MISI - Make It Sell It

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 09:39:00 +0000

Best wishes for 2010.

I'm looking for volunteers to be interviewed for the Misi Fabulous Fridays, please pm me through Misi if you are interested and I will send you a list of questions.

I'm also looking for guest bloggers ~ you must be a Misi member and willing to do at least one blog per month.

Thanks,
Helen
xxx

Merry Christmas!!

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 09:06:00 +0000

Merry Christmas everyone!

Hope you all have a fabulous Christmas and catch up with you in the New Year on the Misi Forums...

xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ LoubieJewels

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:04:00 +0000

This week's lovely lady... Louise from LoubieJewels...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
I started card making but it didnt challenge me anymore so one day I woke up and thought I would like to create something stunning and went shopping, I havent looked back since, its been about 2 years.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
I find in general people would rather go and get something mass produced and not shop mademade, if they do they expect handmade to be cheaper but generally we can not compete with these prices, its a shame I think there are so many talented ladies out there - i'll always shop handmade if I can.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
Research first, I started with nothing, no ideas and guessed- looking back I would have researched more, I love my stuff now but cringe a little at my early stuff

How did you find Misi?
Crafts beautiful I think, it was a small note on the site and I could have easily missed it - I think it was fate, I love it and spend as much time as I can on it, the ladies (and Gents) are some of the nicest people I know and Emma has done wonders for us all.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
I've developed a new love for Glass pearls, I love their colours and how bold they look, i`m just working on a collection and I love them all.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
I love the bears on Paw Prints of Staffordshire, The tins of Wisteria and of course all the handmade beads - I know i'm terrible but there are just so many to choose from

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite TV programme?
I'd have to say Greys anatomy, I love it I knnow its not like real life but there is always some sort of romance and drama going on

What is your ideal vacation destination?
Jersey in the Summer, my Uncle lives there and its full of little boutiques and I found a great little bead shop, just one girl in a beach shack all day every day, life looks just so peaceful and beautiful

What is your favourite website (other than Misi)?
Is there one other than Misi - well and my website of course (www.loubiejewels.co.uk), i'd have to say Facebook for catching up with my school friends, and its where I got back intouch with my other half

Do you have a hobby (other than your craft)?
Only really salsa dancing, but i'm always planning something even if it is the shop I aim to have one day, Lolas Boutique.

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Channing Tatum, man can dance and he's beautiful! He's the only one on my "can do" list!

Thank you for chatting to us today Louise. Take a look around LoubieJewels for last minute Christmas gifts...

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ MornieG Jewellery

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:01:00 +0000

This week's Misi crafter makes beautiful jewellery. Please welcome MornieG...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
The christmas before last I couldn't find anything I liked or could afford to wear to a ball. Always looking at craft magazines and saw one with a necklace on the cover I liked the look of. Found that it was a to do project so I bought the magazine, made some alterations, ordered all the bits from USA as I didn't know any better at that time and it was an American edition, and eventually made it after a few false starts, with days to spare. But I was so proud of it and still have it. I was totally hooked on the idea of making jewellery, but only seriously started the following June when I got a web site and a gallery to sell some through. I want to find the time to teach myself to silversmith. I have all the basic kit just need to stop procrastinating and get on with it.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
Time is the biggest one. As a wage slave I still work full time, anything from 40 to 50 hours a week, help my OH with designs and seeing clients sometimes for his business, take a couple of dance classes a week and make the jewellery. Then there is keeping up the websites, taking the photos, craft fairs when i can get into one at short notice, and all the other things connected with running a home. The jewellery just has to be slotted in between everything else often late in the evenings. The only TV programme I watch is Strictly on a saturday night, I'm not much fun at a gathering when everyone is talking about whats on the box, I've no idea!

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
Could say lots of things like, research your market, sort your funding, organise your time, get other members of your household to support you and help out, don't get carried away buying components willy nilly for stock, but all that would be, do what I say, not what I do . We are all in this for different reasons, I am trying to run a viable business direct to my clients, unique quality goods at a fair price, others may be a hobby maker which would have a differernt set of rules, reasons and goals.

How did you find Misi?
In a roundabout sort of way by word of mouth, but I think the source was Jean from Talking Beads, thanks Jean.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
Often the favourite is the latest design you make. I have started to work with sea glass from Rob Johnson and I absolutely adore it, especially the beads he makes from it. They are expensive but the romance of sea glass is wonderful, imagining where it might have originated, its former life, firstly transformed into beads by a lampworker to then be made into something beautiful ( I hope ) and useful like jewellery, recycling at its best.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
Everybody says they can't choose as there are so many and they are right, I haven't even scratched the surface of viewing them all yet, and the rate they are increasing is wonderful. Just found Stickman, his walking canes are amazing and beautiful. As a furniture designer I love timber and appreciate his craft. I would have one just to stand in a corner and look at. Dogplant is wonderful. Martins planters were my first purchases from MISI. He made me a special order black cat and a cow for Christmas presents, he must have liked the suggestion as they went straight into his shop. Jewellery wise, I think it has to be The Hairy Growler, I covet the fork bangle, by the time you read this I may well be the proud owner of one !

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite time of day?
Sunrise or sunset, not that I get to see too many sunrises as I'm an owl rather than a lark. The sheer beauty of those times of the day can take your breath away.

What is your ideal vacation?
Has to be by water somewhere. I go to Norfolk to have a few days to get my head together sometimes, holed up in a little cottage by myself, and walk the beaches around Heacham, read, listen to music and relax. I take my jewellery and if I want to still be making something at 3 in the morning I can and sleep till 10, not that I do sleep in, as I want to be up and on the beach.

What is your favourite colour?
To wear, I live in black but lilacs, purples, pinks I suppose, but not pastels clear and bright.

What is your favourite animal?
Tigeress, the perfect feline. Beautiful, lithe, elegant, fiesty, clever, captivating, dangerous. Everything I aspire to, but never will be, the perfect woman.

