

I turned the can horizontal instead of vertical, like it should be...
(NOTE: you can see the can is punctured by looking at the handle...it's shut)

I've gone all the way around the can now, and slightly moved the lid away to show you. The good thing about doing it this way is that it doesn't fall into the can, it stays with the opener. The bad thing is it's hard to open tuna cans, you have to drain the tuna in a strainer. Oh, and occasionally you get a ribbon of paper in your food. It's easy to pull out, though. (One way around that is to remove the label *before* you open it)

Final pic, the lid is off. The sharp edges of the can have been happily smooshed to the lid, and are no longer a threat.

I'm sure Paula would love more lids, and now you don't have to get a new opener just to help her! Use the "contact" button in her studio to ask her where to ship the lids.

Made the move!

2009-04-09T18:16:00.003-05:00

I sincerely apologize that it took me so long to post this after getting my internet back, but I'm having issues finding important things like trash bags, dishes, toilet paper, clean socks...moving is really for the birds!

I know I promised pics of the new house, but my landlord has asked me to refrain, due to the fact that a lawsuit is pending.

We took possession of the house a day and a half later than we were supposed to, because the current tenant was taking her texas time getting out.

Once we got in...we saw the extent of the damage. It makes me almost sick to think of it, but the landlord is doing his best to make the repairs (quickly) while we attempt to get unpacked and settled in.

As I type this, my china hutch is in the middle of the living room floor, behind me. My kitchen is scattered between the living room, dining room, garage, kitchen, and at least one bedroom. As much as I appreciate the help I had getting my things moved, they completely ignored the labels on the boxes, and just put stuff willy-nilly throughout.

As soon as I find all my fabric, sewing notions, and cord for my sewing machine, I'll be back to work and back in business on ArtFire.

Thank you to Alisun and Larry for being so patient with me while I unearth their coozies from this disaster. I *will* be finding them tonight before bed. Alisun's will get shipped tomorrow and Larry's will be listed so he can buy them!

Back to unpacking!
Karlee

Coffee Coozie

2009-03-28T19:41:00.003-05:00

I decided to unveil my coffee coozies earlier than I was planning on, but they've already been a big hit! I sold two within 15 minutes of putting the listing up.

I have more fabrics yet to list, and have some duplicates of all the fabrics.

Stay tuned for more coozie listings!!

Keep warm! - byhand.me spotlight

2009-03-28T08:06:00.003-05:00

It is still snowing outside, and we have about a foot of it on the ground. I'm not looking forward to taking my dog outside because its so cold!

Here is a spotlight of warm things that I think I need right now, but can't afford. =(

Feedback from a buyer

2009-03-28T07:51:00.002-05:00

I recently traded the pink Harveyette dog for some other goods. The recipient got her Harveyette and sent me a little note.

We got the dog today. It's adorable. The funny thing is that my daughter is determined that it's a goat...lol. Keep in mind that she just turned 3. You know how once they get their minds set, that's how it it.

Thanks so much

I like personal notes better than feedback left on sites. I'm glad the dog will be loved, and that the recipient liked it!

Harvey and Harveyette

2009-03-25T06:29:00.002-05:00

Harvey is a stuffed dachshund I made from a pattern online. He became a necessity when I realized my dog, Ripley, hated cameras. I needed a dog, and sometimes a dachshund, to model my dog clothes.

Not only do the dog clothes not fit humans, I'd look a little silly trying.

This is Harvey modeling my favorite dog vest:

I have more pics of Harvey in a variety of clothes and poses, but you get the idea.

He is made from white muslin, to kind of blend into the white background I use. I didn't want anything that would detract from the clothes I make.

I showed off my new pics of Harvey wearing his clothes, and someone on the ArtFire forums noticed. Boy howdy did they notice, they wanted one.

Well, I tried my best to make one out of flannel backed satin, but I discovered that stuff is a veritable nightmare to work with. The three Harveys I made from it, exploded when I went to stuff them.

