So, now that I've figured out how to take screen pictures of the treasuries I'm in, I will start posting them.


Here are a couple my things are in right now!


A New Year Baby!

lower left corner



A Dark Greenish Blue!

one up from the lower left corner...

Yeah! I managed to get two treasury west's today! I anxiously awaited next to my regular computer and my laptop in order to do it but I did! Be sure to check them both out and click and comment!

TEAM LOVIN
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=37945

AND

G R E E N V I O U S
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=37901

Enjoy!

Well, I am happy to let everyone know that my family is on the road to recovery. Cedi's taking a little longer than the rest of us but I'm sure she'll be there all of a sudden. I'm still trying to gain some energy back, but I'm sure I just need to feel a bit more motivated and that will come too.

We had my husband's family over (about 20 people) yesterday for Christmas and I think it was quite successful. Luckily, months ago, I had decided that I was going to serve chili for dinner. Considering the preceding week, it was the best decision EVER! The chili was super easy to make, serve and clean up. It sounded like everyone enjoyed it. Our gift exchange went really well and the kids all had a good time.

I have some fun blogs coming your way. One to talk about the hat exchange in my dad's family and the ornament exchange my mom's family has.

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday!

Well, it's bound to happen sometimes. Cedi and I are still sick (ucky stomach-flue sick). Cedi was feeling so much in the non-holiday spirit that she had Mommy open her presents from Santa...a mom hates to see that. We are also unable to attend the 'Van Grunsven' Christmas which means we're missing the hat exchange. We were all given a name of a family member and we had to make a hat for that member. I've been promised that I will be getting the pictures of the hats emailed to me. Luckily, my cousin, Amie, stopped by our house on her way to DePere yesterday and picked up our hats for the party. So, even if we're not there, our hats are.

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!

If you ever find yourself in the quaint little town of Poynette and are looking for a cozy little shop to sip on coffee as you browse through fun goodies, you definitely need to stop by Little Blessings, Coffee and Gift Shop.





Here's what their flyer says:



Little Blessings offers many different gifts and fresh ground assorted coffee, Latte, Espresso, Assorted Cappuccino, Assorted Ice Coffee's, Vanilla and Mocha Java and Fruit Smoothie's, fresh baked muffins, assorted flavors of Biscotti and the best candy made directly from the Amish.



We offer gift baskets per order, children's toy's, books, steamed trains, antique and collectible item's as well as many gift idea's. Bath and body products, perfumes, including Emu oils, soaps, shampoo and conditioner. A variety of environmentally safe candles that can only be purchased at our store as well as hand painted to your order and design of family trees or what you would like on glass of over 100 years of age. This glass reflects the light in a rainbow of colors.



Antiques, Packer memorabilia, county gifts, folk art, hand made quilts, hand made chest and wood work which can be made to special order as well as many of our products in the store that are crafted by local artists. We also offer a larger variety of towel's, hand loomed rugs, jewelry and much more."



A mini-thrift shop can also be found in the back of the store. I always enjoy looking for a 'treasure'. The other day I found a super cute hat! I've had a problem with hats recently (my problem being, I can't stop myself from buying them)...oops!



Part of the charm of this little shop is talking with the owner, Laura Walters. She has a wonderful personality and is always so friendly when I stop by. I now even have my own drink...Chocolate Covered Cherry Cappuccino, a.k.a. Kim Special.



Just recently Laura asked to carry some of my hand-dyed onesies in her shop. Of course, I was thrilled. You can see examples of these by looking at my etsy shop (go to the children's clothing section), http://www.kimscraftyapple.etsy.com/. She is also carrying some of the adorable ribbon bracelets that I have made this past year.



I hope you decide to make a stop one day and enjoy this little store as much as I do.



For more information give Laura a call at (608) 635-7774 or just stop by her store at 124 North main Street, Poynette, WI 53955

It is only fitting since I own/operate an apple orchard!