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Daniel Craig. Not into 'pretty' men, got to be a bit rugged, tall, with come to bed eyes, and look a bit naughty ( You can interpt that how you like ha ha )

How many DVDs do you have?
None, never have time to watch them. I have the loan of a set of Garth Brooks concert DVD's and they have been sat there for nearly 2 years now without even been taken out of the box. One day, maybe this Christmas !

Visit MornieG Jewellery on Misi for a tantalising taste of gorgeous goodies. Quick ~ you only have 2 weeks until Christmas!

xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Fairly Girly

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:05:00 +0000

Today we are talking to Lorraine from Fairly Girly. Huge apologies to Lorraine ~ I am soooo not organised this morning and this came up without pictures first. Just fixed it so you can see a few of her beautiful creations...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

About two years ago I changed my job at the College slightly to job share with a colleague. Then I saw a jewellery making course advertised on one of my days off and thought I would like to have a go at that. I had sort of given up on my other hobbies when I had my son and thought it was time I did something for me! My friends encouraged me to take it a step further and start to sell what I make and Fairly Girly was born about a year ago.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

The only negative for me would be lack of time - as a busy working mum there is never enough hours in a day and we would all like to spend more time crafting.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Just to have fun and be as creative as you like, it really doesn't have to be that expensive to begin with. A basic tool set, some findings, threads and beads will get you started to see if you like it. You will soon find that you have a mountain a beads!

How did you find Misi?

I found Misi through a craft forum and took a look and thought it was worth listing a few items. I think we have all found that it is a very friendly site and has a great sense of community where we all help each other.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

I think it has to be the sterling silver aqua hearts bracelet the links of hearts make this very eyecatching.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

There are so many wonderful shops on Misi it is hard to chose one.......but if I had to pick I will say Carolyn's Creations as she made me two custom orders for a birthday and 50th anniversary, and they were delighted with their gifts.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite way to travel?

I mostly walk to work dropping my son off on route......that sounds really good doesn't it! I suppose my favourite way would be by plane because that would mean we are going on holiday :-)

What is your favourite chocolate?

I love white chocolate and as a child remember loving a pink, pink panther bar as a treat......showing my age here I feel.

What is your favourite time of day?

Has to be mid evening, all the jobs done and sitting down to relax.

What is your favourite place that you have lived?

I have only ever lived in two places, St Austell in Cornwall where my family still lives and Bideford in Devon where I now live. I think I am lucky to have only lived in the South West, being spoilt having beaches, moors and countryside right on the doorstep.

What is your all-time favourite movie?

This is a tricky one for me as don't get much time to watch movies and the ones we have recently are childrens ones.......the most recent being James and the Giant Peach. My son had to go to school as a Roald Dahl character recently and this is what he chose.

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?

Another tricky one.....Johnny Depp.

Thank you for allowing us to chat to you Lorraine. Lorraine's shop on Misi is Fairly Girly, go and visit now.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Mad about Bags

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:01:00 +0000

This week's Misi Crafter is Tracy from Mad about Bags... Wow, you really need to take a look at this ladies store, seriously stunning bags.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I've been crafting since I was a little girl, knitting, sewing, cross stitching and much more but I started making bags back in 2005 when i made a bag for my daughter Rachel -a pink parisian cat design complete with beads and marabou trim, I then started making them as gifts for her friends and it just went from there.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

Buying fabric/being given fabric - I just can't stop or say no, it doesn't stop at fabric unfortunately as i have cross stich kits, wool, buttons, and trims too. I think even if I lived to be 150 years old I'd still never finish all the projects that I have. I can't believe when I first got married I only had a couple of small boxes of fabrics and crafting materials. My solution to this problem was to have a workshop in the garden its huge 24"x12" but I've still managed to fill it to the rafters with fabric

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Buy an overlocker I love mine and it gives a professional finish to you bags (always remember though not to phone your husband whilst he is in a meeting and you're in the sewing machine shop to ask if you can buy said overlocker as while its a most important decision for you he's really not that bothered which one you buy)
Use good quality interfacings again these give your bags a smooth finish and a firm bottom!!!
Dedicate a room to your sewing that way you can start and finish when you have the time rather than having to pack away each time, and if that's not possible use the dining room table and eat off your lap!!!
Marry a very understanding man who doesn't mind you stealing his shed, filling your house with crafts and spending money on sewing machines and fabric!!!

How did you find Misi?
I was searching for UK based handmade websites and after hours of trawling the net found MISI and was hooked straight away.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
I love the Pink Ribbon Handbag - I've had this fabric for a little while and couldn't decide what to do with it, and then it was Breast Cancer Awareness month last month (Oct) so I teamed it with some hot pink fabric and made this bag.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
oohh! that's really hard as there's so many fabulous shops to choose from
I've just had a look in my favourite shops and my top three would have to be
Badge the Badger
Rosy Tint
and Katianne
but if I had to choose one it would be Rosy Tint as I've bought a couple of knitted toys from Rachael and they're just fantastic.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite season?
I love the Autumn when all the leaves turn golden

What is your ideal vacation?
New England in the Fall (autumn)

What is your favourite chocolate?
I'm a white chocolate kinda gal, the milky bars are on me!!!!

What is your favourite colour?
green with red hair it couldn't be anything else!!!

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
I always find these questions kind of hard as I've like films but not really in terms of who's in them just whether i like them or not but if I had to choose then it would probably be Kevin Kostner in the bodyguard

What is your favourite band/singer/type of music?
I like lots of different music and can't really say I have a favourite, as long as its got a catchy tune and good lyrics so that i can sing along (badly) then I'm happy.

Please stop by Tracy's shop ~ Mad about Bags. I'm sure you'll find something gorgeous for a friend, daughter, niece, granny...

xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ All that Glitters

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0000

Today's lovely Misi crafter is Shona from All that Glitters. Obviously you can probably tell from her shop name, Shona loves sparkly, glittery stuff ~ a woman after my own heart. Let's find out a little more about her...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

My jewellery making began with Fimo back in the early 1990s. My poor suffering Mum still has some of the fetching fluorescent Christmas earrings and day-glow broaches I made. The colour pallet expanded in 2007 when I enrolled on a 6 week beginners jewellery evening course. Where I fell in love with jewellery making all over again.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

Chipped nail varnish and a small bank balance! Luckily the two things cancel each other out! Buy cheap nail varnish as you need to redo it quite often and then you have more money left to buy beads!!!!!!!!! (It doesn’t work like that at all! But as I have no will power to resist lovely beads I tell myself it does!)