I was sincerely hoping that my Harvey wasn't a one time fluke. I gathered my wits, dried my tears, and went searching through my stash to find something else suitable.

A few weeks ago, I was at Wal-Mart, and found some pink fun fur in their remnant bin. It was well more than a yard, and I knew that I'd find a use for it, eventually. Well, the time had come, and I decided to try a Harvey out of the pink fun fur.

Not only did Harvey-ette come to life, but she is just adorable!

Somehow I managed to get her head to turn just a little to the left. Don't ask me how I did it, I think that is just something she wanted to do.

Mind you, she is much cuter in person.

My kids were highly distressed to find that Harvey-ette was going to live with another family. They loved her so much that the youngest of my two had a MAJOR meltdown when I told her that Harveyette wasn't for her.

Harvey-ette went to go live with her new family yesterday, and the reaction at the post office was priceless.

I had a couple things to mail, and walked in with Harveyette tucked under one arm, because I wasn't sure what box I needed to send her to North Carolina. I got one of the packages mailed and the guy at the counter eyed the pink stuffed dog and said "Do I want to ask about the dog?"

So I plopped Harveyette on the counter and said "I want to mail her." We had a discussion about boxes, and he pointed me in the right direction.

While I was addressing the box and putting it together, I had more than a few comments on her.

"You're going to make a little girl very happy with that!"
and
"Where did you get that? I've never seen anything like that before!"
and
"Where can I get one?"

I handed out the ONE extra business card I had, and wrote down my arftire address for 3 others.

That'll teach me to not have business cards with me at the post office.

Anyway, I got her safely tucked in the box, and went back to the counter. I went to a different window, and the first guy looked at the one helping me and said "You should see whats in that box! Its a stuffed pink weiner dog!"

They had a good giggle, and the 2nd guy suggested that when I mail more, I should wait to seal up the box so everyone can see what I'm sending.

One of the girls I work with saw Harveyette when we were getting off work...she wants one for her daughter. My kids want their own, and now my best friend wants one too.

I want to make more to put in my ArtFire shop because the two I've made so far have been such a hit.

I'll have to wait for a couple weeks though, but I'll get them up.

If you want to order a custom, feel free. Be aware there is a little bit of a waiting list though.

Harveys made from regular fleece or cotton fabric are $30 plus $4.95 shipping.
Harveys made from fun fur are $50 plus $4.95 shipping (fun fur is waaaaaayyyyyy more expensive than regular fabric)

Crafty intentions update

2009-03-20T07:29:00.003-05:00

I have started to recycle a bit, and started an art journal.

My artwork created from various means can be found HERE.

This blog will remain more for talking about things I'm selling and new ideas to sell.

Thank you for following and taking the time to read and give me feedback on ways to improve my blog and ways to improve or expand my sewing!

Crafty intentions

2009-03-15T07:20:00.002-05:00

I know this is my second blog post in one day (rare for me! LOL) but I felt the need.

I have so many crafty intentions, and wanted to put them out here for everyone to read, as a sort of motivator for me.

In no particular order, I want to:

Recycle, recycle, recycle. I got some gesso yesterday (thanks mom!!!) and did a google on tutorials. Wound up at several sites that had crafty tutorials and ideas, a lot of which gave me new ideas for recycling.
Make more fiber art. Not just sewing.
Use up some of my fabric scraps while recycling.
Make gift tags by recycling clothing tags using recycled wrapping paper, fabric, and all sorts of other stuff I have lurking around.
Make some pretty vases/pencil holders with fabric, recycled wrapping paper, and plastic bottles/plastic coffee containers.
Make some ACEO's and see how they go.
Sew more stuffed dogs. I've had a lot of interest in them in the past few days.
Sew more clothes to sell. I hoard all of the clothes I make for myself, I need to learn to share.
Design and make new bags/purses.
Start using up more of my stashes. I have decorative rhinestones, plastic gem things, rick-rack, embroidery floss, fabric, more fabric, shiny fabric, destroyed pearl head pins that I don't have the heart to throw away, old magazines, stickers, pom poms, glitter, lace, more lace, ohmygosh I have a lot of stuff! I'm not even sure what all I have!
Alter notebooks. I seem to collect notebooks, I should redecorate the covers with fabric.

