It's baby season, everywhere I go I see pregnant women with their belly hanging out there ready to deliver. As it is I currently have two brand new nephews, a cousin due in less than six weeks and a best friend due in August!

With that in mind I am on the look out for "hip" things to do for the baby shower I will be hosting.  That search brought me to Mylittleangelco which makes baby shower items.  I am not hosting a co-ed baby shower but when I saw this "Daddy's tool belt" I had to blog about it. This is just a perfect item to help make Dad feel a part of the festivities... create a game of all the items that Dad would need to changing those dirty diapers! I love the goggles for those unexpected squirts from little boys, or the clothes pin for that stinky smell!!

IntricateCreations creates beautiful accessories for a baby's head to the amazing bouquet of crystals, shown to the right, that will shimmer into any wedding.  Flowers are gorgeous but they will wilt away in no time, and don't sparkle as the lights from your wedding hit each bead....

"You only have one day to be your best. Add this bouquet and make it extra special."

Shawna, creator of IntricateCreations, finds her inspiration everywhere and is always up for a challenge to create something you might have in mind.  You will be pleasantly surprised....

"I am a creative whirlpool. I may look at something and turn it into something completely different."

The "Give a Hoot" line

So here I am enjoying my own personal office space with my cup of warm peppermint hot chocolate skimming the latest Etsy shops and what do I come across? This wonderful "Whom?" hat knitted by Alice at Throughthelooking.  I started reading the description and immediately new this was perfect for my spouse who always corrects my grammar!!

"Meet the newest member of the Give A Hoot family, WHOM! He's curious, inquisitive, and likes to correct the other woodland creatures' grammar."

After enjoying my laugh, I scrolled through more of the "give a hoot" line and found these darling wool fingerless mittens with gorgeous owls on them! Owls are so popular today and great to wear.  They're wise and adorable, you can't go wrong! What a great combination for those cold days... not that sunny southern California gets that cold but hey they're still a great pair!

Feeling refreshed...

Spring cleaning brings just being clean.  Brittany at Mountain Creek Gift creates invigorating products with all natural ingredients for that truly refreshed feeling. I love this quote from her; it's so honest...

"You never have to worry when using my products, because I will never use anything that is not completely natural...We can never duplicate these perfect ingredients in a lab, and we shouldn't change them in any way with chemicals." 

 The organic lavender citrus cream pictured above is wonderful for dry chapped skin.  A little bit of this at night and you'll be smooth in the morning!  Or get this wonderful soap set that comes with a vintage tin. I think I might this snatch this one up myself to go with my newly remodeled bath room. :)

Oh what a little IKEA can do...

With remodeling comes spring cleaning!! I am so happy that we are remodeling our living space. It feels so wonderful to clear out items that have just accumulated over time. We have filled up two dumpster worth of carpeting, knick knacks, old papers, cardboard boxes... the list goes on and on. Who doesn't love spring cleaning??? I never really understood the "spring" part of the term since I usually do a small cleaning three of four times a year but to get into every little thing I have in this place and decide if it's worth keeping... wow.

With that in mind, there is a sale going on over at my Etsy store 40% off select items. There are great items just moving on to other things. Thanks!

Do you have any fabulous ideas for organization and cleaning? If so, please share! I am so interested in all the ways I can better this space, especially my office area.

(The photos are a before and after ... so far ... still need better organization)

New item listed....

Even though I am in the middle of remodeling and my house is a complete mess, I still managed to get my latest pregnancy album photographed and up on Etsy for sale! I am so proud of this album. It is different from my original pregnancy albums in the sense that I have put a different flare to it. I combined a basic album with questions and answers with the opportunity of adding those ultrasound photos and belly shots with journaling.  Plus having my newly purchased Cricut at my side to ease through the embellishments make it so much easier!! Thank you to my spouse for saying okay to that purchase.

Remodeling!!

Hi all,
I am taking a short break from blogging about Etsy shops while I complete a small remodel on my physical place.  We are painting the walls, ripping up the carpet and putting down wood flooring, getting rid of some things, adding others.... it goes on. My spouse is very ambitious and seems to think we will be finished quite quickly but we will have to see how it goes.  Currently, the walls in the living room and bedroom are painted. It's a start.  Friday is the removal of carpet and wood replacement. That will be nice so that our dogs, Ollie and Hazel, aren't able to rip it up and cleaning up the hair will be much easier.
I will update as things go... have a wonderful week!!

ChelseaRainbow from New York City creates jewelry that is great to enhance any wardrobe.  As she states in her profile on Etsy, every item is individual works of art...


"I treat each item I make as an individual work of art, I create and sell timeless jewelry meant for day into evening wear."
  


