A Baby Chicken

"Treat each customer like they are your best friend, grandmother, and a baby chicken all wrapped in one. Be yourself and joke around, but always be polite and don’t crush or eat them."

The most awesome quote I've read in a long time. From the interview with Allison Cecil of MonkeysAlwaysLook.

Share With You Sunday

Amy's Bridal Shower, originally uploaded by Chimera Creation.

Today I am sharing love, lots of love.
Love for friends at Amy's Bridal Shower. (And love of excessively high hair!)

Love for Josh and Elsa at his 33rd birthday party.

Love for Lincoln Handmade from the Journal Star.

Ahhh Love.

And The Winner Is...

Sarah of Our House is the winner of Chimera Crochet's grand awesome super giveaway. She will get the prize of her choice from either of my two etsy shops!
Congratulations Sarah!

What Am I Excited About?

Well of course I am excited about the huge giveaway week Lincoln Handmade team is having! I am featured tomorrow, so make SURE you come back here and enter for a fab prize!
What else has me feelin it? Well, I was browsing the recently listed items on etsy (towards the bottom of the home page, really, I love this feature) when I saw what appeared to be a large mitten or a oven mitt resting on a computer keyboard. Intruiged and wondering why those two items were together, I clicked! What did I find? A MOUSE MITT!

Seriously, this may not be big news to anyone else, but I thought I was the ONLY person who got 'cold mouse hand' and here was this awesome etsian making a product specifically for my affliction! I was just so surprised, I wrote write away telling them what a great idea they had and asking if I could tell a few more people about it here in my blog. They said yes, so here you go, new product alert from little old me.
P.S. Haha! Check out their WELCOME BACK KOTTER Dolls/Action Figures. Too awesome! And they have a new blog- http://www.baddoggiesblog.blogspot.com/

New at ChimeraCrochet

New, originally uploaded by Chimera Creation.

You can check them out in my flickr stream 1. Pixie, 2. Undead Zombie Cupcake, 3. James, 4. Bunton

Or even more fun- check them out in my shop- http://chimeracrochet.etsy.com The Owlingtons, The Woolingtons and HedgeBalls now have their own sections!!

P.S. Stay tuned to http://lincolnhandmadeteam.blogspot.com for some AWESOME giveaways coming up SOON!

Another One

From Bad Joke Wednesday in the Etsy Forums

"Did you hear about the new cordoroy pillow cases?"

"They're making headlines."

. . . . .

Take The Time

As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.

Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.

The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.

How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:

To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.

To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322

To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.

To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.

To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.

To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.

To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html

To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.

To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.

If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html

And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html

Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.

Naughty Prescription For Love

Naughty Prescription For Love, originally uploaded by Chimera Creation.

New in my shop @ http://chimeracrochet.etsy.com are some Prescription For Love Amigurumi Pills. I have a few different kinds listed. They would make a perfect gift for Valentine's Day!

Call To Action

This coming Monday, January 5, is the deadline for comments to the CPSC. The CPSC has asked for comments regarding component testing and natural materials exemptions! This is our chance to speak directly to the CPSC and push them to include these important additions in the CPSIA/provide your personal feedback on anything that hasn't been touched on. Here is the link to the CPSC forms.

More links and comments in the etsy storque.

CPSIA Amigurumi For Adults?

Discuss here: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5956002

This is from the Child Safety Protection Act, which the new law references.
Intention isn't everything, and apparently, just slapping a "not for children
under 12" tag on your product won't solve the problem.

CHILDREN’S
PRODUCT.--The term “children's product” means a consumer product designed or
intended primarily for children 12 years of age or younger. In determining whether a consumer product is primarily intended for a child 12 years of age or younger, the following factors shall be considered:
(A) A statement by a manufacturer about the intended use of such product, including a label on such product if such statement is reasonable.
(B) Whether the product is represented in its packaging, display, promotion, or advertising as appropriate for use by children 12 years of age or younger.
(C) Whether the product is commonly recognized by consumers as being intended for use by a child 12 years of age or younger.
(D) The Age Determination Guidelines issued by the Commission staff in September 2000, and any successor to such guidelines.