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Give up dreaming of ever having nice nails again! Also go along to your local bead shop and sign up for a class. Bead shop people are usually madly passionate about beads and will try and help you as much as they can.

How did you find Misi?

I met Emma at a craft fair in December 2008 and signed up when I got home!

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

The Brilliance Bracelet in Crystal Silver is one of my all time favourite things! It’s just so sparkly! I also love the teacup pin cushions. I only made them because I wanted one myself ;)

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

Now that is a difficult question!!! I love shops which have items which are a bit unusual. Anything sparkley usually also gets my attention!

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite way to travel?

Train

What is your favourite chocolate?

Peanut M&Ms

What is your favourite time of day?

Late afternoon. I have no idea why! Maybe it’s because it’s the perfect time to eat cake?

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)?

I love Dooce.com (I’m going to go to America and steal Chuck!)

What is your all-time favourite movie?

Beetlejuice or Jack & Sarah or Lilo & Stitch – a bit of a selection there!

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?

Alan Davies, Wentworth Miller or Seth Grogan! Got to keep my options open

Thank you so much for chatting to us Shona. For more of Shona's glittery creations, take a peek at her Misi shop All that Glitters

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ LoobyCrafts

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:52:00 +0000

Misi crafter of the week... Louise from Looby Crafts.
Welcome, let's learn a little bit about Louise.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

5 years ago my OH suggested we make our own Christmas cards, so we trundled off to Hobbycraft, bought some stuff and settled down at the dining table. Well he made 1 card and was bored, where as I was completely hooked and sat there all day! It’s just grown from there really – one small box of stuff to a whole room full!

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

Not really, the biggest thing is having so many ideas in my head and not enough time to get them all done – so I make myself lots of lists!

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Just play around and experiment! Don’t get hung up on if your stuff is as good as other peoples’ etc. Just find your own style and embrace it – the whole point of a hobby such as papercrafting is to ENJOY it!

How did you find Misi?

Last November I did my first ever craft fair and I did so well I came home all fired up and googled “sell handmade” and there was MISI! I loved the look of the site so I registered and Looby Crafts was born!

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

It would have to be this desk tidy, I don’t normally get too attached to the things I make, but I wouldn’t be too sad if this didn’t sell!

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

I can’t possibly choose just one! There are so many talented people on MISI, but I would have to say Sprinkles Sparkles for fabulous jewellery and accessories, Carolyn's Creations for personalised embroidery and The Pink Fairy Cake for all sorts of wonderful stuff!

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite time of day?

I am so not a morning person! So definitely about 10pm, sitting in my craft room creating and watching a DVD – bliss!

What is your favourite chocolate?

Definitely a Wispa – so glad they brought those back!

What is your favourite colour?

PINK!

What is your all-time favourite movie?

Gone in 60 seconds

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?

David Boreanaz – swoon!

How many DVDs do you have?

Embarrassingly far too many to count, but probably around 400

Thank you Louise. Louise's shop is Looby Crafts, go over to Misi and take a look at more of this talented crafter's work.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Sprinkles Sparkles

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:05:00 +0000

This Friday we have a sparkly lady named Avril and her store Sprinkles Sparkles.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
I started out by making key rings, which I would hand out to my friends and relatives as little gifts. That’s where the obsession started!
I would pop into the local bead shop, buying glass beads that were bright and colourful, where I then made my first pair of earrings!

I have been making jewellery for four years and beaded accessories about six months.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
Making jewellery can be very expensive, if you don’t limit yourself to a budget. I have learnt my lesson to only buy what I need, when I need it! I can then spend more money on booking craft and trade fairs, that I absolutely love doing.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
Do your research!
Go online, pick up books from the library about beading or buy magazines. Find out what interests you, like bead jewellery for example then find out about the tools you will need, the beading wire that you will be using, and how much it’s all going to cost you!

How did you find Misi?
I found out about MISI while browsing a fellow crafters website! I saw the link at the bottom of the page, clicked it, and signed up to MISI almost immediately!

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
It has to be my ‘Fairies in the Garden Bracelet’. It’s very bright and colourful, made from glass, hematite stars, coloured freshwater pearls with a huge blue glass heart, with a hanging fairy charm.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
It has be Looby Crafts! Her work is fantastic. Not only that, but Louise welcomes commissions through her shop. I have had a fair few bespoke cards made by Lou, and they have all been fabulous!

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite place to visit?
It has to be my childhood holiday town of Burnham-on-sea, in Somerset. It’s about an hours drive from Bath, on a good day! We try to get down there as often as possible, just spending the day down there walking along the road by the beach (I don’t like sand!), browsing the shops, eating ice cream, and going to the arcade to spend my 2p’s!

What is your favourite chocolate?
Easy! It’s got to be Maltersers!

What is your favourite time of day?
Just after my evening meal! When it’s getting dark, then ‘pop’…. the wine bottle is open!

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)?
I have so many!
But at the moment it has to be Creative Connections. I can easily spend the day chatting away to my crafting comrades, and checking out everyone’s new makes of the day!

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Haha!
Thanks Helen for this question…. But it has to be Jude Law! Phwooooor!

What is your all-time favourite movie?
Can I have 2?
I love Titanic, and The Holiday! I cannot remember how many times I have watched both of them! Maybe too many!

Thanks for chatting to us, Av. Go and have a nosy around Sprinkles Sparkles ~ beautiful stuff.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Crochet Cynth

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:05:00 +0000

Today's Misi Crafter is Cynthia from Crochet Cynth.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
I started messing about with a crochet hook and some yarn 3 years ago when a couple of friends announced that they were going to have a baby boy. I thought it'd be nice if I could make something for the baby. Hence, I did the most basic double crochet baby blanket ever. I did it, but I thought to myself I didn't have the talent for it, so I packed it up and focused on my knitting.