Besides her jewelry she also creates items for entertainment, wine stoppers and wine glass charms that are just darling.  With each charm being unique it allows you to be able to separate your guests glass from your own .  Well that is if you are able to remember what your charm looked like of course!!

Beads are so much fun to play with; The sound they make when you drop one into a pile of them, the variety of colors. There are so many things that you can do with beads and Ideology proves that with her wonderful shop.

"I have enjoyed artistic self-expression ever since I can remember, and I am a creator of many forms: drawing, painting, jewelry making, and so forth. In my shop you will find items handmade with passion and joy."

These dangling blue, gray and black earrings are perfect to compliment a simple outfit or as a night on the town accessory. I love the different shapes and shades , they just sparkle! And the price you just can't find, even with shipping included you are making out with an amazing deal!!

Lori with Chickabeestudio makes darling items for children.

"I'm a self confessed craftaholic! I live in beautiful Northern California with my husband and two kids and our crazy black lab.  I love to keep my hands busy with anything creative and crafty."

Whether it's an organic ones for the infant to sport a "Night Owl" look ...

Or this Mock Sock Monkey that is all dressed up for Easter with his bunny hat and Easter egg.  Even better, the hat is removable! The Sock Monkey goes with the season and gets to be normal banana loving monkey the rest of the time!!

Each time I do a little more searching on Etsy, I am amazed to see so many different crafts that are being made.

The designs are all so unique and unexpected like from FabricGreetings which makes fabric postcards. These postcards are so detailed I have a hard time believing that they are really made out of fabric!

"I truly believe that each and every person deserves to get a card that is perfect for them. So I try very hard to make these cards unique and original. All cards meet the USPS requirements and can be sent through the mail for the cost of a first class stamp. So not only will your recipient enjoy getting a unique card, the postman also can enjoy what he is delivering."

Receiving something like these in the mail would really be a special treat.  Who doesn't love to check the mail but to only find those nasty bills? Who wouldn't love to find something as fabulous as a quilted postcard instead?? This would definitely bring a smile to anyone's face! And there are just so many reasons for sending a little note to a friend.  Please stop in at FabricGreetings to check out all of her amazing fabric postcards!

From AnnaSkates love for scrapbooking comes this wonderful opportunity for her to share what she enjoys with the rest of us, creating wonderful stationery pieces such as this wedding invitation...

"I love being able to provide friends and family...and friends of family...and friends of friends with custom and handmade designs through cards, journals and photo albums that capture the very spirit of the person for whom they are made."

As one customer states it best...

"To anyone who is thinking about going to a high end invitations boutique in their area....DON'T!"

From simple to glamour ...

Priya123 makes such realist flowers for your hair!  Thank you to your mother for teaching you the beauty of these and for you in making such wonderful accessories to make an outfit sparkle.

"Making flowers is my hobby:). This shop is just the presentation of my flowers. I have inherited the art of sewing & designing from my mother who used to stich beautiful frocks, all my creations are dedicated to my mom. "

These purple satin flowers are perfect for a finishing touch on a wedding hair style, a few curls and these... gorgeous!




Oh wow, and these flower clips on for a woman's shoes! It makes a simple pair of shoes be so much more than just shoes, Cinderella anyone?

Joyoustreasures

Johanna of Joyoustreasures makes darling crocheted bookmarks of various types of flowers.  Each one has such vibrant colors that they seem to be more real like than the real thing!

"My grandmother left me many things when she passed away. I am always working on new projects created with her supplies to keep and remember her by. I love it! I wear her beads all the time!"

With the new popularity of e-readers, it's nice to see an artist sticking to the roots of simplicity with a memento such as a bookmark to hold your place in that great adventure or novel you are reading.  The feeling of the pages and the ability to get lost in story... oh how wonderful!

Resonates

Wow what a find! I love when you come across an item that is just so simple but speaks volumes. The Etsy shop  Resonates does this. They have taken such simple items as the everyday nickel or dime and turned it into a beautiful piece of jewelry. Here's a little bit of their reasoning behind their shop...

"My husband and I used to call our son Mr. Money Bags for finding loose change wherever we went. Then one day he passed a shiny nickel on the beaten black top without bothering to pick it up. His indifference made me sadly realize how nickels were no longer worthy to even the preschool pocket anymore."

This is a one of a kind concept from what I can tell and creates wonderful pieces to wear around your neck with the knowledge that you are up-cycling a simple nickel.  They can be customized for even more individuality as well like the karate girl necklace shown to the left. Or as I have seen from their feedback, wear a "RUN" necklace only on days that you run to feel that sense of accomplishment. Brilliant idea!

RoseGlen in style

Today Rose Glen is bringing us style...

