Flirtbuttons

new recipe ROOTBEER CUPCAKES

2011-02-20T19:54:00.008-05:00

I was drooling over some chocolate rootbeer cupcakes I saw online, but thought that chocolate and rootbeer wasn't quite what I wanted. I wanted something that tasted like a rootbeer float. So, creamy and rootbeery and vanilla and yum. I made 3 different icings, first 2 failed miserably. They were good ideas though dang it!!!! The cake recipe only changed a little bit and neither were a fail! I like everything to be as easy as possible and as yummy as possible. I also don't want to be overwhelmed with details. so, here goes the recipe:

The cake:

1. any vanilla or white box cake mix will do

2. replace the water in the recipe with rootbeer. It is best to use regular rootbeer and not diet

3. add 1/2 tsp rootbeer extract (if you can find some)

bake the cupcakes like it says on the box.

let them cool

The icing:

1 stick of butter

7 TBSP rootbeer

1 16 oz box confectioners sugar

1/2 tsp rootbeer extract (if you have it)

Melt butter in pot on stove, add rootbeer, stir, take off stove and add confectioners sugar and extract, beat with beaters or whisk it until thick and smooth. It may seem thinner than what you want, but when it cools it will thicken up. So cool it in the refrigerator until it is a good consistency to ice the cupcakes.

put 5 or 6 rootbeer barrel hard candies in a ziploc bag and crush them.

Ice the cupcakes and then sprinkle the crushed candy on top! Serve to all your adoring fans.

shopping list:

cake mix plus eggs and oil for it

rootbeer, 16 oz. or more

16 oz. box confectioners sugar

rootbeer extract (if you can't find it, the cupcakes will taste excellent, just not hardcore rootbeer)

butter

rootbeer barrel candies

cupcake liners

NEW SHOP TO SHARE

2011-02-15T22:59:00.006-05:00

I know I know, I have been away from my blog so long that I had to dust and rearrange the furniture just to be able to post in here!!!! But, I have something exciting to share. I started a vintage jewelry shop. http://www.flirttreasures.etsy.com/ yes, of course it is on Etsy and it is part of the Flirt collection of shops. I am attaching some pictures to get you excited. I will be listing new items on and off every week. Most items will be vintage and some will be handmade "new" repurposed jewelry made of collaged pieces of vintage jewelry. Come take a peek, bet you fall in love with something.

Christmas in July Sale and Giveaway

2010-07-09T19:38:00.009-04:00

July is here again!!! I am having a Christmas in July sale from now until the end of the month. All my Christmas items are marked down. There are many sellers on Etsy with lots of different Christmas in July sales. Come take a peek! http://www.etsy.com/

So the giveaway!!!! I will be giving away an assortment of 6 Christmas pocket mirrors to one lucky winner. I will choose randomly from all contestants. You get different amounts of entries according to the things that you do.

1. choose your favorite item from my shop and post it here (1 entry)

2. Tweet about the giveaway on Twitter and post here (1 entry)

3. Post about the giveaway on Facebook and post here (1 entry)

4. heart my shop and post here (1 entry)

5. blog about the giveaway and post here (3 entries)

Winner will be chosen on July 31st. Good Luck!!!!!

http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com

YOURTIME on ARTFIRE

2010-06-01T19:30:00.004-04:00

My friend over at Yourtime body treats just opened up her artfire shop and it includes her bath and body products plus her wire wrapped jewelry. She is having a grand opening sale with 20% off!!!! Also, don't forget that if you purchase $10 or more you can get a free lip balm by typing LIP10 into the message to seller.

You may want to get some of her orange chocolate lip balm I got some in the mail this weekend and I have been wearing it ever since. it is nice and smooth and creamy. It is chocolatey without being too sweet. Smells yummy!!!! Okay, so maybe you need 2 of these. That way you can always find it.

She personally makes every piece of handmade jewelry you see in her shop, as well as each small batch of bath and body products. She uses the finest ingredients she can find such as pure Shea butter, fresh honey from her local beekeepers and extra virgin olive oil from Italy. She buys organic and sustainable supplies wherever she can. Most spa products are completely vegan, and everything is vegetarian.

I say go for it!!!!

CUSTOM WEDDING FAVORS

2010-05-31T19:51:00.004-04:00

OHHHHHHH, I was so excited when I saw these posted on Facebook today. I had a customer order 350 4x6 muslin bags and I took her graphics and made a rubber stamp for just her bags. Funny thing is I did not even know they were for a wedding. I don't ask, I just make whatever people want, and happily send it to them. Then I got a phone call from Tudbinks asking about the bags, because they were filling them with some wonderful mints and other herbs. Finally I got 2 and 2 put together and realized they were for a beautiful wedding in Pennsylvania. Actually, quite close to where I grew up. Check out Tudbink's facebook page for more pics.

Here is their website for the property: http://www.helensway.com

Ohhhhh a Giveaway!!!!

2010-05-18T21:46:00.001-04:00

Here is a very fun and crafty blog that is having a giveaway from my Flirtdeux shop. Please go check it out. http://sweettidings.blogspot.com/2010/05/sponsor-giveaway-from-flirtdeux.html#comments

Father's Day is on the Way

2010-05-07T21:54:00.004-04:00

Gosh, I realize it is Mother's Day weekend already, but did you realize that Father's Day is right around the corner? It is Sunday June 20th to be exact. Fathers can be incredibly difficult to buy for sometimes. How many Lowe's gift certificates can you buy them? I try to make sure that I have several different designs of bottle openers in my shop specifically for men. These bottle openers are inexpensive and super handy. They come on a split ring (keyring) so you can hook them to your keys or hang them from a cooler. Maybe you could get Dad a new cooler filled with his favorite brew and then hook one of these cool bottle openers to it. He'll be ready for everything! http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com

ARTBYTRUDY woohooooo!!!!

2010-04-25T14:53:00.000-04:00

I was trolling the forums on Etsy and came across a very fun artist named Trudy. She has the cutest avatar, a cat in a bunny costume. She was looking for someone to do some promotion for her. She is an artist and wants to spend her time painting, not selling!!! Which I can completely understand. So, I told her you go paint, I will sell your wares. I have to promote my own shop, why not promote someone else while I am at it. So, here is the deal, You guys go visit her shop and if you buy something, type ART5 in the message to seller and you will get 5% off your purchase!!! And she will know that I sent you to her shop!!!
Okay, so what is sooooo great about Trudy's art??? Well, several things. I love her colors. Bright and beautiful. She lives on an island in Florida and is surrounded with beautiful color all day everyday. She also has a very fun sense of humor and uses great quotes in some of her work.
What style of art is it? well, I consider it to be in the naive style, often referred to as primitive. An example would be Henri Rousseau's art. here is the wiki definition for it:

The term naïve art is often seen as outsider art which is without a formal training or degree. While this was true before the twentieth century, there are now academies for naïve art. Naïve art is now a fully recognized art genre, represented in art galleries worldwide.The characteristics of naïve art are an awkward relationship to the formal qualities of painting. Difficulties with drawing and perspective that result in a charmingly awkward and often refreshing vision, strong use of pattern, unrefined color, and simplicity rather than subtlety are all supposed markers of naïve art. It has, however, become such a popular and recognizable style that many examples could be called pseudo-naïve.Whereas naïve art ideally describes the work of an artist who did not receive formal education in an art school or academy, for example Henri Rousseau or Alfred Wallis, 'pseudo naïve' or 'faux naïve' art describes the work of an artist working in a more imitative or self-conscious mode and whose work can be seen as more imitative than original."Primitive art" is another term often applied to art by those without formal training, but is historically more often applied to work from certain cultures that have been judged socially or technologically "primitive" by Western academia, such as Native American, subsaharan African or Pacific Island art (see Tribal art). This is distinguished from the self-conscious, "primitive" inspired movement primitivism. Another term related to (but not completely synonymous with) naïve art is folk art.

Wedding Season!!!

2010-04-04T20:41:00.000-04:00

It is that time of year again when my wedding orders start. I absolutely love making favors for weddings. In my new shop, http://www.flirtdeux.etsy.com/ I have many different designs to choose from for my muslin favor bags. I can also customize them with names and dates etc...

My first wedding order was 150 4x6 muslin bags with lighthouses and seashells on them. The couple is getting married at the beach and wanted to put their goodies in a nice, simple, natural bag. These bags are cotton that has been grown in the United States and then woven and sewn in the United States. That was a big plus for me.

Okay so you like the bags and now you want to know what to do with them. Well, they can be used as just a regular old favor bag. You can put all sorts of little trinkets in them. Candy bars have become popular at weddings, tables full of all different candies. You could have these bags for the guests to take their candy home. One couple is buying bulk tea and filling the bags with that. They have picked out a special quote for me to stamp on the bags. Did I mention these bags are food safe? They are also good for sachets of lavender or herbs.

I sell them in a 4x6 inch size but I have recently ordered 3x5 and also 5x7. If you have any questions you can contact me at my Etsy site. If you look in my profile there, you can find my email address. If you prefer to contact me that way. I have bulk pricing on everything I make, just ask.

Very Cute Muslin bags!

2010-03-07T21:27:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to post some more of my 4x6 inch muslin bags. I am having great fun making them. These are perfect for Easter. You can find them and more at my new site: www.flirtdeux.etsy.com Thanks for checking them out.

Guess what I did?????

2010-02-18T01:47:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! I have been on a creative streak for the past 2 months and decided to go wild and start a new shop!!!! Now I am running 2 different shops on Etsy. My new shop is http://www.flirtdeux.etsy.com/ Deux means 2 in French, so it is like an annex of sorts. This shop is all about gift tags, bags and anything else I decide to take a rubber stamp to!!! Or cut on my new Cricut machine. I am out of control with ideas, so please keep checking back on http://www.flirtdeux.etsy.com/ I will be adding to the inventory almost daily. I have been especially working on Easter goodies, because I just adore all the wonderful Easter symbols. Bunnies, chicks, eggs etc.. Everything is just too cute!!!

Meanwhile http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/ is rolling along smoothly and I am adding new goodies and moving things around.

Here is a sale code good for either shop: FLIRT10

Just write that in the message to seller and I will refund your entire purchase 10%, excluding shipping. Good any time you order this year!

New Series of Pocket Mirrors

2010-01-20T20:46:00.000-05:00

Hey there,

I decided to make a new series of pocket mirrors. This one has a very antique feel with a touch of Paris thrown in for good measure. I bought several yards of a great antiqued scroll fabric and then stamped french handwriting all over it. On top of that I have stamped several different images, some of which are from my own rubber stamp designs. So far I have a cafe, a skeleton key, a cup of tea/coffee, a damask heart, a fleur de lis and a crown. There will definitely be more, I ordered more stamps!!!

Wedding Favors

2010-01-16T21:32:00.000-05:00

I have several gorgeous new fabrics that I have been using to make pocket mirrors for wedding favors. I found this fantastic blonde peacock feather pattern and could not leave the store without it. The blue birds I originally bought just to have a nice all over bird pattern, however, I decided it is sophisticated enough for weddings. I always have my white and black damask and several other colorways of damask. Take a peek in my shop at my wedding section. Thanks for looking!