Here are my featured artists/crafters:

Jenniferladd's Apple trees clasp clutch purse from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5397355

Pammydawn's An Apple A Day SET of 2 - M2M Alexander Henry Apples and Pears Fabric - Wool Felt Snap Clips or Pins from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5707054

Leatherprince's Green Apple Leather Keychain from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5774521

ThreeWheelsDesign's Printable stationery... A is for Apple from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5153451

KateEmersonDesign's NEW COLLECTION Kait Emerson Knot Apron Dress- APPLES 6m thru 6Y from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5175006

DoriDoo's Adam's Temptation from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5543131

NeedleLove2's Pieced Patchwork Red Apple Table Topper from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6346270

FunkyShape's BEAUTIFUL AND UNIQUE RED AND LIME BABY BOOTIES WITH WONDERFUL APPLIQUE OF CUTE WORMS MUNCHING A YUMMY APPLE-HAND STITCHED from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5152803

ddb7's Unique Apple,Fruit Bird Feeder.Duratemp exterior wood,water for the Winter from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6364406

Balasadesign's Boutique Apples and Pears on Spa Blue Zippered Pouch from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=61883

ryanstudio's Apple No. 7 from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5317502

and ThreadedExpression's Fruit Ladies Potholder - Set of 2 from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6247542

I hope you enjoy this latest treasury and feel free to let me know what you think!

Interview with whichgoose from http://www.whichgoose.etsy.com/
(one of my favorite shops on etsy!)

Tell me a little bit about your background in arts and crafts.

I have no formal training, but I guess I've always been the type of person who liked making stuff. I also paint sometimes, but not well, and it usually frustrates me. I'm definitely more of a 3-dimensional crafter :)

When did you first start creating things?
I guess when I was kid. I was into Play-dough, and always played dress-up. I guess having an active imagination is a big part of being able to create. You have to visualize the possibilities first, then put the thought into action.

Have you always made the items you have currently listed on your etsy stoer or did you start out making other things? If so, what items and why did you stop making them?

I started off doing mainly vintage stuff from thrift stores. I also used to make bracelets out of newspaper beads. Those were hot sellers, but way too much of a mess to make. I think the crowns are prettier, anyway :) Me too, although I haven't seen the bracelets!

Is this your only business or do you do other things as well?

I have a full-time job at a newspaper--I'm a graphic designer--so I design and layout the pages. Also do some copy editing (though you wouldn't know it by the amount of typos I've probably made in this interview!)

Do you still dream about making other things? If so, what?

I would LOVE love love to learn how to make clothes..and well. I also see a vintage shirt or something that I wish I could cut up and make into something new and trendy.

How did you hear about Etsy?

My good friend, Lauren, wrote me an e-mail and said "Have you seen this? This would be perfect for you." The next day, I opened a shop!

Any words of advice to others?

In order to succeed on Etsy, you've got to think of it as a business. I like to think of myself being two different people (in a non-multiple personality type of way). Like, you create your art with one person, then the other one lists the items and mails them out in a timely fashion. I've got to separate them--or else I start getting all "artsy" and flighty with the sales. haha :) It's all about balance, I suppose.

Thank you to WhichGoose for answering all my questions. I hope everyone takes some time to go and check out her amazing crowns!

Here's a pic mineFULL took of me selling my things at the 2nd Annual etsy streetTeam Wist Craft Sale at Lazy Jane's Cafe in Madison, WI.

MineFULL - Mindfully made handcrafted items
http://www.minefull.etsy.com/

Tell me a little bit about your background in arts and crafts:

Like most artists and crafters I can't remember a time when I wasn't making something. My Mom is a great sewer and would sew me clothes (I liked having things that were different than everyone else!). When I was a little kid I had a sewing machine that sewed with glue. I would make stuff for my dolls with it. Then, when I was a teenager I started sewing some of my own clothes as well as some things for friends too. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts. My emphasis in college was fiber arts. My fifteen minutes of fiber art fame: When I was in college I submitted a piece I did to the "Fiberarts Design Book 5" and my piece was printed in the book, which to me was huge because in college I would pour over and drool at the previous "Fiberarts Design Books".

When did you first start creating things?:

Hmmm, all my life I guess. But as far as selling the things I make that would be about 2 years ago.

Have you always made bags and hats or did you start out making other things?:

When I first started selling my creations I was primarily making bags, wristlets and purses, although I get bored making the same things over and over so I started making glass marble magnets and pendants as well. Through the magic of the internet I met a woman in Australia, Sue McArthur of http://mchats.etsy.com/ . Sue studied millinery and writes her own hat patterns. Sue graciously shared some of her hat patterns with me and we developed a business to business relationship. Sue sells patterns in her shop and I sell hats made from her patterns, and we refer people to each others shops. So now I've added hats to my shop as well.

Is this your only business or do you do other things as well?:

Other than running MineFull I also help my Step-Dad, Ken, run his etsy shop (which features hand turned wood pieces): http://urbanturn.etsy.com/ . I'm a work-at-home Mom and have two daughter's; Serene, age 7 and Esme, age 4.