A few months ago, I noticed that my downstairs neighbour Penny has been crocheting all day long. I found it fascinating, and thought to myself 'Perhaps Penny can teach me how to crochet' So with her help, I blew off the dust on my crochet hook and gave it another go. This time, I got completely hooked on to it. It also helps when almost everyone around me is either having or expecting babies. I've got myself enough target audience to test my techniques and try out a few patterns here and there. Before I know, I got custom orders lined up to the point that my hook's smoking!

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
Negative aspects
There are actually a few. It's sooo addictive that once I've started, I'd forget all about eating, drinking or any other basic needs. I'd sit there for long hours to the point when my lower back is killing me. Then there's the darning the yarn. I trust that most fellow knitters and crocheters would agree that it is one of the most essential yet tedious and boring task to do to complete the project. When I use a very fine hook, I get cramps in my hand.

How do I get round them
My loving other half would make sure that I've got cups of tea regularly. I do try to stand and stretch every now and then. We have invested in an inversion table, so that would help stretch my back after long hours of sitting and crocheting. Darning the yarn, unless some of you are willing to let me outsource it, I'm stuck with it. However, I do find it more enjoyable when I do it along the way instead of leaving it all to do at the very end of my crochet project. Sometimes I vary the projects I do, so that I don't always get cramps by using finer hooks.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
I personally recommend watching some YouTube videos to start with. The following linke gives you a good collection of videos: the recordings, her instructions and explanations are clear, and most of her demonstration comes in slow motion as well.
http://www.youtube.com/user/tjw1963#play/user/E13D21C2E1F58CD7/14/11Wh7IOT9BI

Good starting point for beginners: 4mm - 4.5mmm crochet hook and double-knit yarn
Best to start with something none-fluffy, because even the more experienced crocheter would find it annoying or difficult to crochet fluffy yarns.
Choose a project you love, so you can enjoy it more while you learn how to crochet.

How did you find Misi?
Crafting friends have always recommended I set up a shop on Etsy. I have my concerns as American competitors can get a wider variety of yarns at a lower cost. Hence, I was looking for a UK-based Etsy-equivalent, and I found Misi on a directory of online craft shops.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
Marshmallow Deluxe line of baby blankets. I love making them as the yarn is deliciously soft and I can vary the colours to make each one of them unique.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
I have most certainly hearted quite a number of shops, but the one that I keep looking at frequently, is PebbleRox. The sparkle, the bright colours and the beautiful designs caught my attention from day one.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite way to travel?
Any form of transport that would just allow me to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.

What is your favourite chocolate?
Definitely dark chocolate, especially truffles and those with nuts.

What is your favourite drink?
A nice cup of Chinese tea. I can't choose between the following: Pu'er, Tie Guan Yin, Oolong and Bi Luo Chun

What is your favourite place that you have lived?
Among the places that I've lived, I like Bristol the best. It is a city that has so much to offer that I can always find something new to do and somewhere new to visit. I love its great balance of the buzz of city life and serene greenary. Ballets, plays and concerts at Hippodrome, Colston Hall and the Academy; jazz gigs at Old Duke and Folk House; restaurants at Welsh Back, Whiteladies Road and all lovely ones dotted around the city that serve a wide variety of cuisine; quiet stroll by the river or up Leigh Woods; shopping at Cabot Circus ... the list just goes on.

What is your all-time favourite movie?
I am a movie buff, so it's hard to choose from all the wonderful movies that I've seen. Top of my list would be:
- Shawshank Redemption
- Pursuit of Happyness
- Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
- Miracle at St. Anna

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Now this is an easy question to answer! Jason Statham for sure. Ok ... maybe Denzil Washington too? :D um... Adrian Lester isn't bad either ....

Thank you for that fabulously informative interview Cyn, I think I want to take up crotcheting after reading that. Visit Crochet Cynth and have a look at Cynthia's beautiful creations ~ she does custom orders too.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Ciren's Call

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:07:00 +0000

Today's fabulous Misi Crafter is Ciren's Call. Amy creates some really unique items with wire that I really wish I had the patience to learn to do.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I've been making jewellery for about six months now, and it all started one night after talking to a friend of mine who also has a dog from Many Tears (the rescue that I got Peaches from). We were trying to work out a way to raise funds for them, and jewellery making was suggested. The following morning, it still seemed like a good idea, so I started looking around the web, and mentioned it on a number of the CKCS forums I'm signed up to, and one of the ladies on there -rosiesmum - offered to send me some bits and pieces that she had lying around from when she's given it a try. When the two massive packages arrived a few days later, I was stunned, and I can't thank her enough for getting me started.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

Although not entirely part of the craft itself - now that I'm trying to sell the things I make, the biggest pain for me is the photography side of things - I'm always having to steal my hubby's phone to take the pictures, and I'm always having problems with getting the lighting right - although after the recent Misi meet in Bristol, I now have a couple of ideas on getting that sorted :D

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

If you're planning on selling what you make - get a Misi shop ASAP ;)

How did you find Misi?

Google - it really is your friend :D

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

Depends what day it is - I love all the things I make..

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

I really can't pick one - they're all great in their own right.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite colour?

Blue

What is your favourite food?

Chicken

What is your favourite season?

Spring - I love the feeling that the world is waking up :D

What is your favourite time of day?

Around 6pm - which just happens to be when hubby arrives home from work

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)?

Facebook - I probably spend waaaay too much time on there!

What is your favourite TV programme?

Open all hours - an oldie, but definately a goodie.

Thank you for answering all my nosy questions, Amy. Please visit Ciren's Call and take a peek at her lovely creations.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ My Funny Bunny

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:05:00 +0000

Happy Friday, hope you are having a good one.
Please welcome this week's Misi crafter... Monica from My Funny Bunny.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

Well, hard to say when I started exactly as it's been in my life since forever! I have been sewing by hand since I was little! My aunt was a high society seamstress in her time, my grandma & her mother were professional embroiderers and my other grandma worked as a seamstress in a factory and crochets! My mum dabbles in all crochet, sewing, clay, jewellery making, knitting, you name it!