I also have a two-drawer filing cabinet that is RED. Not just kinda red...FIRE ENGINE red. It doesn't match *anything* in my house. It is my "night table" of sorts, because I'm usually flat broke, and like to hide things, so the free filing cabinet got turned into my night table/black hole of "I need this, I can't throw it away, but you can't look at it" things. I have this bottle of gesso...and some sandpaper....and a sander...and a ton of ideas...

I want to get back into furniture. A few years ago, I went through my house and dang near everything that was wood got refinished. We have a new used furniture store in town, and when I drive by, I see allllll sorts of things just begging to be loved. Course, that is rather expensive to get started, so I guess I need to sell more stuff on artfire.

Of course, all of this comes to me in an early morning caffeine overload induced epiphany.

...Two weeks until moving day.

*sigh*

Buy handmade

2009-03-15T05:34:00.005-05:00

I've been thinking about writing this post for a few weeks now. It is strictly my opinion, and if you don't agree, tough toenails.

I would rather buy from mom & pop shops, craft fairs, and any other venue of handmade sellers than from large chain stores. Even if I have to pay more to do so.

There. I said it. I'll pay more for handmade than if I bought it from a chain store.

I recently bought a 4 oz bar of soap for $4. In the past, I would pay $4 for 4 bars of Ivory. I also bought a $6 jar of lotion that was only 4 oz. In the past, I would try to get lotion as cheap as possible, including *waiting* for sales at Bath and Body Works.

So why did I spend more for handmade? Better quality. Someone is getting paid better for their hard work by me buying handmade than they would if they were working checkout at the store. They are enjoying their art and craft more than if they were stuck behind the counter pushing cheap crap that is going to break in the first year. They are supporting their family just a bit better.

I went on a search a couple weeks ago to find a model for my dog clothes. The first place I looked was a mom & pop toy store downtown. Yeah, the stuffed animal I brought home wasn't handmade, but the mom & pop is trying to compete against the likes of Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Target, etc. They also have personal stake in the store so the customer service is going to be better than if I were to go to someone at Target and say "I'm looking for a life-size dog because I make dog clothes and I don't want my dog to pee on the clothes.".

I went in looking for ONE thing. I left with more than $60 worth of toys, because we ALL left with something new. My son got a new science thingybobber, my daughter got a new toy car, I got my stuffed dog, and my husband found a new otter to add to his collection. I felt happy that I could purchase from the mom & pop, it gave me a sense of pride that my purchase is helping them live the lifestyle they want.

I was in the new Khols store the other day, looking for a few things. I didn't find exactly what I wanted, and my 12 year old son turned to me and said "You know mom, I don't think you are going to find what you are looking for here, besides, I'd rather have you make my new curtains than buy them from a store."

That made me proud.

We wandered all over the store, and somehow wound up in the jewelry section. We came across a rack of necklaces that had brightly colored plastic stones on them, for $22. Granted, Khols was having a sale that day, but still. Plastic. I showed it to my husband and said (loudly) "This is nice, but I can think of at least 3 sellers on ArtFire who could make me something similar with real stones, and no one else would have one just like it." Four other shoppers whipped their heads around to look at me and glare.

Yeah, I made a small scene. Deal with it. I don't want to look just like you because I'm not just like you, I'm me.

We were on our way out, and my husband stopped to look at sun dresses in the women's section. He pointed to one and said "I like that style, but hate that fabric. Can you find a pattern for a dress like that and I'll help you pick out the fabric?"