Do you still dream about making other things? If so what?:

Where to begin? I'm always coming across something that inspires me. In the last couple of years I've taught myself to knit and crochet. I'm working on honing those skills, but for now I just make things for my kids, family and friends. When I was in college I had a couple of pottery classes that I loved. Someday it would be fun to get back into a pottery studio. I do upholstery as well, someday I would like to design and possibly weave my own upholstery fabric and upholster furniture pieces that my husband makes.

How did you hear about Etsy?:

I found it by accident! I was selling purses I made on ebay and to friends and acquaintances, there was a particular fabric that was popular and I was doing an online search on that fabric to buy some more. An etsy seller had that fabric name in a title for one of her listings and it came up in a google search. I remember opening up that page and thinking "Wow, what is this?". I was hooked! At first I opened an account and just bought a few things, then I opened MineFull and started selling.

Any words of advice to others?:

I always tell new sellers to spread out their listings. Bunching up all your listings at one time just gets all those listings buried together. But if you list randomly throughout the day or week you'll be able to touch more viewers. Try your best to take great pictures. And of course, treat buyers how you like to be treated when you're buying. I try to be as friendly and quick to respond as I can.

At the recent etsy streetTeam Wist craft sale, I got one of mineFULL's hat. I wore to a party this past Monday and recieved many, many compliments. MineFULL uses great craftsmenship with her work and you are sure to love whatever you get from her. I hope you check out her shop!

Very soon I will start writing up interviews that I have sent out to various artists' that I admire (hopefully today). It is a scary world out there for everyone right now and I plan on doing my best to help get other peoples names out there. It has also been interesting for me to hear others' stories as to how they became the artists/crafter they are today and I hope that rings true for you as well.

Here are the artists that I have featured in my latest treasury!

Structural Pink Sapphire Ring - sophisticated, modern, hand forged sterling silver with faceted gemstones from Crowsnestmountain's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6507682

PETALS FREE SHIPPING - Bobbypin set of 2 in Sunset - bobby pins from MGMart's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6059271

The Gothic Collection-Rose Garden Earrings from Staroftheeast's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5203404

Art Quilt Autumn Flurries from artmixer's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5307512

red gold lattice bracelet from tinctory's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5176973

Pink Disco Ball Ring from beadedbaublejewelry's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6114737

Ginger Blossom - Set of Three Soft Jingle Bell Balls from AppleBlossomBaby's Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5238808

Very small copper wire baskets -- tea light candle holders, custom order from
Xanadu2You's Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5334660

Lavender and Purple Wrist Warmers from KitMit's Shop: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17981103

Felt Flower Brooch - 160 - Berry Cinnamon Curry and Pink from OfftheHookHat's Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5282357

Reversible Raspberry - reversible from retrofied's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5279767

Apple Jacket - Hand Knit Mix from jacquelineknits's shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5057379

I hope you enjoy my latest treasury! Feel free to leave a comment on my blog on your opinions!

Fantastic Resources
-The Handmade Toy Alliance (check out their proposed changes, a lot of which make a whole lot of sense
-CPSIA Facebook Group
-CPSIA information group on ning
-Z Recommends: Five steps you can take to save natural toys (excellent reading)
-Fashion Incubator
-The Smart Mama
-Etsy business forums (including this specific thread on local media coverage)
-Twitter: Search using the #CPSIA hashtag
-Endangered Whimsy - a blog gallery of handmade products endangered by the CPSIA. Feel free to submit yours.

PLEASE take a few minutes to look through this and tell your family and friends about it! This new law is ridiculous and is going to hurt a lot of very talented people!

Tagging Game

Here's the "official" rules:

(1) Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.

(2) Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog; some random, some weird.

(3) Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as their links to their blogs.

(4) Let them know they have been "tagged" by leaving a comment on their blog.

My 7 Facts

I own and operate an apple orchard but can’t grow anything (good thing we have to sell the apple too J)

I retired from my job as an engineer at the age of 25.

I have two daughters named Mercedi and Capri and NO I did not name them after cars. I named one after I saw a model on the Tyra Show with the name Mercedes and I named Capri after a Colbi Calliat song, “Capri”.

I’m going through an obsessive phase with buying hats…I bought four new hats in the last month. I love to buy them but rarely have the patience to wear them for any period of time.

My dream is to someday have my own pottery wheel and kiln.

I hate driving.

I can read books for hours and hours and not be disturbed or bored…as long as they are fiction.

People I have tagged:

Simply Raevyn

Pfeiffer Photos

Nicole Tattersall

Scotty Says

it's all happening!