My mum did a lot of knitting while she was pregnant with me and she used to rest her arms on her belly while knitting so apparently as a baby I had a habit of "knitting" with my fingers lol! Pity now I can't knit to save my life!

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
Negative... I don't like to think there are any, just the need for space to do what I do but then again I took over the not so spare room! Lol

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
What you don't know ask! Google helps too there are a lot of tutorials on the Internet including on YouTube.

How did you find Misi?
Recommended to me through another seller which in turn was contacted by Emma! Yay for Emma!

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
My favourite item is probably my giant toy felt die! It took ages to make but I loved the end result... Lots of people like it too but no one has bought it yet :(

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
Without money restraints I would buy Pebble Rox whole shop!!!! Hehehe but there are loads of other shops I love there too!

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite place to eat?
My mums house, where I can be found often! He he he

What is your favourite chocolate?
Snickers, lindt & any truffles!!!

What is your favourite time of day?
Depends but generally early afternoon.

What is your favourite place that you have lived?
Portugal.... Ohhh the heat, the sun!

What is your favourite colour?
Umm... Bright colours in general but right now I have a thing for orange!

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Ooooo shouldn't say this as I am a married woman!!!
Many! Hehehe but Brad Pitt, zack Effron or whatever his name is... Isn't that weird I wouldn't kick him out of bed yet I'm not sure if his name is right?! Hehehe

Don't forget to visit my blog! www.myfunnybunny.com

Thank you for talking to us Monica. Pop along to My Funny Bunny to see some lovely creations and I believe she is also running a great Mum & Baby Giveaway on her blog right now...

Helen
xxx

Happy 1st Birthday MISI!

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 07:18:00 +0000

Wow! One year today, MISI was born.

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear MISI,
Happy Birthday to you!

I am planning a little party between 8pm - 10pm in the Staffroom of the forum, if anyone would like to stop by for Cheese & Wine.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ The Crystal Lady

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Please welcome Anna ~ The Crystal Lady who makes beautiful creations with healing crystals too.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
Before I became pregnant with my youngest son I worked as a Pearl and Beadery Stringer. The work was fun, I loved opening all of the various boxes that arrived every morning from jewellers around the country. There was far too much pearl knotting for my liking though, very tough on the fingers. After I began my maternity leave I started looking around for something to do so that I could stay at home after he was born to look after him and his brother. I originally started making just Swarovski Crystal Jewellery as I love sparkly things. A few months later my mother asked me to make her a special necklace and chose various gemstones to put into it. Purely by accident I discovered that the stones were all supposed to have healing properties. This was fascinating and the necklace when it was finished was beautiful. Following this, I took a home study course in Crystal Healing and taught myself how to build websites. Now, here I am with two websites, a social network and various other online stores. Helping people with my jewellery is always the best bit though.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
I find it difficult to actually create my jewellery during the day while my son is still small but other than that even niggly things are a pleasure when it comes to my business.
What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
Try and stay organised. It involves lots of small bits and pieces and you will work faster if you know where they all are!

How did you find Misi?
I met my good friend Tasha (Madam Salami) on Twitter and she pointed me in the direction of Misi.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
I love my chunky carnelian Bracelet. I’m making a necklace in the same style in Tanzanite for my mum.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
That’s tough, they are all great. I have to say that I have spent a lot of time on the shop of Jezebel Charms. I love her jewellery.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite way to travel?
Walking on a beautiful spring day.

What is your favourite chocolate?
Cadburys Whole Nut (The bigger the better!)

What is your favourite colour?
Blood Red

What is your favourite place that you have lived?
I used to live in a big house by the sea. I still miss it.

What is your all-time favourite movie?
Still Crazy. The acting is fantastic and so is the music.

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Johnny Depp

How many DVDs do you have?
Far too many to count. lol

Thank you for sharing with us Anna. Stop by The Crystal Lady and I'm sure you'll find that Anna has the perfect item for you.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Peggy's Knits

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:30:00 +0000

Today's fabulous crafter is Diane from Peggy's knits. Love her little knitted bags...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I have been knitting since I was very young, my nanny taught me to knit, her name was Peggy and she influenced the name behind Peggy's Knits.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

The only negative aspects really is the time, I never have enough time as everything is one of a kind and hand knitted, but I try and be organised to get round this problem.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Just have fun, get some big needles and some good quality wool to start with, local knitting shops if you have one are great for advice and someone to chat to one on one.

How did you find Misi?

Through a knitting forum I go on.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

The pleated wrap, because it is so versatile and anyone could wear one.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

Sprinkles Sparkles, I have bought lots of her items and they are such good quality and packaged beautifully.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite place to eat?
Pizza Hut

What is your favourite chocolate?
Milk chocolate

What is your favourite time of day?
When the children go to bed and I can sit down in the peace with my knitting.

What is your favourite place that you have lived?
Norfolk where I am now

What is your all-time favourite movie?
The Chronicles of Riddick

What actor/actress would you NOT kick out of bed?
Vin Diesel

Thank you for chatting to us Diane. Take a look at Peggy's knits for some beautifully knitted items.

Helen
xxx

We have a winner!!

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

So this is how we did it:
I assigned everyone a number then printed out numbers on paper, popped them in a bowl and asked hubby to get numbers out the bowl.
First was number 12...

Congratulations to:

Designs by Isis

who has won the first prize in our Amazing Autumn Misi Blog Giveaway!!

And the next number he picked out was number 29:
Congratulations to:

East of the Sun Art

who has won the second prize (plus the added bonus of a bracelet by Designs by Isis)!

**Please could you both pm me through Misi with your postal address and I'll post out your fantastic goodies next week.

Thank you so much to all the generous Misi Crafters ~ I'm sure both winners will love their packages of goodies.
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Pauline's Passions

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:05:00 +0000

Please welcome Pauline from Pauline's Passions to the Misi Blog. Let's ask her a few questions and get to know her...