Honestly, until a few months ago, I didn't even consider my items as things children would use. It may sound stupid or naive, but I figured adults were my main client and it wasn't until a customer mentioned purchasing one of my amigurumi for her child that I even realized parents would buy these for children. I buy amigurumi for myself and you can look thru my purchases to see that as an adult, I collect these items.Now more than ever, perhaps I should take out any tags or mention of children in my listings. I really don't have children in mind when I make or market my items. In fact, in talking to my consumers, I know the majority of my items have went for adult use (wedding centerpieces, gifts, desk sitters). That, and the fact that some of my items are clearly for adults (pills, animals chopped in half, etc.) is this really something I need to worry about for my shop, if I am more clear and consistent with my labeling and intended audience?

Today In The Storque, Tonight in the Labs

My chocolate covered cherry is featured in the Storque article! And of course, the article itself is important because... Today at 7pm EST - Online trunk show live in the Virtual Labs, where you'll be able to meet the makers, learn about their process and even see sellers live in their studios via webcams! This is going to be the handmade shopping event of the season, and it's not to be missed!

LINCOLN HANDMADE TEAM will be doing their show at 7pm CST- please stop by and visit with us, okay?

Spinning The Week Away

I keep putting off blogging because there were things I wanted to show you and those things are still on my camera. But apparently they are not that important, because they are still on my camera!
We have been spending the majority of our time inside our house because of the weather. It's been very cold, which isn't a problem itself, but the cold has chosen to pair with either outragous wind or icy rain. So, i've been doing a lot of spinning. It seems to be the only thing that holds my interest, which I suppose is typical of a new craft. I still get this sinking feeling I'm not doing it quite right, so I'm planning on meeting up with another local spinner, Jordan, of Stricken Knits, to give me some pointers this weekend. On the spinning front, I spun through all of the fiber that came with my original spindle, spun through all the fiber I got a few days ago, ordered a new spindle that I'm picking up from the post office this morning, and then ordered two new batches of fiber from two etsy sellers yesterday, hoping that some of it will be here by this weekend for the aformentioned meeting with Jordan. I'm agonizing over what spinning accessories I really need. A ball winder? A Niddy Noddy? A swift? I'm such a novice, I don't want to purchase things I don't REALLY need. If you have suggestions, I'd appreciate them!
Also, I have been getting ready for a small local craft bazaar. I gathered up my stock and practiced laying it out, considered pricing and am aquiring all the other small things I will need for the show, like receipt books. I read a great page of tips this morning for craft shows. I originally saw the link at Marr's page.
And this week, Etsy, Your Place to Buy and Sell Handmade, is going to make craft and internet history on November 13th. On this day, Etsy sellers from around the world will get together to show their wares to a live audience in Etsy's Virtual Labs. Here you'll be able to meet the maker, learn about the process and even see them live in their studio via webcams! With the help of Etsy Teams (groups of sellers who join together to promote Etsy and their work) this is going to be the handmade shopping event of the season, and is not to be missed! Lincoln Handmade will be having their show at 7pm Central time, so DON'T MISS IT!!

A Look At My Favorites

Just because. I have some other things to tell you about, but the accompanying photos are still on the camera. Until then:

The People In My Etsy Neighborhood

Interview Time with Heather!

Q. What is your favorite medium to work with and why?
A. Paint because it brings anything to life and makes reality even seem surreal at the same time.

Q. Name just one favorite...
Band: My Chemical Romance
Food: does Dr. Pepper count? I use it to bake and drink, so it should!
Color: black/red

Q. What is the best experience or the best aspect of being a seller on etsy?
A. You just meet so many wonderful people that are real yet it is the best online marketplace where you can buy and sell items that are handmade, as well as vintage goods and crafting supplies. Nothing can beat Etsy!

Check out her shop!

SERIOUS crafting!

Lisa and Lynette working hard!, originally uploaded by sra_nelson.

This is from our recent Lincoln Handmade meeting! They are SO much fun to go to. Today we were working on banners to display when we do craft shows together. Everyone is so creative and I got some great ideas for other craft projects while I was there. I wish we could meet every week!
See more photos @ Lincoln Handmade Flickr Group!