I love to make my own clothes. With the thousands of patterns at my local JoAnn's store, I can usually find something gorgeous to make. They also have thousands of different fabrics, so I'm pretty sure I can also find a fabric that I'll enjoy and want to wear...that fits my personal style. In the end, I'll have something that is unique.

I mean seriously folks, there were probably 15 dresses on the rack that all looked the same except for size, and who knows how many lurking in the back store room. That means that I would have the same exact dress as at least 15 other women.

Isn't it some kind of fashion sin to show up to a function wearing the same dress/outfit as another woman? The only way I can guarantee that I'll have a unique outfit is to make it myself.

I love the look on some people's faces when they see my latest dress, skirt, purse, shirt, whatever and say "OHMYGOSH that is SO beautiful! Where did you get it? I have to have one!!!" And I smile quietly and inform them that I made it.

This is a small town, and we don't have many luxury stores...if they could even be considered that. We have a Dillard's, JCPenny, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart, K-mart, and now a Khols. No Macys. No Bloomingdales. Heck, we don't even have an Olive Garden here in town.

What do you get with those stores?

Cookie cutter.

You buy there, someone else will probably have something similar, if not identical, to what you just bought.

I have dreses in my closet that are OOAK. I have a black crushed velvet dress with a shortish hem and longish sleeves, and a sweetheart neckline. I made it from two different patterns. I have a yellow dress with purple irises too. It has a tea length hem, sweetheart neckline, and tie straps.

My daughter has her cherished "Cars" nightgown she wanted from Santa. My mom went to both KC and Wichita looking for one, and couldn't find it. I made one for her in under an hour, and I'll be darned if that little girl hasn't taken it to show and tell at least a half dozen times since Christmas.

Her christmas dress was made from black crushed velvet and two patterns combined. She was the talk of the Christmas service because no one had seen that dress anywhere in town before.

Buy handmade. Talk to a struggling seamstress about making your next easter dress, or Mother's Dress for that upcoming wedding. You're guaranteed to have something unique!

How-to: No Sew Fleece blanket

2009-03-07T08:02:00.002-06:00

I love to give no-sew fleece blankets as gifts! They are warm, fuzzy, and they rarely get shoved to the back of the closet.

To make a no-sew fleece blanket, you don't need ANY sewing skills. None. It's great!

You will need:
Sharp scissors
Yardstick
ruler
Fleece (two kinds)

Let's talk about the fleece first. Fleece comes in different types, different qualities, and different colors and patterns.

For a no-sew blanket, you are going to want similar types of fleece, so if it shrinks, your blanket won't warp. I always suggest no-pill fleece because well...it doesn't pill in the dryer. It stays fuzzy and soft.

Fleece is normally between 58" and 60" (147cm and 152cm) wide, with the selvedge. The selvedge is the edge stuff that isn't always the prettiest, and often has brand and licensing information printed on it. You will want to trim this off before you start.

If you are doing a baby blanket, 1 yard of each fleece is enough.
Twin size you will need about 2 yards of each.
If you want to go bigger (such as a queen or king size blanket), you will have to stitch the fleece together.

Most blankets I make are made from 2 yards. I have gotten away with using panels before, but check the size first.

In my example, I used a bright floral with a neon pink. You want to contrast contrast contrast! Using two fleece of the same color won't give you as impressive as a result. The sky is the limit here with what you use, and your team colors (high school, college, pro-sports) are always a big hit! I will also apologize in advance for the blurry pics. My normal camera had died a horrible death, and these were taken with a camera phone. I have an easter blanket planned to do in the next few days, I will get better pictures then, and update.

First, spread your fleece out on the (clean) floor.

Layer your two fleece pieces together, and trim them up so they are identical in size.

In the above picture, you can not only see the contrast, but you can see how they line up.

Now is where you get your ruler. I use my clear grid rulers (for quilting) because they give me a reliable guide, but you can use a standard school ruler.

Start in one corner, and mark then cut out a 6 inch by 6 inch square.(15cm)

Now to cut...

Carefully cut out all 4 corners.