Valentine's giveaway of my mirrors, over on sweettiding

2010-01-14T20:22:00.000-05:00

http://sweettidings.blogspot.com/2010/01/valentine-sponsor-giveaway-dozen.html

Snow in Atlanta, Happy New Year

2010-01-08T12:07:00.000-05:00

Well, it snowed in Atlanta. I decided to put some bird seed out on the deck on top of the snow cover. There is a traffic jam out in the bird seed. the tufted tit mice and chickadees are having issues with the giant blue jays. One blue jay out there is the biggest one I have ever seen. My carolina wren just showed up. He hides under the grill and then darts out and gets seeds. 5 blue jays at once, never saw so many. and the cardinals have decided to get in on it. the lil guy, my son, is laughing and pointing. Our cockatoo is named "Sunshine" and he calls all birds, Sunshine. so he points to each one yelling sunshine, sunshine. the redheaded woodpecker just showed up!

COUNT DOWN TO 2000

2009-12-04T10:24:00.000-05:00

Here I am on December 4th at sale number 1901 on my Etsy site! My goal is to reach 2000 before the end of the year. Actually 2010 would be fantastic!!!!
How did I get here? A lot of marketing!!!!! I found out the hard way that "I" as in me and just me have to do all the marketing myself!!!! I paid for advertising on quite a few sites and I did giveaways on blogs. There is only one blog that has been a steady source of clicks to my site. I of course will keep up with that blog and continue to do giveaways etc. as long as she will have me! All of my paid advertisements were flops, including the $250 Design Sponge ad. Facebook does not work for me either.
What does work for me?
Twitter and Etsy forums. and they are both FREE!!!!!! However, you have to invest time and effort. Once the people come to your site you need to have atleast good pictures, decent descriptions, great prices and excellent customer service. I want people to be happy. I make my products because they are fun.
Come see what I am talking about: www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com
and if you make a purchase, write blog20 in the message to seller and get a 20% refund after purchase. and don't forget I also have buy one get one free pocket mirrors on sale thru December. Check out my announcement at the top of my shop for details.

Thank You for all your support, love my peeps!!! -Sharon

Pocket Mirrors

2009-12-02T18:49:00.000-05:00

hey there,

My December sale is Buy One Get One Free Pocket Mirrors!!!

buy half and list the other half in message to seller, thanks! only applies to single mirror listings, not bulk buy listings

HOLIDAY CUT OFF DATES: for international shipping please order by December 3rd. and for USA shipping please order by December 17th. these are Thursdays, so I can get your order in the mail by that Saturday.

and take a look at the blog my chocolate and light pink damask mirrors are on:

http://www.inspireonlinemagazine.com/

Happy Turkey Day and by the way, I am having a sale

2009-11-28T13:57:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a great turkey day, if they celebrated. Right now I have my Black Friday thru Cyber Monday sale going on. FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING come take a peek http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/

NEW PRODUCT!!!! scarf clips!!!!

2009-11-06T22:36:00.000-05:00

These are so much fun. You just slide it up both ends of your scarf and squeeze the clip together. Such a fun little addition to your wardrobe. Pick from any of my pocket mirror or bottle opener designs and I will make you a scarf clip. Only $9.

2.25 inches fabric or paper covered with mylar on top.

feedback from wholesale order: "Way cool! I've been playing around with them. What fun! Love it with jeans & a turtleneck. It's pretty cool as a sash belt over a boyfriend blazer as well. Can't wait to see everyone's reaction to this accessory! Thank you!"

BRACELETS

2009-10-11T22:00:00.000-04:00

Hey There,

I am on a serious bracelet kick lately!!! I found some new supplies that make my bracelets easier to make, so I am going to town. My list so far:

poodles

gnomes

Alice in Wonderland

pandas

hamsters

sock monkeys

pin up girls

hedgehogs

elephants

geishas

peacock feather

turtles

squirrels

snowmen

owls

lil birds on yellow

birds on blue

ballet

mushrooms

shoes

Write "free mirror" in message to seller and receive a free matching pocket mirror with your bracelet purchase!

wordless wednesday

2009-10-07T08:52:00.000-04:00

GLUTEN FREE PUMPKIN WALNUT CHOCOLATE CHIP MUFFINS

2009-10-03T13:07:00.000-04:00

If you know my household, you know that we love to cook and bake and eat. We are definitely "foodies". Recently we found out that my Mother in Law is no longer able to eat gluten. It has been a difficult period of adjustment for her. It is especially hard because she is Italian and lives in the Northeast. How is she suppose to go without her breads, pastries and pasta? I have made it part of my mission to find tasty alternatives. You don't have to eat cardboard just because they stole your gluten! Soooo, I decided to take one of my all time favorite recipes, that I made up years ago, and make it gluten free. I figured the pumpkin in these muffins would cover up any of the funky flavors that the gluten free flour has. Pumpkin is earthy, yet super yummy. A healthy dose of chocolate chips doesn't hurt either.

Gluten Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffin Recipe

3 1/3 cups Bob’s Red Mill gluten free, dairy free all purpose baking flour
2 cups sugar
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 15oz can Pumpkin
4 eggs
7 oz oil
5 oz water
1 ½ tsp vanilla
1 small bag semi sweet chocolate chips
½ cup walnuts

Put all the ingredients into one huge bowl and with a large spoon mix until no more flour lumps.
Oven temperature should be 350F, preheat if you have time.
Grease 2 muffin pans and pour in batter until each muffin well is almost full. Bake for 20 minutes and then check to see if they are done. Make sure the sides are not burning and that a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
When they are done take them carefully out of the pans and let them cool on racks. Do not get over zealous and burn your mouth on molten chocolate chips.

NEW NEW NEW

2009-09-21T09:35:00.001-04:00

I am in one of my super creative modes and have started designing a million things. No, I don't sleep, if you are asking when I find the time. Sooo, I was going to open a new store on Etsy with all my new stuff. I was concerned about mixing and mingling in Flirtbuttons. But, when I went to get my domain name that I wanted it was already taken. So, I bought 4 domain names of flirtbuttons. I am stuck with it now!!! That's fine, I have built enough of a clientele that people know me by Flirtbuttons and I am hoping they like all my new stuff! You can now get to me by http://www.flirtbuttons.com/, .net, .info and .I don't remember lol. They all just take you to my Etsy shop. For now, not sure if/when I will open up shop on just my url.

I have started to design my own fabrics. Some of the fabrics are just to replace some that are out of print/vintage and have become popular in my shop. Other fabric designs are based on drawings that I have done and wanted to put on mirrors and bottle openers etc.... I will be designing coordinating fabrics for people to purchase in fat quarters and possibly by the yard if they ask nicely!!! The fabrics are printed here in the USA. I am actually originally a textile designer. I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and also a Masters of Science in Textile Design (wovens) I used to work in the corporate world of area rug and carpet design. I also freelanced for years. Now I am putting all of that to my own use. Take a look at the fabrics I have had printed so far. I just love them. More to come!!!!!

Buckles and more buckles!!!

2009-08-13T22:04:00.001-04:00

Hey there,

Sorry I was away for so long!!! I have been super busy with the whole summer vacation and then school started back up and so on and so forth. Just got carried away from my blog.

I had promised one of my customers to make her a whole bunch of assorted belt buckles when I returned from my vacation. Well, I finally put them in the mail to her today. They turned out super fun and fantastic! I also scored a Treasury today on Etsy, so I made it into a belt buckle treasury, how fun is that? Here is the link: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=64557

I have been listing lots of new pocket mirrors also, some come take a peek around the shop!

www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com

custom fabric covered pocket mirrors

2009-07-12T23:23:00.000-04:00

Q. So, why would I have pocket mirrors made with my own fabric???

A. 1. If you make purses , maybe you would like some of your popular fabrics made into pocket mirrors to match your purses. Always a nice extra for your customer to purchase or as a gift. I have several purse designers that send me fabric in the mail and then I make mirrors for them for my wholesale price.

2. Many brides have a theme and favorite fabric that they want me to make pocket mirrors as wedding favors. I have even made some beautiful pendants to match, for the flower girls.

3. You have a boutique, maybe you need some small inexpensive items for impulse purchases at the counter? You could send me fabric you have chosen, or request some styles that would do best in your shop.

I am here to work with you, whether it be for resale, gifts, or just for you to hoard for yourself. I have several repeat custom customers that are happy as pie with my service and products. I am very easy to work with and I am available at all different times of day and night.

Q. What kind of fabric will work?

The thinner the better is my motto for fabric. My machine is very picky and prefers quilt weight cotton fabric. However, some thicker fabrics will work. They need to be smooth and tightly woven.

Q. Can you make something other than pocket mirrors?

Yes I can! You can request to have any of the items in my shop to be made with your fabric. I will let you know if your design will fit or not.

Q. I don't have my own fabric to send you but I know what I want. What do I do?

If you have a theme, color combination or a particular fabric that you want me to use. Just let me know. I usually don't mind purchasing fabric for custom projects, as long as you pay for your items before I buy the fabric. You won't be charged extra for the fabric. In fact some of the designs in my shop are originally from custom orders.

Check out my shop, http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/ and let me know if you need anything, you can convo me thru Etsy or email me at flirtemail@yahoo.com

don't mind me, just coding my blog

2009-07-10T01:10:00.001-04:00

r8a5mw9ciu

FRONTPAGE BABY!!!!!

2009-07-09T18:07:00.000-04:00

My green whale on pink jumbo paperclip/bookmark made it to the frontpage today!!! It was such a pretty frontpage too!!!! Check out my widget to the side. Was glad to see Sunbasilgarden and Beautifulbridget on there with me.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY sale and a giveaway

2009-07-01T00:42:00.000-04:00

CHRISTMAS IN JULY SALE!!!! MAJOR DEALS AND STEALS FROM JULY 1ST THRU THE 14TH. ALL POCKET MIRRORS AND BOTTLE OPENERS BUY ONE GET ONE FREE, REFUND AFTER PAYPAL PAYMENT

I am really excited about my Christmas in July sale. I have been waiting for it for a few months. I made a new banner and avatar just for the occasion. and of course, I think it is time for a giveaway!!!!!

What you could win: 6 assorted Christmas fabric covered pocket mirrors.

These will be great add ons to gifts or stocking stuffers or something for the girls at the office.

How do you win them????? Here are 4 different ways to enter the raffle.

1. make sure you are a follower of my blog, comment to tell me so (worth one ticket)

2. check out my etsy shop and comment here to tell me which design you would like to see as a bracelet (worth one ticket)

3. Follow me on twitter and comment here to tell me (worth one ticket)

4. Buy something from my shop during my sale and comment here to tell me (worth 2 tickets)

Plenty of options! Can't wait to read all your comments!