How did you get started and how long have you been doing it?

I've always been crafty as a child I loved nothing better than colouring in and doodling.
I learned to knit and loved knitting dolls clohes,toys,most of my childrens baby clothes and jumpers until they were old enough to think picture knits werent cool. Eventually athritis set in and I couldnt knit any more I watched t.v one day and saw alan and barry on create and craft demonstrating card making and I thought I could do that so I got some supplies and made cards for freinds and family but soon I couldn't stop I had boxes of them so I gave a lot to local charities to sell. People started asking me to make them for them and were offering to pay me.
When my brother got married he asked me to do some stationary for his wedding people commented on how nice they were and said I should start selling them so about 3years ago I started selling on Ebay and registered as a small business.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and how do you work round them?

I love it so much it's hard to be negative although I dont have time for housework and I have so many supplies it's taking over the house and I am forever buying things I dont really need I can't help it I just love to craft.

What tips would you give anyone starting your craft?

Always make sure you use good quality card etc and allocate yourself some space. dont be afraid to play around there's an artist in allof us get inspiration from things around you and most of all enjoy it.

How did you find Misi?

I found it on google I had been trying to set up a website but couldn't find one I could understand I'm not very good with computers and couldn't beleive how easy Misi was to use it was everything I had been looking for and much cheaper than ebay.

What is your favourite item in your shop?

I think my favourite item would have to be the grandfather clock I added recently I have just started working with templates and I think the 3d cards are so much more than just a card.I will be adding many more soon.

What is your favourite shop on Misi?

There are so many fabulous shops on misi it is almost impossible to choose but for me it would be Paulines candles her candles are lovely and smell absolutely georgous the chocolate ones are fabulous.and cirens call for the lovely jewellery I have some of her pieces on my wish list.

Random Facts about you...

Favourite colour---ice blue
Favourite food------anything hot and spicy but I'll eat anything.
Favourite season---winter when the snow is falling it's magical.
Favourite time of day------really early morning with a coffee in the peace and quiet before any one is up.
Favourite website that is not Misi-----www.create and craft.
Favourite Television programme----has to be big brother although I watch a lot of create and craft during the day.

Thank you Pauline. Take a wander over to Pauline's Passions to see some beautiful craftmanship.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Pennydog

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:25:00 +0000

This week's crafter is Kerry and her shop is Pennydog. Kerry works with resin and the effects that she creates in her work are just so unique, well worth a second look.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I've been making jewellery in general for over 10 years since I was 12, but specialising in resin for just over a year now. I've always wanted to do more than just string beads so I tried beadweaving (much more intricate- and too time consuming!), polymer and silver clay and finally settled on resin. I like making pendants from scratch!

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

Yes! I used to have Asthma and it seemed to go away during my teenage years. Within the last month the toxic styrene fumes have brought it back with added lung pain too. It can also make you dizzy and nauseous. I really should look after myself and wear a mask more often!

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Apart from read the mixing instructions thoroughly, ventilation is key- don't run the risk of giving yourself lung cancer. Also it will not come out of your clothes, carpets, etc so it can be quite expensive in that respect! It is very fun though.

How did you find Misi?

I joined very early on so I struggle to remember! I think I joined when other people in the crafting community were talking about it on the Etsy forums and also Crafteroo. Emma also came onto Crafteroo and introduced herself a short time later.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

I like the coasters I've started to make. They're not cheap, they use a lot of resin but I do like the end result and the fact that they can be matched to your own decor and tastes.

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

Soapy Chica's shop! We've worked together on soap and soap dish gift sets.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite colour? Orange

What is your favourite food? Curry- any kind but not too coconutty

What is your favourite season? Autumn

What is your favourite time of day? Early evening when I've come home from work and the real work begins!

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)? Crafteroo forums: www.crafteroo.co.uk

What is your favourite TV programme? I like comedies, so probably would say The Big Bang Theory at a push though there are so many other great shows (Mock the Week, Argumental, etc anything that makes me laugh)!

Thank you for chatting to us Kerry. You can see more of Kerry's gorgeous items at Pennydog on Misi.

Helen
xxx

Don't forget...

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:55:00 +0000

... to enter the Amazing Autumn Misi Blog Giveaway...

Some fantastic handcrafted prizes including; bags, charms, earrings, bracelets...

Enter here.

xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Carolyn's Creations

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:40:00 +0000

This week's Misi Crafter is Carolyn from Carolyn's Creations... or Sewembroidernut as she's known on the forums :-)

Carolyn is amazing with custom orders ~ she creates exactly what you have asked for and it turns out 100 times better than you could imagine yourself.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I started sewing at school when I was 11 years old and have been sewing ever since. I made all my children's clothing until they were teenagers and they decided that home sewing was no longer "cool". I might add that they are now asking me to sew for their children because everything is so expensive!! Precisely the reason why I did it in the first place! I knit, crochet and dabble in all things "crafty"! I own 7 sewing machines which is a bit over the top I have to admit, BUT I use them all!! I started with machine embroidery in 2003 when we were commuting between Holland and London, spending more time in UK than Holland. I could not manage without a sewing machine in London and had always wanted an embroidery machine so bought one that could be used for either normal sewing as well as machine embroidery. Machine embroidery is addictive, fun and very rewarding. Every project I undertake is so different and I love the challenges MISI members throw my way.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
The only negative thing about my craft is not being able to get to places to get supplies so I rely heavily upon the internet. I always research places we visit to make sure I get to see the fabric and craft shops in the area. My OH is very supportive and encourages me in my hobbies. I am not happy unless I am creating something, and that does lead to a surplus stock and the problem then is, how to move it on. No matter how big my stash is I NEVER have the right piece of fabric when I want it!! AND there are never enough hours in a day!

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Start with small projects and then slowly get into bigger things. I started my granddaughters off with sacking, doing cross stitch and then I made them into oven cloths for them. Machine embroidery is an expensive hobby as there are so many hidden extras that are required,so if you are contemplating buying an embroidery machine I would suggest you do what I did and get a combination machine and then you have not wasted your money if the embroidery side does not work out. The internet is an amazing place for resources and it pays to check out all the tips and free designs available. If at first you don't succeed - Don't give up - try again and again. You will win in the end.