It's a Boy

3D Models - by Max Attivo

I pulled this article from the Black Box Reviews blog (http://blackboxreviews.blogspot.com/2008/12/we-need-your-help-to-save-handmade-toys.html)

We need your help to save handmade toys in the US, Europe and Canada from the CPSIA
Just pulled this article from Cool Mom Picks. I'm sad!
We interrupt the tidings of comfort and joy to bring you some heartbreaking news.
Of course we're all for strengthening the safety standards of mass-produced toys made in China, and banning toxins like phthalates and lead. But this year, the CPSC passed the ill-conceived Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act which goes into effect in two months and will absolutely decimate the small toy manufacturers, independent artisans, and crafters who have already earned the public trust. The very same ones that we often feature here and in our Safer Toy Guide.
They will all go out of business. Period.
Moms who sew beautiful handmade waldorf dolls out of home, artists who have spent decades hand-carving trucks and cars out of natural woods, that guy at the craft show who sold you the cute handmade puzzle--even larger US companies who employ local workers and have not once had any sort of safety issue will no longer be able to sell their toys. Not without investing tens of thousands of dollars into third-party testing and labeling, just to prove that toys that never had a single chemical in them still don't have a single chemical in them.
In other words, handmade toys will now be illegal.
So many of our past reviewees are pleading for your help. Here's what you can do:
-Find your congress person and senators and write a letter like the sample here, particularly if they serve on the consumer protection subcommittee.
-Send a letter directly to the CPSC.
-Join the Handmade Toy Alliance and check out their proposed changes to the act which make a whole lot of sense.
-Spread the word to everyone you know who cares about helping the little guy, particular in today's economy.
Thanks mamas. We know we can help make a difference and preserve this important cottage industry, keep good honest people in business, and protect the playthings we all love best of all.
Edited to add: It would seem this act impacts not just toys, but all children's products (thanks, Diana) including clothing, hair accessories, shoes - pretty much everything we feature here. Please please, if you do one thing today, shoot off an email or two, will you?

Well, the etsy streetTeam Wist craft sale at Lazy Jane's Cafe on Willy Street in Madison, WI, was a big success last night! It was super fun too! I was able to meet a lot of the talented artists from Wisconsin and see there things in person instead of just over the internet...people really come up with some amazing things!

I was also amazed at the number of people that came to check out the sale! There was a line outside waiting before we opened to the public and it was rainy! I think champagne and apple cider (freshly pressed the night before by yours truly, of course) helped get them there but I'm sure they weren't disappointed with the craft selection they saw.

One sale that I am most proud of is when one lady was looking at the chunky bracelets that I make but she didn't want to try them on. I showed her the one I was wearing so she could see how they can shape to each individual's wrists...she said, "oooh, do have one for sale in those colors." I didn't, so I responded, "No, but this one is for sale." And what to you know, I made a sale. This is the second time this season that I was able to sell something that I was wearing!

When nine o'clock rolled around and it was clean up time, one of the other crafter's husbands' told me it was going to take me at least an hour to clean up my stuff. You have to realize that I have had farmer's markets and craft sales all summer and fall so I've pretty much perfected my system. I was able to load eleven apple crates, one box and my table in my van from the second floor of Lazy Janes in, what? That's right, 24 minutes! Ironically, the man and his wife were still picking up there things when I said my good-byes. It was nice though, his "bet" made me work even faster than I probably would have and I was home by 10.

Well, keep you eye on my site the next few days. I will be listing a bunch of new things!

Wow! My jungle treasury is doing very well...FOUR items have sold already!

I've added a new item too from:

mimowha: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5270979

Check it out and see if there's anything you want to buy!
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=35382

Here's a summary of a game I played in a thread:

KimsCraftyApple: Lets play the alphabet game to promote our goods! I'll start by listing an item that starts with the letter A...the next person does B, let C, etc. If we make it all the way through...start over again!
HAVE FUN!