"I have always enjoyed creating and making my own clothes. In the past I made clothes for a local shop selling to plus size women which sadly has closed, so I understand the frustration in obtaining clothing that is fashionably and stylish, for those of us that do not fit the cat walk shape."

 With her fabulous color choices and wonderful design she is going places.  Check out this Retro Black & White Skirt, I love how it flows and can see it being so versatile!

Eco Friendly owls

Maria from the Mariapalito on Etsy has the cutest felt owls which are great for party favors or toys.

"...All my toys are made by hand using only Eco-friendly felt from recycled post-costumer plastic bottles. I design all my toys from scratch, I made the sketch, then I draw the shape pattern, I select the textures, cut the pattern and then I sew it! All my toys are non-toxic, non-allergic..."

It's wonderful that not only are these adorable they are great for our environment as well!

Aqua Mini Owls

EZCareKnits

Whether you love to knit or just love the finished project of knitting EZCareKnits has something to offer you!

They have patterns in PDF format, made by them, that you can use immediately to get started on that wonderful project or completed projects like the one below.  Wouldn't a newborn look fabulous in this cozy cocoon?!

Cocoon with Beanie...

Tweeting Antique Basket Lady

Love this Tote/Diaper Bag from Antique Basket Lady on Etsy!

"The back of the bag has been quilted in a diamond patten and features one of my favorite fabrics from the 'Pretty Bird' collection by Pillow & Maxfield for Michael Miller Fabrics. Pretty colors such as Apricot, Tangerine, Raspberry Red, Scarlet, Shamrock, Espresso make this bag an asset to any wardrobe."

The quality of work that Sue at Antiquebasketlady is amazing!  And each design is so cute!

Dragonfly Artwork

Valentina of Vaniasartshop says...

"I am an artist, first and foremost, but have put away my paint brushes for the time being as I am taking a break from art - in the meantime, I am loving my newest hobby of making clay pendants, earrings, bracelets in various designs that closely resemble my painted artwork."

I have to disagree with the statement that she has taken a break from art as this Dragonfly pendant is a work of art! Please take a peek at all of these wonderful pieces...

StonedRoses never looked so sweet!

Etsy shop StonedRoses comes from the United Kingdom and brings some very enchanting items, true one of a kinds.

"My jewellery is designed, 'on the board', without any previous ideas or sketching. It just happens as I go along and that is my biggest thrill...seeing what materialises from the various colour, shape and texture combinations."

Below features a splendid Chunky Jade, Jasper & Agate necklace which is made up of chunky nuggets of Jasper and rectangles of olive, yellow/green Jade, set with tiny gold Czech glass beads, decorative links and handmade birds nest silver beads with a handcrafted hammered fastening and finished with a dangling yellow/cream chunk of Agate.  I love the earth tones of this necklace! 

 

Handmadebyani brings us wonderful Organza bags that are available in a variety of colors.  I can see using these bags for potpourri, easter chocolate, oh and great for wedding favors!!  They are made with a satin drawstring which just finishes that elegant look.

Organza bags (set of 50)

From Laurie's Custom Create ...

"What started out with making a necklace to match a dress I had has just grown & grown. From posting a few pictures on Facebook to starting my own Etsy shop, I'm enjoying every minute of this incredible journey." 

The teal and black necklace below is just one example of Laurie's stunning pieces.  It has circles of teal blue & black agate contrast with black onyx cubes that have been drilled diagonally so they lay on edge. A few crystals add some sparkle, and silver-plated chain finishes off the necklace back to the barrel clasp.  Wow, perfect accessory for a night out on the town I think!

Mannings Creations

Jillian Mannings is designer/owner of the wonderful Etsy shop Mannings Creations.  She takes simple beads and transforms them into adorable earrings and bracelets.  Old costume jewelry becomes a new piece of artwork for Jillian.  It is true what they say "One's trash is another's treasure".


These super light earrings are handcrafted with green tagua slices and fuschia acai beads.  They look deliciously chic, don't they?

Tagua and Acai Earrings

Soul Savvy is very Savvy!

Throughout the day, when I need a break from working on my own projects for Fin - A Baby Store, I take a peek at the various items that Etsy has to offer. Today brought me to DeAnn creator of Soul Savvy.  DeAnn started her Etsy shop less than a month ago and yet she already has quite a few gorgeous items up for sale.  Reading her profile she states that she has "Obsessive Beads Disorder" which I would believe after seeing these items!

This beautifully Wire Wrapped Plumeria Flower Pendant with blue frosted crystals is amazing! I am in awe at how the wonderful jewelry is made... definitely not a talent of mine. Soul Savvy, you have got it going on!

First BNR as a curator!!

Just opened my first BNR on Etsy this evening and I'm a little bit nervous! I truly hope that it goes over well.
Hooray for Baby is the title and the first two sales gives the buyer two slots to use!!
Time to continue promoting!!