How did you find MISI?

I saw a link on "The Sewing Forum" and decided that MISI looked very encouraging. I joined right at the beginning and it has been good for me.

What is your favourite item in your own MISI shop?

These little trinket bowls are lovely on dressing tables. I have one in my spare room which I fill with chocolates for guests. Whatever colour they are done in, they all look so different.

What is your favourite shop on MISI (besides your own)?

That is a really hard question but I have to say I love Jane's jewellery and the choker at suzidoo has also taken my eye . There are so many talented people using MISI, that it is difficult to choose, just ONE! Overspill for supplies too! There are a lot of shops I have not even had a chance to look at so there could well be others I have missed.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite colour? Bright Pink

What is your favourite food? Apples - fresh - straight from the tree!

What is your favourite season? Summer

What is your favourite time of day? Uninterrupted crafting time!!

What is your favourite website (besides MISI)? www.thesewingforum.co.uk , www.virginiaquilter.com

What is your favourite TV programme? Holby City & Casualty - sorry cannot choose between the two!

Thank you so much for chatting to us Carolyn. Take a look at Carolyn's Creations to see more of her talented designs...

The Amazing Autumn Misi Blog Giveaway!!

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 08:30:00 +0000

Yipeee! Autumn is here! Ok not so much, yipee, as ~ oh where did summer go?
But never mind, it gives me an excuse to name the giveaway ~ The Amazing Autumn Misi Blog Giveaway.
And why is it amazing?
Because some of the wonderful, generous crafters at Misi have donated some AMAZING prizes!!

In no particular order we have the following prizes donated by lovely Misi people...

*A beautiful bracelet from Designs by Isis

*An adorable angel charm from Jolicious

*Stunning earrings from MornieG Jewellery

*A pretty bookmark from Talking Beads

*A delicious candle from The Pink Fairy Cake

(uh oh, I'm going to run out of AMAZING adjectives)

*A fabulously fluffy bag from Peggy's Knits

*A lovely lavender heart from Neate Crafts

*A heartwarming scarf from Pickled Pumpkins

*A helpful first aid kit and scissor holder from Carolyn's Creations

* A gorgeous Hair accessory from Julies Booties

* A funky flower keyring from FairlyGirly

* A pair of useful magnetic pegs from Made by Val

* A beautiful Hair accessory from Fairyqueen Jewels

* A fun fridge magnet from Kelso Kreations

* A cute little bunny from My Funny Bunny

* An adorable little bag from Mad about Bags

* A branded, very rare Misi bag from MISI

* A lovely shopping bag from Cutie Pie

* A beautiful bracelet from Delicate Sparkles

* Plush Purple Wristwarmers from Knitwits

* Very special Birthday Gift tags from Stitching for You

* A gorgeous little parcel of goodies from Looby Crafts

All these amazing (do you think I've said Amazing enough times yet?) prizes will be packaged into one big parcel for one lucky winner.

I have also held back a few small items for a second prize.

*An lovely snowflake charm from Jolicious

*A helpful notebook from Carolyn's Creations

*A cute mobile charm from The Beading Lady

* Beautiful Hair Accessories from SprinklesSparkles

Right, all you have to do to enter our little giveaway is either:

1) Visit one of the stores above and find a favourite item from one of them ~ now copy the link and post it on this blog's comments.

OR

2) Go over to Misi and take a look at the Handmade Spots ~ this brings up a different page everytime you click it ~ take a look through a few pages and find something that really captures your interest or imagination ~ now copy the link and post it on this blog's comments.

Please add your username to your comment too. If you aren't already registered on Misi, please join ~ it's free and very easy. And Misi promises not to spam you!

If the winner happens to be one of the Amazing people who donated a prize then you will not receive your own prize back ~ it will be substituted with one of the second prize items.

Competition closes at 12 noon on Saturday the 26th September 2009, when I will throw everyone's names in a hat and get my hubby to pick the lucky winner.

Good luck
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Little Scruffs

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 07:15:00 +0000

This week's crafter is Jean from Little Scruffs ~ those gorgeous miniature bears that we all have on our wishlists...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I think it was about 2001 that I went on a weekend bearmaking course and haven't stopped since!!

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

I love everything about bearmaking but because it takes a long time to create a miniature bear- probably about 8 hours not including designing, website upkeep, queuing in post office etc etc , I will never be a millionaire!

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Bearmakers come and go but I think if you are going to get anywhere you really have to stick at it. Also loving bears is a great help!!!

How did you find Misi?

Misi found me and I am so glad, there are the nicest bunch of creators you could ever wish to meet on here!

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?

Alfie is my favourite bear still for sale in the shop at the moment. It still amazes me that people have such different favourites!

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

How could you ask that!!!??? There are far too many wonderful shops to have a favourite. Some marvellous card shops, knitting, jewelry, Carolyns sewembroidery..... oh gosh I could be on all night!

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite colour? It changes/ Perhaps purple

What is your favourite food? Anything that is edible - maybe Chinese

What is your favourite season? Spring

What is your favourite time of day? Anytime

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)? one that is called www.miniaturemohairbears.co.uk !

What is your favourite TV programme? Loose Women!

Where have you lived? On a little Island in the Orkneys with only 400 people on where both my daughters were born. Spain and England *I just added that!!!

Thank you for chatting to us Jean (and ad-libbing extra questions, lol). Go to Little Scruffs shop to see the most adorable miniature bears ever.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Talking Beads

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:05:00 +0000

This Friday's Fabulous crafter is Jean from Talking Beads...