Use your yard stick or straight stick to line up a 6 inch (15cm) line all the way across your blanket. Your stick might not go that far, and thats fine, if you are careful during the next steps, you can measure up your 6 inch (15cm) line and leave your stick on it

Now you want to cut 1 inch (2.5cm) strips, 6 inches (15cm) up, all along the edge.

For your sanity, only do one side of the blanket at a time.

Got your side cut? Good! Now you start tying.

Tie it in a knot, looping twice. This will bring the "back" fleece to the front, and send the "front" fleece to the back.

Work your way around the blanket. Make sure you knot it fairly tight and don't leave any gaps between the front and the back.

When you are done, it should look something like these photos:

Happy no-sewing!

If you have any problems or questions, please do not hesitate to email me at karlee@uniquebykarlee.com and I'll do my best to get to you as soon as possible!

Raindrops on roses...

2009-03-06T06:39:00.002-06:00

I decided to have a little fun with byhand.me today. I have made up a few spotlights of things I have found around ArtFire that I really like, and in most cases, really want.

Please take a few moments to click around in these spotlights, you may find something you can't live without!

(If I have used your product in my spotlight, please don't be offended at the free advertising!)

I want to thank everyone

2009-03-01T19:26:00.002-06:00

I want to thank everyone who has participated in my polls. They are up for another 3 months!

I would like to get as much input as possible! I have one completed purse made from colors based on the polls, and will be finishing the other two by the end of the week. I also have a new secret project that I should be able to unveil within two hours, and it too, can be based off of poll results.

I feel that by getting the input of the general population I can better serve my customers.

I would like to take a moment to thank "Gerty", "Mavis" and my Twitter followers who helped pass around the link to help me get more input as to what people like best!

Check ArtFire soon for the unveiling of the "Brenda Bag"!

I need to know!

2009-02-28T08:48:00.002-06:00

I have two polls up, and would appreciate your participation.

I need to know color (or colour) combinations you like. It doesn't have to be your favorite/favourite, but just ones you really enjoy.

I also need to know your favorite color/colour.

With both polls, you can select more than one answer, so click away!

Please use this post to add additional comments if you need to, such as a colour combination I missed, or if you prefer baby blue or slate blue over royal blue. I know I didn't get every colour combination listed and when you say "blue" different people have different shades that pop into their head, so please leave a comment to your favourites!

Thanks
Karlee - pretending to be a mad designer, crayons in hand!

Shine Your Hiney!!!

2009-02-26T22:16:00.002-06:00

We all bathe (hopefully) daily. We all (hopefully) use soap. Lots of us use lotion.

I shower daily. I use soap daily. I use horrendous amounts of lotion, daily.

You see, I'm a seamstress, and I sew a LOT of vinyl. I sewed 3 tarps, a custom tarp, and two mesh tarps today. I used well over 200 feet of cargo webbing (really really hard on your skin) and probably better than 50 feet of sub-grade seat belt webbing (the stuff in your cars, only not quite as high of a grade...we use it in hems).

That is a normal day for me. If anything rips my hands to shreds its the mesh and the cargo webbing. My hands are rough and calloused. They are dry and slightly wrinkly (because of the excessive dryness), and if they don't look like I'm 90 years old, they look masculine. My nails are dry and brittle, at best. I normally can't get them to shine like healthy nails should, and I have a really hard time growing them to a "pretty" length.

I had asked on the ArtFire forums about thick lotion that wasn't greasy.

I have problems with lotions. If it isn't greasy, it isn't thick, and won't do me any good at all. If it's thick and moisturizing, I might as well be trying to pick up a greased piglet when I pick up a tarp. Ever pick up a greased piglet? No? Ok, ever watch someone try? It is nearly impossible to pick one of them up because they are wiggly, squealy, and...greased.

The tarp slips out of my hands and I have to go wash the lotion off to get any decent work done. I'd say that defeats the purpose of the lotion...wouldn't you?