A

A is for:
Autumn Branch Wristlet
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18342581

B

klosti says:
B is for blue:
Blue floral baby booties:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15771680

C

samsshop says:
C is for Clutch:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18346287

D

italianpostcards says:
D is for vintage Dooney and Bourke:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16921601

E

lessthanthreee says:
e is for emerald green
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17176314

ZhenneWoodArtThings says:
E is for elephants:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5973262

TheFunkyMermaid says:
E is for earrings:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6408458

jemimalumley says:
E is for earrings!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17285307

F

bellybaloo says:
F is for Friend Frame
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13760055

lessthanthreee says:
f is for fungi
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17174521

ZhenneWoodArtThings says:
F is for Fabric Turtle Doll:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13599064

G

KimsCraftyApple says:
G is for Green apple Onesie!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18207139

H

jemimalumley says:
H is for swans and HEARTS cuff (sorry!)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15618499

bellybaloo says:
H is for handbag
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17327197

I

heartsabustin says:
"I" candy!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18335268

J

FloradoraInc says:
J for Java
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8022493

K

lessthanthreee says:
k is for kimscraftyapple =
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5665286

L

jemimalumley says:
L is for lovebirds....aw....
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12778731

KimsCraftyApple says:
L is for:Lime Green Hand-Dyed Hoodie - (XL)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17994916

lessthanthreee says:
l is for lessthanthreeeee!!! haha
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5539083

M

KimsCraftyApple says:
M is for: Muted Rainbow Hand Dyed Fabric - One Yard
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18292211

fifthquadrant says:
M is for musical metal
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16350509
fun thread!

N

N is for Natural Flecked Beret/Tam
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17862117

O

mydeepbluec says:
O is for OZ !Hand Embellished Wizard Of Oz Girls Jeans :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16261183

P

MontanaHatter says:
P is for Preemie baby hats
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15896916

Q

Yummilicious says:
Q is for Quiet snowfall
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9788401

R

TheFunkyMermaid says:
R is for Rachel:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17413391

S

Yummilicious says:
S is for Skinny Scarf
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9745439

T

MontanaHatter says:
T is for TAM
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16565360

U

elegancebymode says:
U is for unique gifts...I have plenty of them. Including this Versatile necklace.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14945989

TheFunkyMermaid says:
U is for Under
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17252519

V

fifthquadrant says:
V is for vintage velourhttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17319144

dylanS says:
V is for vinyl!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16599936

W

TheFunkyMermaid says:
W is for wish:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18048153

X

MontanaHatter says:
X-tra soft Ratsa Tam
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15896713

Y

elegancebymode says:
YOUR TIME
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18337281

Z

fifthquadrant says:
how about zipper closure leather keyholder
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16095014

KimsCraftyApple says:
OOOH! I got it!
Z is for zebra!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18061975

I had a lot of fun with this thread! I hope you enjoy looking through all the fun and unique items!

Okay, I am officially addicted to making treasuries now...and it's been one day. Luckily the girls were at the sitters so I had time to do this, we'll see what happens during the week.

So, my second treasury took a completely different turn than my first. This one is titled:

It's A J U N G L E out there!
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=35382

and here are the artists' that I have featured:

usnavyretiredvet: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5091554
circularaccessories: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=68044
HoneyBops: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5674258
MimisCrafts: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6151368
AppleBlossomBaby: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5238808
berkleyillustration: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5404421
marymarsh: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5082654
ThreadedExpressions: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6247542
ellabellamay: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6249087
AlexiaJean: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5661017
weBeWhimsical: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6405364

AND

thepatacakebaby: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5576155

Congrats to the sellers and happy sales!

I hope everyone enjoys this treasury!

So I actually got my first treasury today! I just randomly looked at it and all of a sudden it opened up and POOF! I hope you enjoy it:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=25610

Here are the artists' I've included:

modernbird: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5362250
1ofmykind: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5003513
whichgoose: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5649119
inafrenzy: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5862539
kittygrrlz: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=8859
VickiDianeDesigns: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=85923
ThreeFiveEightyFive: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=42194
jennyblasenpottery: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5501375
uniquelynancy: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5248112
ticklebean: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=38222
TimothyAdamDesigns: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5074716

AND

lapomme: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=103295

I hope everyone enjoys it!

The following story is something that actually happened to me this past October in my apple store...enjoy!

I always jokingly brag that I am the best salesperson in the family. I may have prooved that true the other day when I litterally sold the sweatshirt that I was wearing. A fairly regular customer came in and was checking out all the hand-dye hooded sweatshirts we have for sale. She kept commenting on how much she liked the one I was wearing, then would look at the others, comment again. Finally, I told her that the one that I was wearing was for sale...I had just gotten cold the other day, had no sweatshirt, and had taken it down and put it on. Like that, a sale was made!

Hi all, so I just wanted to post a little info about the sale I'm going to be in soon. It's a sale of 22 vendors from the etsy.com website that are from wisconsin. It's going to be a super fun sale. Here are the details:

WIST Wisconsin Street Team Trunk Show
When: Saturday, December 13, 2008
Time: 5pm to 9pm
Where: 1358 Williamson st., Madison, Wisconsin (home of Lazy Jane’s Cafe)

This year there are over 20 vendors who will be selling their handcrafted wares - everything from holiday gifts and custom gingerbread cookies to funky clothing, unique housewares and beautiful artwork and jewelry.