GIVEAWAY ENDS JULY 14TH

My Inspiration

2009-06-28T10:01:00.000-04:00

This is why I have a shop on Etsy and teach college online.

weekend deal

2009-06-26T08:54:00.000-04:00

June 26-28 all jewelry including earrings, bracelets, pendants and rings 30% off. Type weekend deals in message to seller and receive 30% refund after purchase with Paypal. June 26-28

Jury Duty

2009-06-25T09:39:00.000-04:00

First the good stuff: FREE SHIPPING if you mention jury duty in message to seller, I will refund paypal after purchase. www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com .
This week is my week of civic duty. I was summoned to court to spend the week on call for jury duty. Jury duty is different all over the place and for different types of juries.
Mine started Monday morning at 8:30 a.m. with 95 other people in the county courthouse. I looked around, and let me tell you I was astounded that the only people there were caucasian, no blacks, no asians, no minority whatsoever. I would also say it looked like 2/3rds men. And, all I can say is, bring a book, a laptop and a sense of humor. You may also need a pillow for your sore butt. I am serious about that. Courthouses have metal detectors etc. so make sure to empty all the crap out of your purse, and items you really don't need people knowing about. Wear sensible clothes and no metal, or you get the wand treatment. They will lecture you about the history of jury duty and how you are doing the world a major favor. Then they will let you sit and rot until they figure out which cases need a jury. You will be sorted into groups of 12 and given a number. We were split into 8 groups. Group 8 only had 6 people because the other 6 failed to show up for their civic duty. Do you know what happens to you when you don't show up???? A warrant is put out for your arrest and you can spend 10 days in jail. This is a fact. I won't get into details, but I do know someone that has served the time. So, make sure you show up. On the first day groups 1,2 and 3 went up for interrogation for the first court case. The rest of us sat there until 4:15 p.m. doing absolutely nothing. I had lunch with my friend that works in the courthouse. I had brought 2 books. I read about 30 pages of the first one and decided it wasn't worth reading. I started the second one and realized that I had already read it. Luckily I brought a sudoku book, and worked out a few of the puzzles. I would have brought my 2 month old laptop but my hard drive had died the previous Thursday and I was waiting for a replacement. That is a whole other blog post. Some guy sat up front with his feet up on a table. He fell asleep and was snoring so loud that one of the clerks came in and woke him up. We are talking ultimate boredom. It is nice and airconditioned though. So for all you thin girls not experiencing menopause, bring a sweater. At the end of the day they come in to dismiss you and tell you to call the jury hotline after 6 p.m. It gives instructions for the next day. My group was told to show up at 9 a.m. at the courthouse. By 9:30 a.m. we were lined up and brought up to a courtroom. In the court were courtworkers, state prosecuters, the judge, 2 defense attorneys and the accused. I looked at him and decided he had either stolen money from a business or corporation or that he was a child molester. He was too clean cut for anything else. Sadly, it turned out that he was accused of child molestation, and we all groaned. No one wants to sit in on that case. We were split into 2 groups of 18 and then the first group sat in the jury box and was interrogated for 2.5 hours. Meanwhile we sat on the hardest most unforgiving wooden benches ever known to man. I am not a thin woman, and I had to sit on my hands because my butt was so sore. When I say interrogated, I really mean it. You will have to answer all sorts of personal questions about you, your family, and your friends. Meanwhile about 45 people are listening, including the accused. When it was my turn up in the interrogation box, I mean jury box, I made sure to let the defense attorney and his client know that I did not like them or the case. Because I truly did not like the defense attorney. He did not look us in the eye when he spoke to us and he asked questions that had absolutely nothing to do with the case. I felt he was trying to play head games, and I just don't go down that road. When they picked the jury for the case they did not pick nurses, lawyers, people with a colorful past, or me. In fact, the accused laughed when they called on me to tell me whether I was accepted or excused. It was a great relief to all of us that were excused. We left and went home to our families happy as can be to not have to listen to that case. So, Tuesday night I called the jury hotline and they told me I did not have to come in on Wednesday. I called Wednesday night and they told me I did not have to come in on Thursday, today. I will have to call tonight, about tomorrow. I doubt they will need me on Friday. So, if you don't want to sit on the jury for a case, make sure to have an attitude. A nurse with an attitude would be even better. If half the people in your family have been to court and or jail, you won't be sitting on the jury either.

Getting to 1000

2009-06-13T16:07:00.000-04:00

my first sale

Goals and more goals. I started http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/ on June 13th, 2008. My first goal was to make enough money to buy a 2nd button making machine. I had deliberated and pained over the first machine purchase. Each machine makes a different size button. I wanted the one inch machine and the 2.25 inch machine. I settled on the 2.25 inch machine because I wanted to make pocket mirrors. So, I set the goal that when I made enough money using the first machine that I could buy the 2nd one. To my surprise it only took me 3 weeks to make the money!!! I got some big orders and voila, enough money to buy the one inch machine. Meanwhile my friends and family thought I was crazy. A button making business? They obviously had no idea the amount of thought and research I had put into it. Not to mention my online selling experience. I was totally stoked having both machines. I started making all kinds of stuff, and taking over the whole house with all my fabric and paper and supplies!!!

My next goal was to hit 500 sales by the 6 month mark. Which just happened to also be my son's first birthday. He was the reason I started the button business in the first place. The age old dream of staying home with your children and making money. For me it is not a dream, it is a reality. I also teach college online. Both of my jobs are done completely at home. Back to the goal, I made it. In fact I did more than 500 sales by the 6 month mark.

The next goal was the big 1000 by my one year anniversary, also known as an etsyversary on Etsy. I knew that I could do it, but it has definitely taken a lot of marketing. It is not easy to make money after Christmas. You have to really work hard at marketing your products. One of my advantages is that I don't get a lot of sleep due to all the different things in my life that take up my time. Therefore I can be online at all different hours of the day and night. This makes me accessible to the West coast, the East coast and overseas. My sales are from all over the world. If someone asks me a question at midnight, it is quite likely that I will answer them right away. Same story goes for 8 a.m and 2 p.m., sometimes even 4 a.m. Also, because I am online for my other job, I usually leave my Etsy site open so I can check on it while I am working. Needless to say, I have worked hard and I have made my goals for my first year on Etsy.

Now I guess I better set some new goals!!!

June 13th My Etsyversary

2009-06-13T00:03:00.000-04:00

~~~~~~HAPPY ETSYVERSARY TO ME, HAPPY ETSYVERSARY TO ME~~~~~~~ ALL POCKET MIRRORS AND BOTTLE OPENERS BUY ONE GET ONE FREE. PURCHASE ONE AND WRITE WHICH ONE YOU WANT FOR FREE IN MESSAGE TO SELLER. GOOD FROM NOW UNTIL JUNE 14TH.

More matchy matchy zipper bags and pocket mirrors etc.

2009-06-10T21:52:00.000-04:00

I found some more matching items in my shop: http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/ and my friend's: http://www.madamecupcake.etsy.com/ Come see all our wonderful goodies.

2009-06-08T10:17:00.000-04:00

Hey there Everyone!!!!

I have been a twittering fool lately and have become friends with MadameCupcake! She has a great little Etsy shop with lots of wonderful handsewn items and especially zipper pouches. These guys are perfect for makeup etc...

When searching her shop I came across some of the very same fabrics that I make my pocket mirrors out of. Here are a few for you to check out. I love matchy matchy stuff!!! In fact I love it so much that I have ordered some of the fabrics that she uses so that we can have more matching items!!! How great is that??? So take a peak at her shop: http://www.madamecupcake.etsy.com/ and at mine http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/

2009-05-29T10:20:00.000-04:00

BIG BIRTHDAY SALE FRIDAY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY!!!!!MY BDAY IS THE 31ST ~~~ALL SINGLE ITEMS BUY ONE GET ONE FREE~~~ (EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE FOR THE FREE ONE) I WILL REFUND PAYPAL AFTER PURCHASE

2009-05-27T21:53:00.000-04:00

Hey there everyone,

I am in the midst of my Father's Day bottle opener sale!!!! Buy a bottle opener in my shop and then write which one you want for free in the message to seller. I have several masculine bottle openers for dear old dad, but I have some very cute feminine openers for the ladies. Maybe your freebie can be for you??? My sale runs from now until June 7th. Take a peek in my bottle opener section to see all my openers.

BELT BUCKLES brand spanking new product!!!! and yes, of course, a giveaway!!!

2009-04-29T16:32:00.001-04:00

I had this idea that I needed to do belt buckles. I mean, how cool would that be? My buttons are the perfect size, 2.25 inches round. Soooo, I found all the parts and put it all together. It took a few weeks to get exactly what I needed. Now, I have it all going on. My daughter wanted the British Flag so I started with that one.

This buckle is on a 1.5 inch black leather belt from Tandy leather. I am not going to be selling the belts, just the buckles. Go ahead and get yourself exactly what you want belt wise. These belts are made with 2 screws that come undone so you can put the buckle on it. This way you can buy as many buckles as you want, but you only need one belt. There are a few people selling these types of belts on Etsy. You need it to be about 1.5 inches in width.

You can order just about any of my designs to go on a belt buckle. I will make a custom listing so you all can just tell me what you want. I'm thinking pink sugar skull? or maybe Hello Kitty playing guitar? I don't know, you tell me.

Okay, the giveaway part. I am going to give away one belt buckle to a random lucky winner on Monday May 11th. What to do to be a part of the drawing:

1. Check out my etsy shop http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/ and heart my shop (add as a favorite)

2. Pick your top 3 designs that you would want as a belt buckle, from any pocket mirror or bottle opener design, and list them here on the blog as a comment.

3. Follow my blog

okay so that's it, just 3 things. easy peasy schmeasy.

Can't wait to hear from you. -Sharon

Happy Easter and there is a winner!!!!

2009-04-12T12:40:00.000-04:00

Hey there, Hope you have a great Easter. Our weather is gorgeous here in Georgia today! I wanted to announce my baby shower favor giveaway winner, tah dah it is Mama Koala!!!!

FREE SHIPPING IN APRIL, TO ANYWHERE

2009-04-02T09:03:00.001-04:00

I am running a free shipping to anywhere special. I figured since there is always a lot of complaining about shipping internationally, that I ought to help everyone out. If you would like free shipping, please take a peek at my shop!

It's April, time for a baby shower favors Giveaway

2009-04-01T09:30:00.001-04:00

Well, we have made it to April yet again! Today in the Atlanta, Georgia area it is raining and raining and raining. We aren't suppose to complain due to the drought, but come on people I'm starting to grow webbing between my toes. So, it made me think about showers and that made me think baby showers and then how about a giveaway of some of my baby shower pocket mirrors???? So, here goes. To enter the drawing for 6 assorted baby shower favors you must do the following:

1. follow my blog (worth one entry)

2. check out my etsy shop and come back here and comment on atleast one item (worth one entry) http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/

3. follow me on twitter, www.twitter.com/flirtbuttons (worth 2 entries)

4. check out my friends on the Booty BNR, run by creativehook, in the etsy promotions forum, and come back here to comment on atleast one shop on the BNR list (worth 3 entries)

winner will be announced on Saturday April 11th, 2009 good luck!!!!

Hope you have a great Spring.

some sales!

2009-03-21T13:16:00.000-04:00

~~~~~~~~~~MARCH MIRROR MADNESS~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BUY 2 GET 1 FREE,

JUST TELL ME WHICH ONE YOU WANT FOR FREE, IN MESSAGE TO SELLER

$$$$ a little economic stimulus, look around my shop for some super deals and steals, I am going to lower prices on different items at different times and different days take a look$$$$

Baby shower time!!!!!

2009-03-19T09:07:00.000-04:00

It is really beginning to look like spring out there! Thank goodness. Here in Atlanta we have seen a few days close to 80 degrees. It feels sooooo good after such a cold winter. It looks like it is that time again when all those beautiful little spring babies will be arriving. Are you planning a baby shower for anyone? Do you have to go to a baby shower soon? I have some wonderful shower favors that are just perfect for spring. These pocket mirrors can also be added to a diaper bag as a gift.
My absolute favorite is a cute little pink umbrella fabric covered pocket mirror. Many women buy it just because they like it and not because someone is having a baby. When I asked questions last month about favors people chose my Bambi mirror as a perfect favor for a baby shower. I never even thought about it!!!
Take a peek around my shop and see what you would like. I offer them by the each, half dozen or dozens. Convo me with any special requests I am always happy to help.

