gold school

DIY (Design It Yourself)

The internet never ceases to amaze me. Who knew one day we'd be able to shoot a design through space and have it created to our specifications in a lab somewhere? (Yes, I do have a very Ted Stevens-like grasp on the workings of the internet, thank you.) Not only can you download free patters (see: BurdaStyle) and watch how-to's (see: Instructables) via the web, you can also design your own supplies! 

Want to custom printed fabric?  Check out Spoonflower (while you're at it, why not vote for my design in the Fabric of the Week contest!)  There is no minimum fabric order and no set-up fee. You can order a swatch for $5, a fat quarter for $11, or multiple yards at $18 each.  Here are a few samples:

"Suburbia" fabric
by j.m.aranez

branch fabric
by strawbunny

Custom pendants, purse handles, displays, furniture.. what ever you can think up! At Ponoko, you can design a product and get it made in your own personal factory.  Choose from materials like wood, acrylic and felt - and using their Photomake program, all you need is a sketch and you can create it!

Epershand necklace
by lsette



Umbrella Tree Jewelry Hanger
by KaiserRoyale

Craft Booth Display Time

Sitting in on a talk on craft show displays with Something's Hiding in Here and Rebound Designs (two craft show GENIUSES!) - I remembered how much fun it was designing and planning your booth! Christine and I had fun last spring working on our Fact & Fancy booth; and I'll be setting up next weekend at Handmade Cavalcade. So its time to start thinking about displays again! Here are some fun vintage Etsy Finds to brighten up your displays! P.S. Thank you Summit of Awesome for being... well.... awesome!