Pinderella makes Pins!!

Excerpt from Susan owner of the Pinderella shop on Etsy...

"My journey making accessories began 17 years ago after randomly creating a pin of a city skyline. My mom quickly snatched it and wore it to work. Shortly after, her coworkers were asking to purchase pins and my business was born."  

Using light weight metallic plastic she creates some adorable pins that would make great additions to any blouse or sweater!


I love this quilted shamrock pin ... it's perfect for the up and coming St. Patricks Day and brings together two of my favorite things, quilting and being Irish! There is such detail and love the "bling" to tie it all together!

Featured in a showcase on Etsy!

Fin - A Baby Store is going to be featured on the front page of the paper goods section on Etsy! The pregnancy scrapbook is listed as well as my individual premade scrapbook pages.  During the showcase I have created a SALE, 10% off for every item in the shop if you use coupon code MANICMONDAY during checkout.
I hope tomorrow brings in some views, fans and hey I'll even take some sales. LOL.

BNR Treasury today!!

I'm listed in a BNR treasury on Etsy!! If any of you that don't know what BNR stands for, it's a Buy and Replace listing.  You buy an item and then your listing replaces that space.  It's really a great way to get your items promoted as well as a great way to see some many different items in one place.
Come check us out, we are trying to make the front page on Etsy which is a really big deal! :)
BNR Treasury - buy in is just $2!!

Long Beach California Treasury on Etsy

So I wanted to put together a treasury on Etsy today but didn't know what I wanted to do it on.  I had completed a really nice treasury on living green, check it out here Living Green - the good life so I wanted to follow the theme of giving back.  (One of the shops on Etsy, The Bearfootshaman, does Pay It Forward listings which really kept me in the mood.)

That brings me to my Long Beach California treasury.  It is full of local shops on Etsy and there is some nice items.  I knew this was an artistic town and that was proven with this showcase.

Just a taste ... 

Appearance Upgrade! - Complete!

Sim and Charlie Designs has completed our new logo, banner and business cards!

Appearance Upgrade!

So I decided to finally throw in the towel on trying to do it myself and I am getting professional help (when it comes to my business graphics that is!).  I found a great shop on Etsy called SimandCharlieDesigns that does graphics for Etsy shops with banners, business cards and images. Below is just a sampling of her work. It will be wonderful to have a professional look  for all of Fin - A Baby Store images.  Tina (the store owner) is working away on the design and I can't wait! Check back to see how it all looks. :)

SUPER SUNDAY SALE

15% off all items if you use the code SUPERSUNDAY Sale!!

Crocheted Baby Hat

Newly listed is the first crocheted baby hat for Fin - A Baby Store and it is a beauty!  The yarn is made of a soft, washable material for that smooth feeling for baby and that easy hassle free feeling for parents.  With these winter months here it's a great addition to any baby wardrobe.  I hope to be able to list many more crocheted and knitted items to our store as it's definitely a relaxing thing to work on! :)
  Check it out ... Crocheted Baby Hat - Pale Green

De-Clutter your business

Although I have just started Fin - A Baby Store and selling through Etsy there are things that I have already done to clutter up my business.  I have too many ways that I am trying to use for outlets to promote that I am not able to keep up with them all, and am lacking in the ones that I really wish to continue such as this blog.  With that in mind I have signed up for De-Clutter Your Online Business by Indiebizchicks.com.  My hope is to decrease some outlets, enhance others, and learn something new along the way to help promote.  The class starts on February 21st and goes for 6 weeks.  I'm sure I'll be back to report some of the information!  And if you are over your head in your business there is still time to sign up!

Purple hues...

It's a rainy dark day outside in what is usually a beautifully sunny Southern California day.  With that in mind I decided to create a collection of "purple hued" items that are showcased on Etsy. The different shades of purple are a little brighter than it is outside and it doesn't make it seem so gloomy to me.
Below are just some of the items, check out my treasury to see them all!!
Enjoy!

Sunset Hues Fine Art Photo


Hue of Purple Tutu Dress

SUPER SUNDAY SALE

Hi All,
We at Fin A Baby Store are having a 15% off sale for all items within the store!  Just use the coupon code SUPERSUNDAY and it will deduct the 15% at the end.  This does not include the shipping or sales tax.  All orders can be custom made and ready for shipment within 3-5 days.
Happy Shopping!!

New Product Pictures

We have new product pictures for our scrapbooks and gift baskets! Here are a few, check out the rest on Etsy!

Toddler Hair Clip

What's going on over at Etsy you might ask? 

Well, while we here at Fin are working hard on our latest order (A Custom Baby Scrapbook), Brenda over at Baby Bird Clippies is busy churning out some beautiful hair clips like this one!