Someone answered my call for thick and not-greasy lotion and sent me a free sample.

She also threw in a bar of goats milk soap.

I tried the lotion right there on the spot. My hands went from alligator to silk in .025 seconds, and STAYED that way. I had no problems picking up a tarp. I didn't leave greasy smears on it either. It didn't wash off. I also smelled like lilac. Not bottled lilac...lilac. Like grammy's bush in the back yard when I was a kid. Real lilac.

So I get home and deal with family related stuff, and finally get my chance in the shower...and tried the soap.

Now, I've never had goats milk soap before, so the texture was surprising at first. It felt soft. Not like squishy soft, but silky soft.

I got an impressive lather, and when it washed off, I didn't feel like I had a film sticking to me like when I use my other soaps. I decided to try it on my face too. I have bad acne and I'm really fighting it...use Neutragena soap, salitic acid astringent, and benzoyl peroxide. The works. Dries the acne up, but also my skin. After using the goats milk soap, my face felt cleaner than it ever has with the concoction I normally use...without feeling dried out and stretched.

I couldn't resist putting some of the lotion on my face too, and it feels more moisturized than it has in years.

I'm hooked.

So where can you get some of this fabulous stuff?

Here.

She is awesome. Super nice, and very proud of her product. She also has a list of scents as long as my arm, and will mix & match up to three, just for you.

I'm going to be a snob with my lotion tomorrow at work...I'm not sharing. Get yer own!

Aprons!

2009-02-26T06:05:00.002-06:00

BBQ season is nearly upon us, I know that my husband and I are eagerly awaiting the perfect spring day to break out the grill!

Because of this, I will be focusing on aprons for a while. I have three unfinished as we speak, and I will probably make a run to the fabric store for more fabric today.

Have you seen my Flames Dog Vest? I'm going to get more of that fabric for aprons! My husband put in a request for a "flames apron" and so I'm going to make two. One for him, one for ArtFire!

Do you have a specific request for an apron? I would LOVE to hear from you!

I can do different sizes, a more feminine pattern for the ladies, different fabrics, the sky is the limit!

I won't consider these to be "customs" and won't require a 50% down payment on aprons. Prices start at $22.50. You can further customize by adding words or phrases to your apron. There will be a single upcharge of $2 for this. Your phrase will be carefully stenciled on your apron with contrasting fabric paint (have a specific color in mind? Just ask!).

To request a specific apron contact me on ArtFire, comment here, or shoot me an email (karlee@uniquebykarlee.com). Once it is finished, I will email you and let you know your listing is up so you can purchase!

The Grande Experiment

2009-02-22T12:11:00.006-06:00

If I can get even one set of these beads to do what I want it to do, by whatever method, I'll post the detailed instructions.

That said, I've made a big mess. I've been making some fabric beads, using three different types of glue.

The first two sets were cut differently, and glued with your regular run of the mill white glue, slightly watered down. Once they are completely dried, I will find a way to coat, or at least lightly saturate, them with polyurethane. I have high gloss right now, but if it works, I'll be buying small cans of semi gloss and matte/flat. The polyurethane is so they don't fall apart if you happen to get them wet.

These next four were done with Gem Tack by Beacon. They were slightly less messy than the white glue, and this glue was designed to add individual rhinestones to your things. It is not meant to be drycleaned, but from what I gather, won't fall apart when you wash it or get it wet.

This last set was glued with Dazzle Tack, also by Beacon. Ohmygosh what a mess. The glue is clear and slightly runny, and seems to dry really quick. The upside is that if it's going to stick to my fingers like that, hopefully it will stick the fabric together.

Again, not for drycleaning, but I'm fairly sure that no one sends their jewelry to the cleaners on a regular basis.