WEDDING SEASON AND A GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-02-26T12:45:00.000-05:00

Hey there,
Sharon here. I am working very very hard on wedding favors. I have several gorgeous fabrics that I have been using on my pocket mirrors and selling them for wholesale prices to brides to be. Some brides buy them by the 100's to hand out as favors at the reception. Other brides buy them for their bridesmaids as thank you gifts. Sometimes they put them in with other little goodies in a gift bag. My other pocket mirror wedding sales have been to Bridal shops, to give out at all the bridal trade shows and expos. So, whether you need 1, 12 or 500 I can do the job! Just convo me in Etsy or email (flirtemail(at)yahoo.com).

Now for the give away part!!!! If you do the following steps, you will be put in a drawing to win 6 of your favorite pocket mirrors from my shop!!!! The random winner will be notified on Thursday March 5th!!!! One week from now!

Here's what to do:
1. comment on this blog
2. follow this blog
3. go to my etsy shop and convo me the answers to the following:
(you will have to register if you aren't already an etsy buyer or seller)
1. what your favorite pocket mirror is?
2. which is the best pocket mirror for a wedding favor?
3. which is the best pocket mirror for a baby shower?
4. How did you find my blog?
5. what are your favorite flowers for a wedding?

so that's pretty easy!!!! and you don't have to live in the United States to win!

Giveaway on 1girlinparadise blog!!!!!

2009-02-16T11:50:00.000-05:00

Go to Amy's blog and see the bracelet you could win.

http://1girlparadise.blogspot.com

Valentine's Day Sale

2009-02-14T10:53:00.000-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
free shipping on all purchases over $20 to any destination in the world. just for today!

WEDDING SEASON IS ON IT'S WAY!!!!!

2009-02-11T12:16:00.000-05:00

I have been working on some wholesale orders for weddings. I have so many items that are just perfect little wedding favors or bridal shower favors. I even have some great stuff for a bachelorette party. I love to do wholesale orders and you don't have to be a retailer to get in on my wholesale pricing. All you need to do is order 12 or more of the same type of item. I have listed several photos of my popular wedding items. Let me know if you need anything.

flirtemail (at) yahoo.com

CUPCAKES CUPCAKES CUPCAKES

2009-02-10T13:41:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite subjects is cupcakes. I just love them. I make them all the time for friends and family. The women yell at me about the calories and the men just eat them by the handfuls. So, I have made several items with cupcake fabric. They are horribly nonfattening and not delicious to eat at all. But they are so darn cute!!!!! My favorite fabric is this great pink with cupcakes. Here are some other items I found on Etsy made with the same fabric.

1. Very cute patchwork scarf by http://www.madamecupcake.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16096243

2. An adorable little reversible pinafore by http://www.sugarflower.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13998968

3. A great little girl's headband by http://www.sweatp07.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17212181

4. The fanciest tutu dress ever, by http://www.sdemke.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19599366

5. and last but not least this awesome purse by http://www.purseona.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11552188

Hope you love them!!!!

Pink and Green Whales make a comeback!

2009-02-04T22:36:00.000-05:00

Careful this blog post might give you 80's flashbacks!!!! I found this great pink fabric with little green whales and just had to have it. Now it is making it's way onto everything in my shop. I took a look around Etsy to find items to go with it, and here is what I found:

1. Embroidered Preppy Whale Hair Bow by http://www.thesouthernbaby.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19884724

2. Green and Pink Whale Ribbon Dog Collar by http://www.hadsandjacks.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18135339

3. http://www.charlieandsarah.etsy.com/ have this great tshirt with an appliqued whale:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17166027

4. a little needlepoint whale keyfob by http://www.prettypetunia.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14580677

5. The cutest little polka dot appliqued little girl's shirt by http://www.thetrendytot.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19577092

6. The trendytot also has this great little dress:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20365905

Amy Butler Trailing Cherry Fabric

2009-01-28T09:25:00.000-05:00

Amy Butler's Trailing Cherry Fabric is one of my most popular fabrics on pocket mirrors. The oriental appeal with the nice pinks and chocolate brown background make it a perfect all round fabric. And of course it is also part of a whole line of great fabrics that match. Here are some wonderful handmade items on Etsy made of the same fabric:

1. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16133127 a cute purse made by http://www.gardenhouseboutique.etsy.com/

2. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19088238 really nice headband made by http://www.purplelicious.etsy.com/ for $9

3. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17702616 another great purse, this one is by: http://www.atouchofstardust.etsy.com/

4. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17907387 a key fob to go with all the purses by: http://www.sewmuchdetail.etsy.com/ for $6.50

5. a bag, for books or for a purse http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15911404

by http://www.dottedblissbags.etsy.com/

Hope you get out there and check out everything on Etsy!!!!!

Mardi Gras wooohooooo it's coming February 24th

2009-01-25T14:15:00.000-05:00

Okay, well seeing as I use to be a preschool teacher, I have a big thing for holidays. I love to create a million different little projects all based on the same theme!!! In keeping with this I thought I would start doing some of my blogs theme related. Some of my latest items are fabric covered Mardi Gras bottle openers. I went on Etsy and found several other items handmade from the same fabric. Here are all the goodies I found.

1. http://www.jinxyheadbands.etsy.com/ has this great headband for $7:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12619235

2. http://www.crazyrebecca.etsy.com/ has a crazy quilt kit for $27.50

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20044987

3. http://www.hugsandholidays.etsy.com/ has a nice tote bag for $5

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18018853

4. my most unusual find is this shopping cart cover by http://www.michaelmooodesigns.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15084070

then of course there are my bottle openers at $3.50 each :

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20182609

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19787489

January's SPOTTEDBOX

2009-01-22T11:24:00.000-05:00

Hey there. I participated in January's spottedbox and received a box in the mail on Monday. Some seriously fast shipping I might add. So, here is the context of my box:

1. a hair tie from http://iheartbowheads.blogspot.com I will keep this for my neice, she loves hair doodads.
2. www.fishnoodles.com the cutest little 3-6 month size painted tshirt. it's too small for my son but it will make a great baby gift for the next bundle of joy.
3. www.sewingalley.com sent some handmade play dough. I haven't shown it to my daughter yet. She will love it. I like the texture a lot. It feels smooth and soft.
4. www.creativitykes.com a diaper insert/doubler with 3 layers. It is very well made and looks nice and soft. I will keep this in my next bundle of joy gift pile.
5 and 6. www.thelittlelovebug.etsy.com I received 2 items this month and they were both felt and embroidery hairclips, one is a flower and the other is a cupid. I am putting these in the pile for my neice, she will love them.
7. bath salts and a coupon from www.willowlakescents.etsy.com Looks like a good amount for my next tub soak, or maybe my daughter's. She likes bath stuff.
8. A nice animal print face wipy from www.hyenacart.com/2by2boutique I give these things as gifts to one of my friends because she just loves to be pampered. had a coupon too.
9. I just looked at an empty plastic bag from www.polkadottedpickle.com and thought huh???? Then I realized that when I looked through the box I snagged the hair scrunchy and put it in my hair immediately. Needless to say the bag is empty because I'm wearing the item as I type. It fits my hair perfectly, I have a hard time finding the right size hair doo dads for my thick hair.
10. www.fluffnflowers.etsy.com sent me some lavender rose of sharon seeds. I will wait til it is warmer and plant them out back.
11. www.glorybeherbals.etsy.com sent some patchouli orange bath salts. I'm thinking I might need to get a basket for all my bath goodies. This smells very nice and was well labeled.
12. Just found something else from www.fishnoodles.com very cute diaper cover!!! size small, so it will be going in my new bundle of joy bin. I have the same fabric in my shop, must have been a good one! Did I mention how well made it is?????
13. www.hyenacart.com/babygo a very nice wipe/washie for my lil guy. Even has a firetruck pattern on it. He loves these wonderful washies we keep receiving in our spottedboxes. In fact I made myself leave it in the box so I wouldn't forget to put it in the blog.
14. from Earth School www.kandfshops.com I received a sampler card of activities based on Winter Wonderland.
15. Yet another great hairclip from www.socialbutterflies.etsy.com got one before and loved it!!!
16. pinback button from www.butteredparsnips.etsy.com
17. a reversible potholder/hotpad knitting pattern from http://hyenacart.com/jekuthielsgifts
my friend has been knitting scarves like a madman, maybe she can switch to these?
18. 5.00 gift certificate to www.themeltingpotcandleco.com I will have to go take a look around!!!!
19. Another $5 gift certificate to http://hyenacart.com/closetonqueencreek I have no idea what they sell, so I will have to go take a peek at that shop also.
20. 2 really fun cards with envelopes from www.dfmidesigns.com great sense of humor, I will need to send these out to my friends.
21. very cute owl face wipy from http://hyenacart.com/princessjuliannescloset my lil man will love this. I might use it for his new daycare induced runny nose.
22. Breathe Easy Massage Oil from http://hyenacart.com/scentsorycreations poerfect for this time of year when everyone is all stuffed up
23. Greenapple soap sample from www.hyenacart.com/breezybugboutique perfect for the guest bathroom.
24. Apple Jack and Peel laundry detergent from Jenny's Simply Clean. I don't see a web address. If someone has it, please add it in comments. thanks
25. Pretty little swarovski crystal earrings from www.sherry19682008.etsy.com These will go to my friend for Valentine's Day.
26. www.bittyfluff.com sent a sample of Jenn's Simple Clean diaper pail freshener. I will be putting this in my kitchen trash can. It really helps.
27. concentrated all purpose cleaner from www.picnicbasketcrafts.etsy.com
28. www.hyenacart.com/tiffanystrinkets sent a toddler bracelet. Will keep this for the neighbor's baby. Maybe my son can give it to her for Valentine's Day, hehehehehe
29. www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com hey, that's me! got a valentine's 2.25 inch magnet!!!!
14.
10.

1/15/09 THE BOOTY BNR

2009-01-15T21:35:00.000-05:00

Hey there, I want to write about my favorite group of people on Etsy. I don't know if you know what a BNR is, but BNR stands for Buy and Replace. Someone starts a BNR by listing it under promotions in the Etsy forum. Then they get a group of shops to sign up. There are several ways to go about this, and there are usually different rules. So, a list of shops gets started and they continue to promote themselves on the BNR thread in forums, under promotions. Buyers will come along and buy from someone on the list. The buyers shop then replaces the shop they purchased from, on the list. To get back on the list, you have to purchase from a shop on the list. Usually the person that started the BNR is considered to be the host and stays on the list no matter who buys from them or how much is bought. I hope this explains BNR.

The BNR that I participate in is called The Booty BNR. Booty actually stands for booted, because if you don't sign in within a 24 hour period of time, you will get booted off the list.