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?
I booked to go to a craft retreat in Devon 8 years ago and I was taught how to make a single spiral bracelet, I then taught it to two of my two friends and that is how we started Three Jays Beading. Last year Three Jays ran out of steam and so Janice and I started Talking Beads. My husband came up with the name as ‘that it all you two ever talk about’ . Talking Beads is seed beading and large feature beads, pearls and crystals.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?
No negatives really, except the cost! We are devils at going out for a few beads to finish off an idea but before we know it the bill can be nearly £100 between two of us. The other side is the inspiration. Sometimes we sit in front of our respective beads boxes (yes, plural) and nothing works. I can make and unpick beads all day and not make anything worth keeping. Other days the beads almost jump together onto the mat and arrange themselves. So, the negatives are always turned into positives. Luckily we both have day jobs and husbands to pay the bills.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?
Go slowly and listen to advice. We rushed in and bought everything in StitchnCraft because we thought we needed it. For seed beading you really do only need either one of our kits (plug-shameless) which will include all of the materials you need, or go online for a free pattern and then just go and buy the ingredients list from the pattern. Join a beading group to learn new stitches and tricks of the trade. Buy as few books as you can in the first year. The best one we found was the Bead Workers Guild Bracelet Book. After a short while you will know if you like it or not. By the way, we always tell our pupils that the first inch is the worst, in any stitch. Seed beading is VERY fiddly and until you have the first inch or so it is hard to get the tension right as you have nothing to hold onto. Main advice is buy little and go to a group. The large crimping beads we also use, the advice is the same, go to a class and buy for a project. Otherwise it is costly and you buy a lot of beads you do not need.

How did you find Misi?
Emma sent me an email, I was so excited, I don’t know how she found me. I have picked up a lot of useful advice from girls on the forums and bought some lovely items.

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
This Red Coral... Janice, who is the other half of Talking Beads, made this and I think it is fabulous. If it is not sold by the beginning of Dec it may have to go off to Australia for my daughter’s mother-in-law. It is just her sort of thing. (if it does sell, we have another stunner for her, so feel free to buy it!)

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?
Can I have two, Hennie and Little Scruffs. I have one of Jean’s bears, his name is Tomas and I want to cry whenever I look at him, he is so sweet. He is really for my grandaughter Alice, but as she is too little now he is living with me. Hennie has made an elephant for Alice and written a story to go with it.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite colour? Red

What is your favourite food? Can it be cake, most sorts

What is your favourite season? Spring, we live in Wiltshire and so the parks and gardens around here and the hedgerows are wonderful in the spring.

What is your favourite time of day? Morning, early. People you meet before 9 am are so much happier than the ones you meet after 9am

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)? Google News ( I only have enough room in my head for headlines!) and Emma Ralph ( I love her beads so much I can not bear to make them into jewellery, they are just GORGEOUS)

What is your favourite TV programme? At the moment, Dragons Den

Thank you for chatting with us Jean. Please visit Talking Beads and see some more of her gorgeous creations.

Helen
xxx

Fabulous Friday... The Interview ~ Cutie Pie

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 08:05:00 +0000

Today's Misi Crafter is Michelle from Cutie Pie.

How did you get started in your particular craft and how long have you been doing it?

I've always loved making things. Every since I can remember, if I needed something, I would try to make it. I hoarded so much stuff when I was younger, fabric, ribbons, paper, stickers etc and I still do. My mum used to sew a lot and made most of my babies dresses herself, she encouraged me, showed me the basics and bought me a manual singer sewing machine for Christmas when I was about 8. I've still got it and am now teaching my daughter to use it. I decided to try and make some money after lots of my friends came to me if they needed things and kept telling me to sell what I make. So I took the plunge, found a name that suited and started to make.

Are there any negative aspects to doing your craft and if there are how do you work around them?

Not having a dining room anymore!!! I've taken over it. In the summer its ok as we don't use it that much, but in the winter we have friends over and light a fire in there and I have to pack everything up and hide it somewhere. For the past year, when I've been making things for stock I've had my youngest at home with me, so having to entertain him and try to make things has been awkward at times, but he starts school in September, so hopefully I'll have more time for me.

What tips would you give to anyone thinking of starting your craft?

Make sure its a passion of yours. Don't try and do something like this if you've not passion for it otherwise it will show in what you produce. If you love sewing & creating, then play, practice, make things for yourself and friends which will be seen by others and let it all grow from there. Don't ever worry about not being good enough, if people like what you do they will buy it. Sometimes we are too critical of our work, we forget that the buyer sees something they couldn't make themselves but really wants.

How did you find Misi?
A girl I used to go to school with is now a textiles teacher in a local school. I met her at a local craft fair and we got chatting. She had opened a shop, Handmade Perfection, and recommended Misi. So I looked MISI up and opened my shop in October I think??

What is your favourite item in your own Misi shop?
I think it would be the crochet jug cover. I made one for me, for my pimms, and thought it turned out rather well. So made some more, its lovely to see them taking shape as I don't use a pattern, they confuse me!!

What is your favourite shop on Misi (besides your own)?

Its hard to choose between Tinymoments - She makes fantastic, individual pieces or The pink fairy cake - She has in her shop, everything I wish I could do myself.

Random Facts about you:

What is your favourite colour? - Pink

What is your favourite food? - Roast Beef

What is your favourite season? - Winter, log fires and wooly jumpers

What is your favourite time of day? - night

What is your favourite website (besides Misi)? Girlguiding UK - I'm a Brown Owl too.

What is your favourite TV programme? - Harry Hill's TV burp.

Thank you for chatting to us Michelle. Go along to Michelle's Cutie Pie shop to see more of her beautiful creations...

Helen
xxx

Random Misi Spots

noreply@blogger.com (Helen @ The Beading Lady) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:07:00 +0000

There is a label at the top of the Misi page called "Handmade spots". Spots are a selection of items from across the store picked at random. There are 20 items per page and a refresh creates a completely new 20 items. I think most of us have spent a good few hours just cruising through the Spots, marking favourite items onto our wish lists. Well, that's what I did this morning. I'd like to share a few that caught my eye.

This funky ring from Jelly Belly Jewellery

A gorgeous t-shirt from The Pookey Boutique

Simple but stunning from Gem Jewelz

Handmade silk embroidered bag from Absolute Accessories

And finally Stress Relief Rag Dolls from Funny Banana

Hope you enjoyed my random finds...

Helen
xxx