More updates to follow when I'm done watching glue dry! ;-)

Frustrated

2009-02-21T15:28:00.003-06:00

I'm really down today...despite sewing my two goodies for the day, and I even got them listed. I splurged at wal-mart and got some new pink fuzzy stuff (not quite fleece, not quite fun fur) and some really neat lightning bolt fabric for doggy clothes. Oh, I even got some beading needles to give a try at beading that blasted vest that's been in the UFO box for forty-lebben years.

No, SEX (Stash Enhancement eXperience) and "retail therapy" didn't seem to help much.

Ok, so why am I frustrated?

Because of my DOG.

I love him dearly but he has been a constant source of frustration since we brought him home. We know little to nothing of his prior owners, so we don't know how he was raised. What we do know is that he is the biggest scaredy cat dog we've ever seen.

He pees. A LOT. I'm not talking about fountains when we take him for walks, I'm talking about when someone sneezes. I sneeze, and he pees. Loud noise on tv, he pees. Kids start fighting, he pees. My phone rings, he pees. I get a text message, he pees. Look at him sideways, he .... you get the point.

Soooo....I've been REALLY hesitant to use him as a model for my dog clothes. I don't want to send something out that he piddled on.

This morning I got up extra early and took him for a walk while the husband and kidlets slept. He did his morning piddle, and while we were walking around, I sneezed, I coughed, I hoped that I timed the walk just right for the train to go through at its usual time (two blocks from the house)...it did, by the way, and I even pretended to trip and nearly lose my balance. I was trying to get as much of his piddle out of the way before the pics as I could.

We came in from the walk and I gave him a drink of water, a few treats, and lots of love. I got the backdrop all set up, and put the hoodie on him.

He didn't pee. Ok good. We're off to a roaring good start. Normally he freaks out when I put his coat on him and we have "Lake Ripley" to clean up. Thank heavens for hardwood floors!

The furnace kicked on. Not so good. He still didn't piddle, but had a look of utter horror on his face. Crap. Forgot about the furnace scaring him too.

I took the pictures anyway. They turned out ok, except there is a terrified dog in them. I forgot that he doesn't like the camera.

*sigh*

I don't really have anyone around me with a small dog that I feel comfortable enough asking if I can "use" their dog as my model. My dog is scared of everything. When I use a plushie, people think I'm selling the plushie and not the coat.

I'm frustrated.

I'll figure something out, but in the mean time, one of my kids just dropped something in their room, and I have a mess to clean up under my desk.

Free Promotions!

2009-02-20T10:08:00.002-06:00

I am offering free promotion for members of ArtFire, Etsy, and anyone else struggling to make a sale of handmade goods.

Free. Only takes a little bit of your time, no money involved.

Here are the rules:

PG sites ONLY. This means no porn. Period. Adult content not allowed.
I will link to places where you make it yourself and sell it. ArtFire, Etsy, and the like. Ebay frightens me, but I'll link your eBay shop as long as you follow the PG rule . Blogs are a "yes" if they are PG. Why? Because you never know what 10 year old kid is going shopping online with dad for the perfect mother's day gift. What do you want YOUR 10 year old reading? ;) See my point?

Ok, here's how:

Either tell me where I can "take" the banner from, or email it to me in .jpg form (karlee@uniquebykarlee.com). ArtFire size and Etsy size banners are perfect! If you have no banner and aren't the "make it with pixels" type, let me know. Between the two of us, I can create one for you, and send you a copy to use wherever. Oh, and I won't charge you for that either. I <3>
Give me the link. Or links, plural. If you have more than one link, send me an additional banner (preferably slightly different so people can see the difference). Need an extra banner for more than one link? See above.

What I'm asking in return:

Link me back. I have two different size banners, one is my ArtFire banner, the other is my ArtFire avatar. Tell me which one you need, and I'll send it to you as well as the link.

That's it. You don't have to send me money or buy something from me or offer a burnt offering (I'm not a god so all you'd do is stink up your house with it anyway =P ). Just link me back, its all I ask.

Send it to karlee@uniquebykarlee.com or contact me through ArtFire!