Here is the most recent list and rules etc. for our BNR

PLEASE NOTE: It's called the Booty bnr, because you'll be booted if you don't check in from 7pm to 7pm) Twenty four hour check in rule will be strictly enforced.PLEASE DO NOT BUY ON TO THIS BNR IF YOU DO NOT CHECK IN WITHIN THE 24 HOUR TIME SPAN....
The Simple Basics: If you’re on the list and someone buys from you, you’re off! (until you buy back on again)
1. To buy in: $4.50 MINIMUM PURCHASE (before shipping)
2. Thread Monitor’s name stays on list.
3. You MUST state which shop you intend to buy from before you make your purchase. (please make sure the shop you’re calling is on the CURRENT LIST!)
4. Post your transaction here after purchase. (You're on the list! Remember to update sales total)
5. You may ONLY be listed on this list ONCE, regardless of number of purchases!6. Promoting this thread is required! Get a "x1" by your name for each shop you bring to our BNR.7. YOU are responsible for giving yourself a (*) each day when you check in for the first time. If you don't have a (*) by your shop name you may be booted.
--------------------------------------------------THE PERKS: You may get a "x1" by your name if you bring in a new shop to buy from our list! Two shops? then you get a "x2" and so on... Recruitment is KEY for the success of our BnR!YOU GOT BOOTED??? One of the forgiving things about the booty bnr is that if you bring a new member to join the list (by making a purchase) , you get back on the list yourself (without making another purchase) Applies only to those who have gotten the boot.----------------------------------------------------------======>>>>>> Shops neglecting to check in (or convo Hook) for a 24 hour period WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE LIST! (This will be strictly enforced). No excuses.BOOTY time is 7pm every afternoon!
Here’s the list!1. CreativeHook.etsy.com *
2. cardsandnotes.etsy.com or jsjewelry.etsy.com*
3. philosofickle.etsy.com *
4. kuteklipboardsbyamy.etsy.com *
5. KimsBeads.etsy.com *
6. flirtbuttons.etsy.com or hare.etsy.com *
7. ConcordSoap.etsy.com *
8. GoAskMalice.etsy.com or TheCrochetGrocer.etsy.com *
9. DesignsbyDanna.etsy.com *
10. sandyssundries.etsy.com *
11. bagsnstuff.etsy.com *12.
MonkeyThreads.etsy.com *
13. debsbeaddesigns.etsy.com
********************* 227 sales *****************
MonkeyThreads made a fantastic BNR treasuryhttp://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=33334

12/28/08 January will be custom month!!!

2008-12-28T12:59:00.000-05:00

January will be custom month!!! Let me know if you need anything in your own fabric, graphics, pictures or even words.Perfect time to get shop promos. I have always done custom work, but didn't want to advertise it in my busy holiday season. Now that things have slowed down, I can focus on custom work!!!!!

Q. So, what would I have made if I wanted to do something custom???
A. 1. If you make purses , maybe you would like some of your popular fabrics made into pocket mirrors to match your purses. Always a nice extra for your customer to purchase or as a gift. I have several purse designers that send me fabric in the mail and then I make mirrors for them for a very low price!!!
2. You are an artist and would like to have some smaller, less expensive items to sell or give out with your images on them. You could have magnets made in 2.25 inch or 1 inch sizes, pocket mirrors, bottle openers, pin back buttons or even jewelry. Just take a look around my shop at all the possibilities. Your artwork makes great promos and gifts for relatives. Some people really don't know what to do with a full size painting or print. Originals can be cost prohibitive, but magnets are definitely affordable. All you would have to do is email me your artwork, or let me choose from your website. I have put together some great starving artist beginner packs for as low as $20 including shipping. Just so you know, I have a B.F.A. and an M.S. in textile design and I am very profficient with Photoshop.
3. You own a shop and maybe you need some promos. I can put your logo on anything I make, and if you buy in quantity, like 12 or more, I can give you a wholesale rate.
4. You are getting married, maybe you need a save the date magnet for people to put on their refrigerators. What an excellent reminder. You might like photos of the bride and groom and the date on any of my items??? Many brides have a theme and favorite fabric that they want me to make pocket mirrors as wedding favors. I have even made some beautiful pendants to match, for the flower girls.
5. You have a boutique, maybe you need some small inexpensive items for impulse purchases at the counter? You could send me fabric you have chosen, or request some styles that would do best in your shop.

I am here to work with you on your needs, wishes, wants and dreams. Whether it be for resale, gifts, or just for you to hoard for yourself. I have several repeat custom customers that are happy as pie with my service and products. The pictures included in this post are from my customers.

12/13/08 Ian turns 1

2008-12-15T19:39:00.000-05:00

I need a tshirt that says I survived Ian and Chloe's birthday party!!!! It was a major undergoing for us, the parents. The kids and the guests had tons of fun and lots of food. I am including pics of Ian as the big boy 1 year old!!!!

12/07/08 YESSSS More Holiday Shopping!!!

2008-12-07T23:56:00.001-05:00

This time of year is absolutely insane for me. With 2 children born in December and Christmas on it's way, the shopping is out of control. So, I am adding to my list of wonderful items that I have purchased from Etsy. These are in no particular order.

1. I had http://www.monkeythreads.etsy.com/ design some cute little snowmen for me, take a look she has them in her shop now. She makes wall/window vinyl decals. I also bought her snowflakes. They all look awesome on my windows. Monkey is a great person and part of my very fun BNR group: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5912408&page=1
2. http://www.pamperedponytails.etsy.com/ beyond being part of my BNR group she is also a really nice person!!! One of my favorites, like good ol monkey. I bought some of her christmas matchbook, notepads. they are too cute.
3. Then also from my BNR I got a set of mini S and P shakers that are painted glass from http://www.sandyssundries.etsy.com/
4. Kristy joined us for a bit from http://www.kristyredbarnbakery.etsy.com/ and I drooled for days over her cowboy cookies, then I did it, I bought them. These were suppose to be birthday treats, but we scarfed them down in no time. SSSSOOOOOO DDEELLIICIIOUUSSSSS
5. Ordered some more soap, yes shoot me now, or enjoy how fresh and clean my whole family smells!! from http://www.concordsoap.etsy.com/ (yes from my BNR)
6. More gift bags from http://www.emjdesign.etsy.com/ (yes, from my BNR) I liked the first batch so much that I bought more.
7. http://www.sheltie19.etsy.com/ (oh god, another BNR buddy) I bought her lip balms because I was told they were the best. I am the queen of chapped lips, so I will be the judge of that!!! lol
8. Bought another bicycle shirt for my dear old dad. http://www.screamprinting.etsy.com/ He's a bicycle fanatic
9. http://www.youreinspired.etsy.com/ My son has been walking around with an ear of corn made of felt and he just loves it. He even stores it in the cabinet with the canned foods. So, when I saw this set of breakfast felt foods, I decided to go for it. He will get them for his big boy 1 yr. old birthday this weekend.
10. http://www.victorianlowbrow.etsy.com/ had a great absinthe print, I got for my husband. He's known for drinking absinthe. He will love this print.
11. http://www.sandyssundries.etsy.com/ yes again!!! I bought a pair of light brown fingerless gloves for you guessed it, ME ME ME and yes she is part of my BNR
12. http://www.leastlikelytobreed.etsy.com/ Noooo I didn't get this as a present but out of necessity, I bought their Bad Ass Booty Balm, diaper cream for my lil guy's sore bottom.
13. http://www.woodtoyshop.etsy.com/ okay, I succombed, they have catapults!!!! I bought 2, and some fun wooden race cars. I have nephews that will die for this stuff.
14. http://www.panicmama.etsy.com/ what do you get a 16 year old boy???? I got him a sterling silver guitar pick with his name engraved in it. He will love it.
15. Then I went to http://www.southtone.etsy.com/ and got a guitar pick made from a vinyl record , cool huh?

I just hope it all gets here in time, and that it is as perfect as I think it will be!!!
Please leave comments and questions, I love to hear from all you all.

ART SALE IN ATLANTA FOR THE HUMANE SOCIETY

2008-11-29T14:27:00.000-05:00

ART SALE IN ATLANTA FOR THE HUMANE SOCIETY!!!!!

Thi s is a great show to attend. It will be perfect for all that last minute holiday shopping. Please come by if you are in the area.

Also, any sales in my shop www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com that day, Sunday December 14th will have 20% of the proceeds go to the Humane Society.

BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING stores I have bought gifts from

2008-11-28T10:53:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of Black Friday I thought I would give a run down of stores that I have purchased gifts from. These may have been birthday or Christmas. I have a lot of December and November birthdays in my family. I may or may not say exactly what I purchased because SOMEONE MIGHT READ IT!!!!! I'm just saying. Also, I have tried my best to purchase handmade items by artisans and craftsmen. These are not in any particular order they just are what they are.

1. I will start with http://www.stelabird.etsy.com/

She makes some of the cutest little owls and yetis. My daughter is a huge fan of yetis.

2. My latest purchases are from http://www.jamjamtees.etsy.com/ I was able to find 3 different items for 3 different people and all so incredibly reasonably priced. Check out Aaron's tees they are pretty funny.

3. http://www.vermontmaple.etsy.com/ I am a sucker for maple. Maybe it's from all my time spent in Vermont, I don't know. But the maple candies are to die for.

4. http://www.catzinthehouse.etsy.com/ very cute handmade wood trucks and cars. ohhh and a helicopter too. I have my little boy and my nephew to shop for and I hate buying stuff made in China. I have issues with the poisonings and them taking away all our manufacturing.

5. http://www.clickityclack.etsy.com/ some more handmade wood cars and trucks for the little guys. I'm still working on acquiring a garage. I'm thinking I might find a bread box at the Goodwill that will work nicely. I'll just paint it up to look like a garage.

6. http://www.creativehook.etsy.com/ she is one of my favorite friends on etsy. I bought some very cool multicolor fingerless gloves from her. She makes all her own crochet items.

7. http://www.debralinker.etsy.com/ she has some very nice paintings and prints, please take a look.

8. http://www.soapscentsations.etsy.com/ I have bought wayyyy too much soap this year and especially from my buddy soap!!! She has some pretty soaps, and some funny soaps that I couldn't resist.

9. http://www.emjdesign.etsy.com/ excellent gift bags to put all this stuff in. The ribbon handles are fantastic.

10. http://www.sunbasilgarden.etsy.com/ possibly some of the prettiest color combo's. She has aneye for design and makes outstanding looking soaps.

11. http://www.trafalgarssquare.etsy.com/ I had her paint some original work for my boy's room. She has great pricing, adorable paintings and is so nice to work with. You may see some of my pocket mirrors in her shop with her designs, we did some trading.

12. http://www.thesoapbuffet.etsy.com/ bought more soap, just shoot me
13. http://www.sandyssundries.etsy.com/ bought a nice pair of fingerless gloves as a birthday present for a friend that works on the computer all day. and I really impressed her because she had always wanted a pair and never told me! I

14. http://www.sewsillydesigns.etsy.com/ had her make a 1 year old birthday shirt for a certain little boy turning 1!!!!!!! It's adorable and he will look too cute.

15. http://www.spidercamp.etsy.com/ this chick is awesome. I love her stuff. please be aware that there are swear words on her site. I had her make some custom items for my family, private joke type stuff. She made them perfect.

16. http://www.teaman.etsy.com/ What can I say, perfect tea every time. all us etsians drink it.

17. http://www.elizabear.etsy.com/ such a sweet person. I bought some stars and moon soaps for the little guy, he's a big fan of yellow stars.

18. http://www.adorkable1.etsy.com/ we traded custom items and were both so happy for our trade. She made a custom scarf for me to give to my daughter.