We'll also be serving complimentary treats and champagne and just want to make this a mellow, fun environment for shoppers to be able to relax, get away from the chaos of the big box holiday shopping, and have a chance to meet the artists.

Please save the date - and come early! First 30 shoppers will receive a free gift bag stuffed with goodies from WIST members!

If you have any questions regarding the show please contact:Andrea at space.odditiesmail@gmail.com or via convo at Space OdditiesorCari via convo at Mud and Mint

I have also set up a facebook page to gather more information and to link vendors websites: check it out!

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=38131447147

I hope you find time to visit us and do a little last minute christmas shopping!

now I can't find my favorite needlenose pliers! Arghhh!

Jared took the day off of work to come with the girls and I to the doctor for there 2 year and 9 month check-up and SHOTS! Cedi weighed in at a whopping 24 lbs and measured 34". Capri was a little bulkier for her age and weighed in at 8lbs 8 oz and measured 28". I have a feeling it won't be too long before Capri is kicking Cedi's butt...time will tell... Then they both had to get shots...they did pretty good, fairly minimal amount of crying. Can't blame them though..it hurts!

After that we headed out to the stores to do some final Christmas Shopping. I'm pretty sure we spent TWO HOURS in Farm and Fleet...way too long. But, we did pretty much finish up the rest of our shopping. Just a few more odds and ends to get. I also picked up the Christmas cards for the girls...which reminds me, I need to get my address list put together...

Now, I am busy posting new pieces of jewelry onto my etsy site. I'm super happy to finally have some fairly decent pictures...not perfect yet, but I'm sure they'll continue to get better (I hope so anyway).

Enjoy the rest of your day everyone!

Yes, Jared (my hubby) finished making a light box for me tonight. I immediately tested it out. It works so much better than no light box...I do think I need to get some more natural light bulbs but other than that...we'll see !

Check out my new JEWELRY listings!

What do you think? I finally took some 'decent' pictures of my jewelry and I just had to stay up to post these. I would love to hear your opinions!Blue Tides Necklacehttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18140750Blue Tides Earringshttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=18140290Blue Tides Bracelethttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=18139663

Yes, it's true! I am amazing. I have both of my girls down for a nap at the SAME TIME! This never happens anymore. I took advantage and managed to photograph the rest of my oragami bags, another denim rag bag and my beaded purse (I may have to wait for the light box on that one). This means there are some more amazing bags to come! I will be adding more bags, onesies and hoodies to the website this week...make sure to find the perfect one for you! Just as a warning...I am unable to reproduce many of these bags...I buy fat quarters specifically for them and I only by one! They are all unique!

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Hello everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful four day weekend. It's snowy here in Wisconsin today and the wind is blowing. I got the girls off to the sitters today so my plan is to clean, quilt, make jewelry, etc, etc. I'm looking forward to being very productive today. I'll try to keep you updated on what I'm working on. I will be posting new items on etsy today as well...keep an eye out!

One project I would like to finish today is a 'I Spy' Square in a Square quilt. It's going to be lap size, but ideal for a 2-8 year old. Hopefully it turns out as cool as it looks in my mind!

Yeah! My 'Disappearing Dog' Quilt made it into a treasury! How exciting! Make sure you check it out! When you do, click on all the different items in it to see more details!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=24196

Thanks to UniquelyNancy from http://www.uniquelynancy.etsy.com/ for including me in your treasury!

I think Cedi had a wonderful birthday yesterday. She enjoyed all of her gifts, her "Dip It" meal and her cake. I think the only glitch for her was the 'nuk fairy' coming and taking away her nuk's. I ended up having to hang out with her for awhile in the middle of the night to help calm her down. Hopefully it doesn't take her too long to be okay without her nuk.

I don't know if anyone's been watching my blog (or even reading it for that matter), but in the last few days I have added links to the etsy team blogs that I've joined. Please check them out...by joining these teams I am agreeing to help get the word out for others in the teams and in exchange, they will do the same for me. I feel like this will be win win for me.

WIST Wisconsin Street Team Trunk Show
When: Saturday, December 13, 2008
Time: 5pm to 9pm
Where: 1358 Williamson st., Madison, Wisconsin (home of Lazy Jane’s Cafe)

Check out this link for more details!

http://wist-etsy.blogspot.com/

This will be my first time as a vendor at the show! I'm very excited...it looks like lots of fun!