I have a plan

2009-02-20T07:20:00.002-06:00

I finally have a plan in place after what feels like years of floundering! My previous method wasn't working, and after talking with one of my mentors, we've nailed down the problem, and found a way to fix it.

Before, I would just sew whatever suited me, and list as I saw fit.

Well, there are a couple problems with this, including my motivation. I would have so many things that I wanted to sew, and then would wind up not getting any of it done, or listed. So that is the first step. I've decided to sew (and list) several similar items at a time.

I've also been incredibly frustrated with my own photography skills. I took some prize-winning photographs in my younger days (nothing Pulizter Prize, but I was pretty pleased with purple ribbons, reserve grand champions, and grand champions at the State Fair level!) Lately, it seems that all those lessons we got as a group from one of the best photographers in the area have faded from my memory, sooooo, I called up said photographer (he is also an old family friend) and asked him for some short tips on making my pics better. Not the best, but better.

I now have a DIY light box (please see below for instructions) for my smaller things, and a white sheet, extra lamps, and a 15 page printout of instructions. In other words, I'm armed and dangerous!

Ok, so here's the New and Improved Plan:

-Sew 2 things a day. They have to be similar (like 2 hoodies, or 2 vests, or 2 new aprons, etc), and I can't stop until they are done.
-Photograph all the new items on Saturday evening, when I have my designated "me" time.
-List everything I've sewed for the past week on Sunday morning, and start the new week (on Sunday) by sewing 2 more items.

One week I will focus on dog vests, the next hoodies, the week after that placemats, etc. My mentor suggested that not only is it a good way to build up stock, but keep myself on track and get multiple listings out.

I'm sitting here wondering why I didn't think of this before, and can't come up with a good reason.

So, I'm starting today. I will sew vests this week, similar to the one found here. Next week? I'm not sure, yet. I'll figure it out when I get there.

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Another note: My DIY light box is painfully easy to make.

You'll need:

1 large-ish clear tote (I have plenty of the Sterilite hanging around...filled with fabric!)
1 roll of quilt batting (cheap stuff is ok)
Clear packing tape
Small table lamps (minimum of 2) like this one. Try for lamps that won't have issues with 100w or at least 75w bulbs!
Poster board in white and black.

Wrap the quilt batting around the tote and tape in place. (one layer only...you are trying to soften the light, not kill it completely)
Lay the tote on its side, either the short side or long side, depending on what you are photographing.
Line it with the poster board. White for dark objects, black for light objects. Contrast, contrast, contrast!!
Arrange the lamps outside the box but about 8-10 inches away. This will give you soft shadows!
Place your item in the box and start snapping pictures.

Take pics from different angles, and try not to use the flash on your camera, rely on the lights around your box. If you have an extra lamp, try to keep it out of the picture, but aimed at your fabulous creation inside, this will help eliminante the need for your camera flash which will often create hard shadows.

The more pictures you take, the more you will have to choose from. You can get some free photo editing software from the nice people at GIMP. There are tons of GIMP tutorials online! With your photo editing software, you can touch up your pics and adjust colors to more accurately depict the colors of your item.

*If you are a seamstress like me, and want to show off a snippet of your fabric, you can scan it with a flatbed scanner.

ArtFire!

2009-02-10T13:59:00.002-06:00

I'm relatively new to the world of small business but I have two absolutely wonderful mentors!

I found ArtFire by a fluke, someone shared the link with me, and I joined, and recently went verified. My goal is to use ArtFire exclusively to sell my unique and wonderful crafts as a home business which I hope will eventually turn into a full time job.

I currently have a lot of major tasks in front of me, related to ArtFire. In addition to sewing some fantasic dog vests (I am probably a little TOO excited about that fabric), I need to get things in gear and get them listed!

I just submitted my copyright application for one of my top-secret projects, so it could be a while before I get any of that stock listed.

I'm starting to get excited about this again, despite the personal setbacks I've had lately...and now I've once again found my motivation for sewing in the evenings!