19. http://www.underroos.etsy.com/ Okay, so maybe you don't need anything that she makes, but damn if it is not hilarious. She is a wonderful etsian, perfect to the T, and makes such silly stuff. Please read her descriptions of her items. They are so well written and very funny.

I am not done shopping, but this is a decent start. Please take a look at these shops. I know you will find something you can't live without.
Good luck in your gift quest.
Please leave me some comments.
Thanks -Sharon

big time holiday sale!!!!

2008-11-26T19:25:00.000-05:00

gobble gobble gobble happy thanksgiving, hope you have a great day and stuff yourself to the brim. If you happen to be shopping today 11/27/08 I will throw in a free pocket mirror with every order. just have to have the sale date be 11/27/08

~~~FROM NOW, NOVEMBER 26TH THRU DECEMBER 1ST, FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $20 TO ANY DESTINATION (PAYPAL WILL BE REFUNDED)~~~

~~~ALL SINGLE POCKET MIRRORS WILL BE $3.50 EACHor 6 for $15 or 12 for $25 or 50 for $90 SALE ENDS AT MIDNIGHT E.S.T. DECEMBER 1ST ~~~

And please don't forget to make personal requests. If you see something you like and wish it came as something else, let me know!!! If you like the fabric as a pocket mirror but really need a bottle opener, I can do it!!!

Also, I need a December sale, any requests???? I haven't decided what to have for my sale.

NOVEMBER'S SPOTTEDBOX IS HERE!!!!!

2008-11-19T15:34:00.000-05:00

I participated in http://www.thespottedbox.etsy.com/ this month and I am also participating next month. (please see post about it) I received my box today!!!! So, I am going to start listing what is in my box (they all have different sets of samples) and what I think of it etc...

1. a great pair of breast pads (for nursing mothers) made of some excellent soft comfy absorbent fabric. They are from http://www.weeones.biz/ That is not all they sell. They attached a 10% off coupon. Now I need a mommy that could use these, because I have 2 pair and they are great.
2. A Christmas catnip ornament/toy for the kitty cats. This was from http://www.coloradocatniptoys.etsy.com/ I'm going to save it for Christmas and give it to the cats to fight over.
3. A nice card with envelope from http://www.1stcomeslove.net/
4. 2 sweet little ravioli felt play food. I am liking all this play food. I'll have to organize a play kitchen for my son when he gets a little older.
5. a homemade creature shaped recycled crayon from http://www.wildchildyarn.com/ It also included a a coupon for free shipping. (I love coupons)
6. a nice big glass magnet from http://www.runalicerun.etsy.com/ I also liked the packaging on this, looked very professional. and another coupon code, woohooo.
7. The cutest ear of corn felt play food from http://www.thelittlelovebug.etsy.com/ with a coupon for free shipping. This is going in my felt play food collection.
8. A red bow and a coupon code from http://www.imprettyboutique.com/ I will give this to my neighbors daughter for Christmas.
9. Some detergent from http://www.simplycleanok.com/ I'm saving all these samples of detergent for the days that I run out of detergent and need to do the laundry!!!
10. http://www.socialbutterflies.etsy.com/ sent the nicest little green and brown striped hairclip. It looks good in my hair, think I'll wear it today. And of course there are coupons too!!!
11. http://www.faceofthewave.com/ sent a sample jar of their snow angel lotion. It looks nice and creamy.
12. http://www.freewebs.com/moosemountaindesigns.com sent a thank you card and a coupon code
13. http://www.hyenacart.com/lililutu sent a cute lady bug cell phone charm. I will put this in someone's stocking at Christmas.
14. http://www.hyenacart.com/zupkozencreations sent a sample of their lavendar castile soap. This goes in my lavendar soap collection for my stepmother.
15. http://www.fishnoodles.com/ sent an iron on patch with a great Christmassy reindeer scene. I really like this fabric. Maybe I like all their fabric!!!
16. http://www.hyenacart.com/barenaked sent a sample of their miraclean for cleaning surfaces. It is an all natural product with no harsh ingredients or toxins. I think it will be good for around the birds in our house.
17. a $5 gift certificate to http://www.hyenacart.com/2by2boutique I will have to go check out their website
18. A stitch marker from http://www.memarcierenee.etsy.com/ This will go to my stepmother, my only knitter in the family.
19. www.hyenacart.com/canoecreeksoapco sent a great smelling soap sample it is their green apple and pomegranate goats milk soap. and I got it last month too, so happy about receiving it twice. Love this soap.
20. I got a wipe solution bud from http://www.lilbirdiebottoms.etsy.com/, guess I better go to the website, because I have no idea what this is. Okay, says to pour hot water over them til they dissolve and use with cloth wipes.
21. Travel size lotion from www.hyenacart.com/countrysoapsbymarlene also says to check out her deals on black Friday!
22. A bookmark from http://www.babyofmine.net/
23. a sample of mint chocolate milk bath from http://hyenacart.com/scentsorycreations
24. A very sweet little lace angel ornament from http://www.flutterbydesignsgonewild.com/
25. A very cute little christmas tree fabric covered button hairband. She even put little stars at the top. That was from http://www.butteredparsnips.etsy.com/
26. http://www.bumblebearwear.com/ sent an iron on transfer, this one has apples on it.
27. http://www.benanddutchess.etsy.com/ sent a biscotti dog treat that I almost ate myself. I'll give it to the neighbor's dog next time he's out.
28. http://www.silverhuggers.com/ sent a beaded pendant? Maybe a stitch marker or zipper pull? Could probably use as all 3.
Well, I got a ton of goodies in my box!!! and I am happy that I have lots of items to put in stockings and add to presents.
I will be busy looking at everyone's websites!!!
Of course you all are welcome to go take a peek at the sites too!

please leave your comments, I appreciate them all

11/16/08 Indie Craft Experience Holiday Shopping Spectacular Review

2008-11-16T13:10:00.000-05:00

The Indie Craft Experience Holiday Shopping Spectacular 2008 will be a day of celebrating the best handmade indie goods around.If you have any holiday shopping to do - Mark Your Calendar!Saturday, November 15, 11-6 p.m.at Ambient + Photo Studio Located at 585 Wells St. SW Unit A * Atlanta, GA 30312
Review:
CONS
The only negative, was lighting!!! I know we would have sold atleast 25% more if we had lighting. It was very dark in the center aisles. The part that irritated me about that problem was that the girls had said that there was light and that we didn't need to bring any. Because we all would have brought our lights and electrical cords, if we knew lighting was a problem.

PROS
The place was very cool!! A great big high ceilinged, hardwood floored old warehouse.
They promoted properly and so there was a ton of shoppers. All sorts of fun and interesting people came to shop. It was definitely the place to be yesterday!!!
The crafters were fabulous, interesting, fun, and creative This was not your ordinary craft festival. I was able to find exciting, fun and unique items for my children's birthdays coming up (shhh, I bought a sideshow creature from www.zomberella.com). I bought fresh made the night before, lavendar soap. I also shopped from http://www.lintyfresh.com/ This guy has very cool tshirts and he is a great sales person. He knows his product inside and out, and is incredibly helpful when it comes to fit. I bought myself a beautiful, incredibly wellmade hairband from the girl next to me, http://www.easyedges.etsy.com/ . Her prices were fantastic. Did I mention that everyone had wonderful pricing??? You could afford it all. The girl across from me was selling very funky handmade metal belt buckles that were also bottle openers, http://www.myspace.com/buncombebuckles. I bought from Wren, of http://www.loveyu.etsy.com/ some very cute squirrels that face each other so they can kiss. My kids love their kissing squirrels. Oh and there was a woman with tons of fabric. http://www.shop.someartfabric.com/main.sc I found a fabric that I desperately needed and some others that I wanted very bad!!! My partner in crime, Diane from http://www.dkdesigns.biz/ bought a purse pattern from the fabric lady.

and what did I sell???? absolutely everything. My brand new, made on Wednesday bracelets were a huge hit. I have orders coming out my ears for them. My pocket mirrors sold well and were grabbed up by a brick and mortar store for resale. I sold lots of magnets and earrings and rings and bottle openers. It was a great show. I'm glad I had sales help.
http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/

I got to meet http://www.fluffyflowers.etsy.com/ and also http://www.soshesews.etsy.com/ these are some great girls with wonderful stuff!!!

11/12/08 THESPOTTEDBOX THIS SATURDAY!!!

2008-11-11T22:05:00.000-05:00

Hey there, Just a reminder that the November Spotted Box goes on sale this Saturday November 15th at noon. You will be able to purchase it then. Please check out my earlier blog about what I received in mine last month. www.thespottedbox.etsy.com

11/10/08 TWITTER

2008-11-10T21:40:00.000-05:00

I have become a twitter junky. It is for bloggers with heavy duty A.D.D. You are only allowed 140 characters at a time. How wonderful is that for us who have no attention span for more than a sentence????? So, here I am on twitter: www.twitter.com/flirtbuttons and I totally welcome everyone to follow me on Twitter. It is very fun. For all you Etsians out there looking for views, Twitter is the place to be. If I post a listing from my site, I am guaranteed 8 or more views in less than 8 minutes, every time. It works!!! I like it a lot more than the forums on Etsy. It is faster paced and more intriguing. Go Tweet people, I'll meet you there!!!!

and don't forget to take a look at my shop. I list new items every week of my life. I have squirrels and elephants now too!!!!

11/4/08 a new update about my crackhead mirror supplier

2008-11-04T12:20:00.000-05:00

If you don't know about my crackhead mirror supplier please read my 10/13 blog. It will inform you of the insanity I have to go through as a button maker dealing with suppliers.

then I wrote on 10/14:

we left off yesterday with a box of 250 mirror parts and 500 shims. I only needed 250 shims. Why did he overnight 250 sets of mirror parts along with my shims????
I don't know, but TODAY a box came and it contained........250 shims.
Should we take bets on whether or not something will come tomorrow?
Meanwhile, can you guess what I have been making?????

today's info:

Did we ever discuss what happened to the 1000 one inch buttons that were originally shipped to me?
Well, I asked my crackhead friend what he would like me to do with them. He sent me an email with a return form for FEDEX. Which is all well and good but it's yet another thing to organize and then drop off at another location. So, I of course procrastinated. Meanwhile I got a decent size order for one inch buttons, and lo and behold I was out of them!!!! So, I emailed the guy and said that I would like to keep the 1000 one inch buttons, and could he please invoice me with Paypal. I thought this was a win win situation. He gets paid, and I don't have to find a FEDEX location. That was 2 weeks ago. I haven't heard from him, nor have I received a bill from Paypal. Can you guess what all my promos will be next month????