Check it out! My T-shirt made a treasury... be sure to click on the link below and click on all the images to get us on the front page!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=34346

Thanks!

I either am suffering from allergies right now or I have a cold...I'm thinking allergies but I can't think what would be causing this. Regardless..it's no fun.

I was accepted onto the EtsyBaby Street team yesterday! I'm very excited. You'll have to check out there store http://shopetsybaby.com/ and blog http://etsybaby.blogspot.com/.

I hope everyone else is feeling better!

I LOVE Calla Lilies. I had lots of them in my wedding bouquet and I still think they are beautiful. Check out this amazing pair of earrings by 1ofmykind:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17415476

I am drooling over this gorgeous red gold lattice bracelet:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17144966

How fun are these rings by keepsakekatie?:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15679746

I think my little girl will have to have one of these once she gets a little bigger (from Spiderbite):

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vt_related_3&listing_id=17628813

If I could figure out an outfit to wear this I would buy it in a flash:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13372585

I think this ring is gorgeous and unique:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=17774739

This bracelet is so beautiful:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=17919467



I hope you enjoyed my picks for today! Until next time!

Etsy has these things called ‘treasuries’ in which people put together things with common things or that are just there favorites. They’re really nice to look through and get different gift ideas, etc, but it is a bit difficult to get one…you have to be very patient. What I’m going to do, at least until I get a little experience, is to create my own “treasury” on my blog. It will keep an ongoing list of my ‘favorite’ things and/or favorite shops on etsy. I hope you enjoy it!

So, how many of you checked out the amazing sales this morning? I did...unfortunately my alarm was set for pm instead of am and I didn't make it out until about 5:15...I was late. I stills snagged some great deals on gifts and as always, enjoyed watching all the people.

Capri is napping right now so I'm going to list a few new items on my etsy account. I think I'll just have some new onesies...but maybe a new fiber bracelet as well...I have to see if the pictures are any good.

I have a busy, busy day planned. I have to get my house cleaned up and make a bunch of food. Tomorrow is Cedi's birthday (can you believe she's going to be 2!) and we're having a "Dip It" party for her. She loves to dip things so I'm making lots of dippable items for everyone to enjoy. My friend Kaitra is coming later today to help me get everything ready.

I hope you all had a wonderful Turkey Day yesterday!

I quickly posted some new upcycled fabric bangles on my etsy site! These were my original idea so make sure you check them out!

Also, make sure you have a Happy and Wonderful Thanksgiving!

Now that you've heard a little about my oldest, Cedi, I'll tell you a little about my youngest.

From Christmas Card Possibilities

Capri Grace Lapacek, was born on February 24th, 2008...her due date. My sister-in-law called me around 1:00pm that day and wished me happy due date...I told her to shut up, she was never coming out. We called my in-laws around 4:00 to come and pick up Cedi. Capri was born at 8:16. This time I got the drugs and it was wonderful (although I didn't get them until I was 9cm...it was still great!).

Capri is my happy baby. As soon as she figured out how to smile that was all she did. You would just look at her and she would have a huge grin from ear to ear...enough to make your heart just melt. She's a little less laid back than Cedi but really nothing I can complain about it. Capri is just starting to stand on her own and I'm expecting to see her take her first step any day now.

I am really blessed with amazing children. I had always wanted boys, knew I would get girls because I deserved them, and now that I have two girls I wouldn't want it any other way.

I know that I will be mentioning my children throughout this blog a lot so I thought I would introduce them. I'll start with my oldest...

From Christmas Card Possibilities

Mercedi Rose Lapacek

Cedi was born on 11/29/06 (I know! She's going to be two on Saturday!) after a short four and a half hour induced labor. She was born naturally (which I don't recommend) because once she started to come there was no stopping her. She was tiny but long (6 lbs 13 oz, 20-inch) and still has the same figure. Cedi was and still is very independent. When we would try to hold her she would scream until we laid her down. We soon figured out she would rather just be on her own. My only complaint would be that I didn't get to cuddle her very much before she was 1...I think I had one day of cuddling and that's because she had a fever.

Cedi is still a very good kid. She is going through a phase of fits if she doesn't get what she wants but we're trying to either ignore it or do the time out thing. It seems to be working, but it definately is hard at times.

Cedi is talking A LOT! When I asked her what she wanted for her birthday, her response was, "BOOBIES!" I couldn't stop laughing and I still haven't figured out how to give that to her.

I'm sure you'll hear much more about her in upcoming posts...