HedgeBalls

HedgeBalls, originally uploaded by Chimera Creation.

New at ChimeraCrochet- HedgeBalls! Fun, round, soft... grab one up today!

What's Involved In Starting A Small Business?

Last night I started a three day course on starting a small business. The class is intended to be an overview of what a person may be getting themselves into. We had two speakers last night, one on "The Business Plan" and one on "Marketing". I thought I would share my notes as I take the class in order to help others who are interested in starting or improving their small business.

The Business Plan: "Businesses don't plan to fail--they fail to plan."
The first speaker discussed the importance of creating a business plan for yourself. He stressed you should be honest in it and fill it full of information that YOU, as the business owner, should know. He covered the "4 Ps" of the plan, which are: Product, Place, Pricing and Promotion. He said a great business plan will lead to sound business structure, produces a marketing plan, clarifies financial needs and serves as a communication tool. In summary, he compared the plan to a roadmap, it will help you get from point A to point B. It must be accurate, and after you write it, you must USE it. Also, for more help (and free business related templates, including a business plan) he directed us to SCORE, a great and FREE resource for small businesses.

Marketing: Honestly, I didn't get much from this presenter, she wasn't terribly organized. I feel like I've gotten TONS more great marketing tips from the Etsy Forums. The presenter mainly said to do market research, primary (interviews, surveys, focus groups) and secondary (demographics type stuff). She also said to check out your competition and to hire a professional to help with your branding and choice of advertising mediums. As I said, the etsy forums gave me more gems than I got from her presentation!

Cookies and Sawing

Read on about LynetteFast!
1. I see from your shop that you work with a variety of mediums/techniques. What is your favorite and why?
For some reason, sometimes I like to saw. I think it takes my frustrations away. My favorite work it to find really nice stones and use them. It's fun to see the potential in a stone and then make that beauty happen for people to wear. I've always enjoyed seeing the potential in things, even my students at school.

2. What is your favorite dish to cook at home? If you use a recipe, share it!
Now that my every waking extra minute is spent teaching or making jewelry, it's probably Pillsbury cookie dough. Luckily, it makes great cookies and I can fool everyone!

3. What are your goals for your etsy shop and what are some of the main ways you are working to acheive them?
My ETSY shop has become my online connection. I had a website for a couple of years, out there in cyberspace all by myself. It is so much fun to be included with other people who think like me. I like it for the connections it forms. I continue to make connections. I've joined a few ETSY social networking venues called Flickr, LNK Handmade Team, and We Love Etsy to continue making those connections. I'm always open to ideas to traffic more people to my website.

HAWT INTERVIEW

A fun interview trade with loveoneworldzero!

1. You sell a wide variety of things- what do you sell the most of, and does that surprise you?
Yes, a whole ton of variety going on in the shop! Our hot item this year are the Knit or Die bags. In a way that surprises me, I know that knitting is very popular but who knew that there are so many punky knitters in the world!

2. How did you come up with the name for your shop?
Love One World Zero is myself (Reneighborhood) and 100FACE, we have been a couple for 8 years and for the longest time it seemed that people disagreed with our relationship and our dreams so much... we are dreamers, what can I say? Hence the point system.. Love 1 :: World 0.

3. Who are your favorite three musical bands?
Ooohh, the toughie! Many of my musical favorites are based on specific albums but my favorite artists as of today
in no particular order are: The Faces, Daniel Johnston, and Joy Division... aw, Roky Erickson too! I know I broke the rules!

Face it, I'm Whimsical

In my head are dreams of sophisticated felted jewelry, expensive crocheted necklettes in muted tones, luxe toys for rich children... My title font is fancy, my colors are cutting edge in a modern tone on tone way...
But no, I just can't acheive that because I don't think that way in real life. When I'm crafting something, I reach for the glittery purple yarn, not the cream merino wool yarn. When my crochet hook weaves in and out, it makes a jellyfish of four crazy colors, not an organic bamboo yarn scarf.
Harumph! Face it, I'm whimiscal. And I guess that's okay, because that's me, and that's what I enjoy making.