10/30/08 blog My Next Show

2008-10-30T21:25:00.000-04:00

Avondale Estates Autumnfest Review

2008-10-28T21:34:00.000-04:00

Hey there!!!
I am back from my weekend festival at the Avondale Estates in Georgia. It started off incredibly chilly and windy and wet! The sun managed to come out and make everything nice and festive. The food was good, excellent kids activities, music and plenty of handmade vendors.
However, We all struggled with sales. I personally felt that I should have made twice as much money. The vendors around me felt the same way. Some were struggling just to make booth fees. I blame it on the lack of advertising/marketing. If twice the amount of fair goers were there, then we all would have made twice the money. It was a difficult location to find because it was back in a neighborhood that was thick with houses and trees. You could not tell a festival was being held there, from the main street. Also parking was at a minimal. You had to park at the church and get bused in. I never saw a sign up at the church for the festival. I'm not saying they didn't have one, but I never noticed it from the street.
The good part was that I got my product out in front of the people. I had a wonderful reception. People ooohed and ahhhed over all my stuff. They bought one inch magnets, pocket mirrors, rings, bobby pins, earrings, Christmas ornaments, my new bracelets (that are not even on my site, pin back buttons, pendants and bottle openers. My bracelets seemed to appeal to women over 40. Probably because they are 8 inch bracelets, which is for a wider wrist. My pendants were bought by and for, girls age 10 to 15. All age groups bought the magnets and rings from age 5 to 65. Pocket mirrors were bought mainly as gifts for girls and women ages 13 to 45. Bottle openers were bought for men and women in the 21-55 age range. It was fantastic to see who was buying and what they were buying.
Then I got home and low and behold I had a ton of orders on Etsy! So I have been a very busy girl this week. Thanks to all my supporters!!!!
My next show is on November 15th. I will get the website and info. for you in the next week.

10/20/08 as kawaii as it gets

2008-10-20T23:44:00.000-04:00

okay, so I woke up and did all the morning routine, then I was sitting here thinking about what my next cute item should be. You know, what is cute and in style right now, as kawaii as it gets. So, I decided I need hamsters. They are very fun and all over japanese kids items. My daughter has a Gameboy game called Hamtaro. It's as silly and cute as can be. Then I got a convo on my etsy from a girl that wanted to trade for some mirrors. So I went to her 2 sites and looked around. Low and behold, what did I find???? The perfect Hamham. He's sooo cute and sits right on top of a pink cupcake! Of course it was an original painting. I thought long and hard and then got bold and asked for a trade. So, now she lets me print her hamster on my mirrors!!!!!

and she gets promos and Christmas gifts.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16428962
my latest collaborationand don't forget my mirror sale!

10/19/08 arts fair coming up 25th and 26th in Atlanta area

2008-10-19T21:36:00.000-04:00

10/19/08 where I will be this coming weekend:Historic Atlanta Neighborhood Avondale Estates Presents 2008 AutumnFestCreating a truly original flavor in the middle of historic Avondale Estates, AutumnFest attracts art lovers of all ages with a marketplace featuring over 50 artists and vendors, live music, an AutumnFest caf´, plus art and recreational activities for children.www.avondaleautumnfest.org

10/17/08 I got my SpottedBox!!!! (additional writing in red)

2008-10-17T17:05:00.000-04:00

I participated in http://www.thespottedbox.etsy.com/ this month and I am also participating next month. (please see post about it) I received my box today!!!! It went on sale Wednesday at noon and I had mine by 1:30 p.m. Friday. That is some seriously quick shipping!!!!
So, I am going to start listing what is my box (they all have different sets of samples) and what I think of it etc...
1. a great pair of breast pads (for nursing mothers) made of some excellent soft comfy absorbent fabric. They are from http://www.weeones.biz/ That is not all they sell. They attached a 10% off coupon. (CAN'T USE)
2. A sample of relaxing lavender bath salts, enough for a good one time soak. It was triple bagged so that it didn't interfere with anything else. that was from http://www.glorybeherbals.etsy.com/ (I CAN USE THIS)
3. capsule of knitters balm sample. This should be plenty for both hands after a good knitting session. That was from: http://hyenacart.com/clearhillshoney (I CAN USE THIS)
4. From Lil' Outlaws came a sample of their watermelon pail pardner. Which I assume is a watermelon smelling baking soda mixture to keep the diaper pail from stinking to high heaven. http://www.liloutlaws.net/ (CAN'T USE) Okay so maybe I can use this, I have been told to put it in the bottom of my trashcan to keep it smelling good!
5. Creative Mama Congo sent a double layer wool booster. It is meant to be used with your cloth diapers for extra absorbency. http://hyenacart.com/creativemamas It looks really well made. (CAN'T USE)
6. a homemade heart shaped crayon from http://www.sygnetcreations.etsy.com/ It also included a little scrap pad and a coupon for 20% off. (I love coupons) (I CAN USE THIS)
7. a super soft wipe/washcloth from http://www.snozzberriesndreams.com/ and a 15% off coupon. (I CAN USE THIS)
8. 1 fl oz. of european bath salts from http://www.thesweetunfolding.com/ comes in a nice little bottle with a cute label (I CAN USE THIS) There was a coupon at the bottom of the box!
9. a jack o lantern felt play food sugar cookie from http://www.thelittlelovebug.etsy.com/ with a coupon for free shipping (I CAN USE THIS)
10. A really great bib in blue and it is super soft from http://www.smallwonderswipes.com/ and a coupon for 5% off (I CAN USE THIS)
11. http://www.flutterbyedreams.etsy.com/ sent a felt heart shaped sugar cookie, could also be used as an ornament. very nice! (I CAN USE THIS)
12. 3d~deebleDdo sent an oatmeal and goatsmilk soap sample (I CAN USE THIS) need their website!
13. http://www.frostfishcovesoaps.com/ sent a sample jar of their vegan vanilla lavender supernatural lotion. It looks nice and creamy and smells good (I CAN USE THIS)
I looked at their website and they have gorgeous soaps. Plus, they have one to fight against yeast!!!! that sounds great.
14. http://www.catharticslant.etsy.com/ sent a recycled card with envelope and a tag. This will be great for the next birthday gift I have to send. (I CAN USE THIS)
15. http://www.earthbabyboutique.etsy.com/ sent some of their laundry soap. Looks like a couple of loads. You only use a tablespoon at a time. (I CAN USE THIS)
16. http://www.kardkreations.etsy.com/ sent a very pretty handmade birthday card with fancy edging and organza ribbon, it came with an envelope (I CAN USE THIS)
17. http://www.fishnoodles.com/ sent 2 iron on patches with owls. I really dig this fabric and will have to find some for my own products! (I CAN USE THIS)
18. http://www.crunchyclean.etsy.com/ sent a sample of their cherry almond scent cloth diaper detergent (I CAN USE THIS) I will probably just throw this in with the whites since I don't do cloth diapers.
19. a $5 gift certificate to http://www.thebasicbaby.com/ I will have to go check out their website
20. very cute ducks and rain drops bath confetti from www.sassyscrubsandsuch.etsy.com, I don't see a website, hmmmmm something I will have to look up with my yahoo group. (I CAN USE THIS) as you can see I looked up the website and they had a ton of great stuff! I like the stars and moon bath confetti for my son. I have been collecting stars and moon items for his bath time. They also had princess crown bath fizzies that looked fun!
21. www.hyenacart.com/canoecreeksoapco sent a great smelling soap sample it is their green apple and pomegranate goats milk soap. (I CAN USE THIS) I'm not the only one loving on this scent!
22. a very pretty flower photo from http://www.smallmoments.etsy.com/ (I CAN USE THIS)
23. A bookmark from www.markmywords.etsy.com (I CAN USE THIS)
24. a cute print from http://www.joannagoldman.com/ and a coupon for free shipping (I CAN USE THIS) she is also on etsy and has a blog
25. a breast pad with pretty fabric from www.hyenacart.com/ellagene (CAN"T USE)
some one said maybe it is a face cloth, for removing makeup??? not sure. If anyone knows, please tell.

there were a few other coupons at the bottom of the box and I just put everything back in so I will have to dig them out again later!!!!

okay, not bad! Out of 25 samples I can use 20 of them and 1 of them is a gift certificate, so I will have to go check the store out. and just because I can't use something doesn't mean it isn't great. If you want to trade me feel free to comment or convo on my website.

I will be continuing this blog post next time. when I have enough time to try stuff and to look at websites. Of course you all are welcome to go take a peek at the sites!!!!

10/16/08 Gearing Up for Christmas

2008-10-16T22:51:00.000-04:00

Well, I did it! I finally made and then photographed and listed my first Christmas ornament.

If you have been following my blog you will know that my pocket mirror parts supplier is a crackhead and therefore has shipped me an abundance of mirror parts for no reason. Sooo, I had to get crackin' at hustling them out my door. I put them all on a super sale and now I have created a new product with them. I have added an organza ribbon loop to hang the pocket mirror with. TAH-DAH an ornament!!!! It has wonderful light reflection on one side (the mirror) and a nice Christmas or winter themed picture on the other side. And of course you can still just use it as a mirror!

If you see anything in my shop that you would like made into an ornament please let me know. I will gladly make it for you!

10/14/08 my crackhead supplier continued

2008-10-14T19:46:00.000-04:00

we left off yesterday with a box of 250 mirror parts and 500 shims. I only needed 250 shims. Why did he overnight 250 sets of mirror parts along with my shims????

I don't know, but TODAY a box came and it contained........250 shims.

Should we take bets on whether or not something will come tomorrow?

Meanwhile, can you guess what I have been making?????

10/14/08 pocket mirror sale

2008-10-14T15:09:00.000-04:00

so here is my recent sale:
all pocket mirrors are $3.50 each, 6 for $15 or 12 for $25. Convo me if you need something custom or have questions.
www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com
flirtemail@yahoo.com

thanks for reading about my crackhead supplier!!!!

10/13/08 My supplier is on crack! or, why I am having a pocket mirror sale

2008-10-13T15:47:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago I ran out of mirror parts because I had a few big orders. So, I decided to order from vendor #2 because they ship faster than vendor #1. So I waited all week with orders for mirrors piling up, and finally on Friday the box arrived!
I took it to my office to start making mirrors. When I opened the box it wasn't what I ordered. They sent 1000 one inch button parts instead of 250 2.25 inch mirror parts. I was livid! I got on the phone and called and called and left messages. I emailed them too. I never got a response. So, Sunday night I ordered 100 mirror parts from vendor #1 and paid for fast shipping.

Monday morning rolls around and UPS drops off my 250 mirror parts that were overnighted by vendor #2. It would have been nice of them to tell me they were overnighting the shipment! So, when I opened the box to make mirrors, I find out the shims are missing. What a nightmare! Luckily my other mirror parts from vendor #1 had arrived and I could use those shims.
I email vendor #2 and tell him that the shims are missing and to please send them, but no rush. He emails back and tells me to look again because the guy that packed the box says he put them in there!! (probably the same guy that shipped 1000 button parts instead of 250 mirror parts) I tell him that they are not in there, that I don't mean to be a pain in the ass, but please send the shims.
That was Friday. This morning, Monday, UPS delivers an overnighted box of 250 mirror parts and 500 shims.
I may just go insane

10/09/08 update

2008-10-09T21:17:00.000-04:00

Come visit all my stuff at my shop:
www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com

10/9/08 Gifts for Men

2008-10-09T19:42:00.000-04:00

Today is my Mom's Birthday and I better remember to call her later!

But on with my blog.

I am trying to make sure that I have gender neutral items in my shop. My shop is very girly but that does not mean that these girls do not have men in their lives!!!! So, I have started to list more bottle openers that could be for anyone. I am going to put up some pics of gender neutral bottle openers and bottle openers that women have bought for men, and that men have bought for themselves. So, if you think it may be a little girly, don't look at me, I didn't make them buy it!!!!

I hope that you all take a look at your shops, if you have one, and make sure that you have some gender neutral or masculine items in your shop. Even if it's just a small separate section for women to buy for their man.

here's some of my bottle openers that I promised you!