Of course I opened my big mouth and said I would bring the apple pie to Thanksgiving tomorrow...which means I have to make an apple pie today. I am really hoping that there are still some Pillsbury crusts' at the grocery store...otherwise, I really have a lot of work to do tonight...

We had a wonderful time at the Melting Pot last night with our friends Nick and Emily. The food was amazing as usual and it's such a nice environment for really catching up. And of course, it was wonderful to have a coupon for half off our meals and drinks!

My goals for today including posting five new items on etsy, start cleaning the house (I have everyone coming over on Saturday for Cedi's birthday...she's going to be 2!), bring things to the Capri Gallery and Little Blessings to see if there intersted in selling any of it, grocery shopping, and baking an apple pie. Wow, that list got longer as I was typing it...hmmm...

I made a sale yesterday! I sold my "Hungry, Hungry Hippo Onesie" (as shown in the pict

ure)...I was quite excited!

SOLD!

Well, Capri is not really enjoying her playpen anymore down here...I should go! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!

I have my babies for most of the day today so I probably won't get much crafting done. Oh well, it's great spending time with them. It won't be long before I have them downstairs with me doing there own projects.

My husband and some friends of ours are going to the Melting Pot for dinner tonight. I'm very excited! I absolutely love fondu!

Hello everyone! Well, our craft sale this past weekend was a HUGE success. We had tons of people coming through and tons of sales to go with it. I'm very excited since I thought sales would be down from last year...with the economy and all...that was not the case! It was the second year for the sale and I plan on continuing it for years to come and making it a "must attend" sale of the season...we'll see..

Today, the girls spent the day at a sitter's so I could start getting more things posted on my etsy account and start to reorganize the basement since it was an absolute mess after the craziness of the sale. Here are a few new onesies I posted today:



I would love to hear what you think about them! Check out more of my new things at http://www.kimscraftyapple.etsy.com/!

I just got back home from going to the quilt retreat in the Wisconsin Dells hosted by Barb Raisbeck from http://www.quiltsbybarb.com/. It actually lasts from Friday until Sunday, but I didn't want to leave my husband alone all night with two kids under 2 so I just went up for the day. The project was a log cabin quilt, but I didn't get my stuff read in time. Instead, I made a bunch of oragami bags and an awesome appliqued wall hanging out of hand-dyed fabric! I'm really excited to start to quilt it.

I had a really good time at the retreat. It's so nice to be around so many other people that enjoy the same things as I do. It's also great to see the different fabrics and combinations of colors people choose for their quilts. Lots of times is something I would never have done, but looks absolutely incredible.

Barb has another great quilt retreat planned for next fall. For more details check out her website: http://www.quiltsbybarb.com/new2009quiltretreat.htm.

Hello everyone and welcome to my new blog!

I'm creating this to document my journey as a struggling crafter/artist trying to make it with this crazy economy! We'll see how things go!

I've been making things for as long as I remember. My Grandma still tells the story of the "quilt" I made my brother for his 10th birthday (I was 5)...I sewed together the fabric from my mom's rag box - including the furry toilet seat cover! My brother...being the nice guy that he is, was really nice and told me he just loved it!

I never really stopped making things...I was always saving things and creating random things. Luckily, my parents were very supportive of me. When I was in middle school I cut out all the cool ads from teen magazines and created this crazy collage that coverd my cieling...it drove my mom nuts but she still let me do it :) I had an art teacher in middle school that told my parents at teacher conferences to buy me any supplies I asked for because I would use them...my parents listened. If it weren't for them I would never be making the things I am making today!

I went to college in 2000 for civil engineering. Unfortunately, it was difficult to mix art classes into my curriculum and still graduate in a reasonable time frame. I managed to take one drawing class and a pottery class...but that was about it.

When I met my husband's family I instantly knew that I would get along well with my mother-in-law. She was a crafter too! I found out that she used to teach crafting classes and was an amazing quilter. After I had been dating my husband for a year they let me display my jewelry in their apple store. It was a huge success and has continued to grow for the last five years.

Also, about eight months into my relationship with my husband I decided that I wanted to learn the real way to quilt. We went to my in-laws every Tuesday night for months and I would work on my first 'real' quilting project (I didn't own my own sewing machine at the time) and we would get a free, delicious dinner. I fell in love with quilting and have been making them ever since.

I can go on and on about all the different things I do, but I need to get busy working on things. I'll tell more of my stories later! I hope you enjoy my blog!

To see some examples of my stuff check out my website: http://www.kimscraftyapple.etsy.com/