10/6/08 the spotted box

2008-10-06T18:18:00.000-04:00

Hey there,
I will be participating in The Spotted Box in October and November. Here is a very nice press release that was written about it.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE SPOTTED BOX CELEBRATES ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
(October 1, 2008) The Spotted Box (http://www.thespottedbox.com/) celebrated its one-year anniversary
in September with its largest box ever. Featuring over 80 independent artisans, the September Spotted
Box also included many large items in random boxes as well as giveaways and special samples.
ABOUT THE SPOTTED BOX
The Spotted Box is a box of family-oriented, eco-friendly samples from independent crafters, packaged
together and sent directly to buyers. Designed with the young family in mind, these fun handmade
samples are focused on children and their mothers. The Boxes are sold on the 15th of each month on Etsy
http://www.TheSpottedBox.etsy.com/ and Hyena Cart http://www.hyenacart.com/TheSpottedBoxfor $22
including shipping. Between 80 and 150 boxes are currently available each month.
Each Spotted Box includes 25-30 handmade natural-parenting samples from our favorite artisans. The
handmade samples can include toys, stationary items, tarts, crocheted, knit and wool goods, candy and
food, diapering accessories, bath and beauty items, clothing, bags, personal accessories and jewelry, art,
personal care items, crayons, patterns, natural cleaners and detergents, pet items, gift certificates, home
school curriculum and more.
HISTORY
In 2007, Tory, an artisan soapmaker and mother of three young children, created the Spotted Box in an
effort to bring more recognition to the eco-friendly artisan products she and other work-at-home
businesses were creating. Tory knew that if consumers could only see these products, they would fall in
love! The Spotted Box debuted on Hyena Cart in September 2007 then expanded to Etsy in July 2008. It
is a high-demand item that sells out in minutes on both e-commerce sites. The businesses providing
samples for the Spotted Box are independent artisans most of whom are mothers themselves. It was
created as a marketing tool for small crafting businesses and continues to support companies creating
handmade items for the young family. The Spotted Box provides unique advertising and builds a
community of artisans who discuss and vote on the Box’s guidelines and future direction.
###
CONTACT
Tory Wright
tory@thespottedbox.com

10/5/08

2008-10-05T22:57:00.000-04:00

10/05/08 Join my mailing list for specials, coupons etc... Just convo me on etsy and ask to be on my mailing list. You can have messages sent to your email or convo'd to you, let me know what you would like! orrrrrr leave me a message here as to how you would like me to contact you with sales, news etc.... and always coupons!!!!

here is a coupon code:

08blogfreeship

free shipping good for the rest of 2008 for all USA, Canada and UK shipments

just put the code in your message to seller or convo me.

http://www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com/

have you seen my new rings?????????

9/27/08

2008-09-27T11:31:00.000-04:00

I am spoiled rotten!!!! Here is another blog!!!!!!!! Thank you. -Sharon

Really love your cute shop! I'll bookmark for christmas goodies! View your spotlight here:http://www.beesarefun.blogspot.com

9/26/08 yeahhhhh another blog!

2008-09-26T23:50:00.000-04:00

check it out, a very nice blog about my shop!

http://bonghinatura.blogspot.com/

make sure you check out her store too!!!

9/23/08 yet another day that I do not have to blog!!

2008-09-23T13:45:00.000-04:00

Hi Sharon,I just posted a blog post about you: http://scribblenation.typepad.com/Thanks for the shipping refund. Love your shop!

9/21 a goody bag winner!!!

2008-09-21T23:23:00.000-04:00

I don't even have to blog today. Someone else did it for me!!!!!

9/16/08 free gift for bloggers

2008-09-16T12:46:00.000-04:00

9/16/08 free gift for anyone that blogs (in a positive manner) about my product and uses a picture and link to my shop! Just convo me the link to your blog and your home address, I will read it and then send you something in the snail mail to say thank you!!! Maybe you already purchased something from me and you have a great story to tell about it. Maybe you just need a good excuse to write on your blog today!

9/13 shopping spree!!!!

2008-09-14T09:32:00.000-04:00

Well, I got a few hours off from my kids yesterday and went shopping with my friend Diane. She has www.gottags.etsy.com and some other shops. She had found a wonderful scrapbooking shop over by the Town Center Mall in Marietta, Georgia or maybe they consider that Kennesaw, I don't know. Anyway, the store has great prices and then take 50% off of that!!!! Soooo, I bought some absolutely fabulous papers. You will be overwhelmed by all the new products I will have over the next couple of weeks. After shopping til we dropped in the scrapbooking store, we headed to Joanne's. I bought a little bit of fabric and then some wonderful scrapbook papers, And a rubber stamp of the eiffel tower. Ohhh and the all powerful circle cutter. I needed a circle cutter to cut my 1 inch button papers. I have done it by hand so far, aarrggghhhhh. I don't mind cutting the fabric by hand, but the paper makes me crazy. And did I mention the all powerful giant Hello Kitty sticker book? I will be the queen of Hello Kitty soon.

google and $250 extra a week

2008-09-12T10:57:00.000-04:00

Okay folks I'm working it!!! I will not be teaching online next quarter and therefore need to come up with $250 more a week from my Etsy shop. www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com
sooooo, I got chummy with Google last night. They may be putting ads on my blog. If you don't like it, just ignore them. Otherwise be click happy so I can make some money. Also, I bought some adwords. I will update you all as to how that works out.

my etsy shop

2008-09-11T22:26:00.000-04:00

www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com

be there or be square. how's that for maturity?

9/11/08 and not even going to mention new york

2008-09-11T19:25:00.001-04:00

Nope, you can't make me talk about it.
But here is a positive thing:
9/10/08 Well I got my 200th heart. The lucky hearter will receive a goody bag in the mail!!!Next goody bag winner will be my 250th heart and my 100th sale!!!
how fun is that!

pandamonium on Etsy

2008-09-06T23:18:00.000-04:00

9/6/08 Mei Lan the panda's 2nd birthday and I made it into a treasury!!!! http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=6085

Trading

2008-09-06T10:08:00.000-04:00

Trading has been fun for me. I like to look at someone's shop knowing that I could have anything I wanted, for a trade of items I make. It's like having a gift card. Looove it!!!!
My latest trade was with www.relishdress.com she convo'd me because she wanted to trade for something of mine to give to a friend. She had seen my name on a list for Christmas trading. Soooo I looked around her shop and she has some very nice handmade jewelry. I opted for one of the following:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14954638
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_3&listing_id=14849259
or
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_10&listing_id=14188938

I told her to surprise me!!!!

Spotlight on Starlitnest my favorite fabric shop on Etsy

2008-09-04T11:43:00.000-04:00

Hi there,

Thought I would spotlight a fellow Etsian. I just love the customer service that I have received from Alison at www.Starlitnest.etsy.com. We always convo back and forth and she is very friendly and quick with her responses. I almost always have custom orders that she puts together for me. Some how I am unable to just pick something she has already spent the time to put together. I'm just a pain in the neck that way!!!! If I have any questions or need an extra scrap of something she always sends it in my order. Speaking of orders, they come pressed and neat and wrapped in ribbon like a gift. She must be a true fabric lover because her packages are treated with such care.

I went crazy on one inch buttons

2008-09-03T21:41:00.000-04:00

New Promo for September, 12 (one dozen) custom one inch buttons for 5 bucks.

Okay so I went a little crazy and ordered wayyyyy too many one inch buttons. But dang it are they cute! I will be listing fabric covered and designer paper covered buttons etc...but back to this listing.You will get 12 one inch buttons and pay $5 plus $2 for shipping in the USA.You can send me artwork or photos or ask for words of your choice.Just remember these are only an inch. Don't go getting crazy on me!Need more than 12? convo me or look for my larger listings

Goody Bags on sale now

2008-08-31T11:05:00.000-04:00

Goody Bag Special on 2.25 inch products!!!! surprises are fun!My Goody Bags to friends, family, large order customers and winners of my contests, have been such a hit that I decided to offer them to everyone!This goody bag will contain 2.25 inch products with a total retail value of over $15. Now you cannot choose what goes in it, that will be based on my stock at the time of purchase. There could be pocket mirrors, bottle openers, magnets, buttons etc... You just never know what you will find! I enjoy putting these together and I know you will enjoy receiving them.This is an excellent way to get some of my goodies when you don't really know what to choose. Maybe you like everything!!!and don't forget the shipping is free in the U.S.A.!!!!!!

Not to mention, everything comes in a gift bag so you are all ready to give it as a gift. Maybe you keep some of it and give away the rest!!!!

8/18/08

2008-08-18T13:55:00.000-04:00

I'm having a sale!!! Buy 2 pocket mirrors or bottle openers and get 1 free. How handy!! Perfect start to the holiday shopping, or if you just need something for you!!!!

I have been so busy this week making new products out of all my new fabrics. You will love them.

2008-08-08T13:46:00.000-04:00

Hi there. I am back from vacation!!!!I now have lots of baby shower fabric and dare I say it, Christmas fabric!!!! Plus some great summer stuff for all those people that live in the moment. I will be listing new items by midweek. if you need anything sooner, let me know.

and I bought some rubber stamps. I'm out of control!!!!1

7/17 THURSDAY

2008-07-17T16:43:00.001-04:00

******GREAT NEWS 7/17 I JUST REDUCED MY SHIPPING COST TO THE U.K. SO ALL YOU GUYS AND GIRLS ACROSS THE POND, PLEASE COME SHOP WITH ME******

*****SUPER NEWS, my 1 inch buttonmaker has arrived and I will be putting new product online mid August.*****

I will be at Atlantic Station Market Friday 7/18 from 5pm til 10pm all you people in Atlanta need to come visit!!!!! My tent will be Bad Girlz Beads

7/17 THURSDAY

2008-07-17T16:43:00.000-04:00

Tuesdat already 7/15

2008-07-15T22:21:00.000-04:00

Hey there,
I have been a busy little button maker. I got a big order on Monday for 4 dozen bottle openers and 3 dozen pocket mirrors, ohhhh and she needed them overnighted!!!!! I am not complaining. It was a great order and I worked my buns off. I also started teaching my online class Monday night. So I have been swamped this week.

More Saturday

2008-07-12T21:19:00.000-04:00

*****SUPER NEWS, I ORDERED A 1 INCH BUTTON MAKER*****IT SHOULD BE HERE NEXT WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!! LET THE FUN BEGIN

Saturday morning

2008-07-12T10:25:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone!!!

I just listed a reserve listing of my PinUp girl pocket mirrors. Thought I would post them here for all to see.

7/10 waiting for my supplies

2008-07-10T13:59:00.000-04:00

I am just sitting here waiting for my supplies to come. I can't stand waiting. I have 2 orders I need to fill, dang it. I got a custom order for 35 mirrors for a baby shower. I attached the picture so you can see the fabric I'm using for it.

2008-07-08T10:48:00.000-04:00

Okay well I wish I could go back to Sunday. This week is not working out quite yet. It started with a waterfall from my upstairs bathroom into my family room!!!! I woke up to it at 2:30 a.m. Monday morning. Then Monday evening we had a bad storm and the power went out for more than 5 hours. My neighbors tree split in half in her front yard. Oh joy. Now I'm waiting to see what today brings.
Meanwhile I am working hard on lots of new products!!!! please take a look at my site:
www.flirtbuttons.etsy.com