Texas Artfire

Wednesday Chat reminder!

2010-10-31T21:19:00.000-07:00

730 pm 11/3/10

Hey I met up with some of our guild and or potential members of the guild this weekend! Thanks and it was great running into you all.

For those of you new to the guild, we have regular forums in AF but we can keep discussions and topics here too so that we can promote a new artist each week. Anyone interested in guest writing about a featured artist? Comment here or email me on AF.

Texasartfire Chat!! 11/3/10

2010-10-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Mossq

Yall go into the guild that night around 730pm and some of us ( hopefully all) will be there. we can get to know each other in real time even if not face to face.

can I get a few of you to help send the emails to the ppl on the blog? I dont know if they are even on artfire anymore... or active.

You can do cut and paste:

You are invited to the fall chat 11/3 at 730pm Texas time! we will be in the guild chat room at

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Guilds&op=guild_hall&guild_id=6

that is the main entrance to the guild. you will see a chat click and you are on it!

If you are no longer a member and wish to rejoin contact cctexan2 ( at the same page) for access.
===========================================

If everyone tells me which Alphabetical name you are doing ( ie A -C) we can get this knocked out fast. I need yalls help ! thanks!

whats your Favorite Craft show quote?

2010-10-25T21:48:00.000-07:00

Most of us have been there, set up early, after driving miles, usually cold, wrassling with the "E-Z" up, back breaking work, finding out you dont have enough change or bags or whatever.

Up comes that sweet lil ol lady and you think whoohoo a potential sale.

Out pops her statement to Mavis next to her " Oh I could make that"

uh huh. Only if you have all the tools and supplies mamam. and talent, technique.

So what do you do? I smile and say really? Thats fabulous! did you make that? ( pointing at anything she is wearing)

so what are some of your favorite trade show quotes/comebacks?

2010-10-22T21:57:00.001-07:00

YeeHaw!!

2010-10-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

We have had a change over the last year due to people changing venues, dropping out or keeling over I guess. Jinx and I are going to revive the blog and I hope to see some active participation... or else Im taking my marbles and going home. :)

I 'd like to get a discussion going on ways to do some shows in our prospective areas.... what area are you in?

what are your craft show fears or experiences for the newcomer?

we will keep it short and sweet for this first blog post. and for your entertainment, I have included the first Texasartfire Guild Collection.

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=5690

yall go on and comment on it hear? the more comments ratings nad views it gets, more likely it is to get FrontPage. Thanky

waiting

2010-03-23T11:55:00.001-07:00

Obviously no one has posted for months, myself and a few others have admin. privileges but it just seems like unless I post it just fizzles out. I'm still waiting for the new guild features at Artfire to be established to really have the access to the members like I envisioned last year. But with all the growth and other issues at AF guild features are on the back burner. I'm hoping that sometime this year more momentum will be returned to the guilds and by then perhaps some of our members will feel like participating more.

I admit I've lost a lot of my own momentum as Guild Master this last 6 months. Especially since communication is so difficult and since my local plans have lost ground due to lack of artisan participation. I had wanted to plan more small indoor craft fairs but the small amount of arts that i had committed to them have dwindled away for various personal and professional reasons.

I now hesitate to plan anything with these venues since I can't guarantee that more than myself and 1 or 2 other artisans will show up! And this is down from a dozen just 6 months ago. We should be moving in the opposite direction now downwards. But if other artists can't or won't commit to these free venues then I just can't continue to make promises I personally can't fulfill.

Texas Artfire had originally been planned as a networking idea rather than an online promoting and contest guild but without others willing to network as well then I can't promise any growth.

Networking success!

2009-11-20T16:16:00.001-08:00

I've been very busy the last couple of months and I'm trying to keep all the balls in the air so a few things, like this blog, have been slightly neglected. Oops.

Anyhow, I've gotten our Guild invited to 2 different Terrace locations for this spring starting in Feb; the Clear lake and Sugar Land locations. I've also made a commitment with the Tanglewood location near downtown Houston for Guild members to teach basic craft classes to the residents. The verbal agreement consists of the manager paying for individual supplies and a separate $75 fee for 1 instructor for a class size of 5-15 for 1+ hours. The manager stated that we could sell our products during the class if wished but she wanted the residents to have more interactive activities.

Cctexan3 and I have committed to Dec 10 from 2-4pm for a basic jewelry making class for a Christmas bracelet and earrings to start up this new program. I've got another artistic friend who has committed to drawing classes starting in Jan.

While it's not going to be a huge money maker it is a networking opportunity and the manager stated that when new projects work well at one location the other Terrace managers are quick to join in. She stated that she would love to have a few classes a month if possible down the road. So if this works an instructor could teach a class every week for $75 each if it works out it would be an additional $300 a month for someone. Not too bad and who knows who else we might meet! And if other Terraces joined it than multiple classes at multiple locations for several instructors could be a decent money maker in the future!

I'm slowing building Texas Artfire's local foundation and I hope to have people calling us offering work someday!

Are you ready?

2009-11-17T08:31:00.001-08:00

Black Friday is quickly approaching, less than 2 weeks away. Is your shop ready? Artfire pro shops have the ability to create coupon codes for their customers and if you haven't taken advantage of this great tool yet than now is the time! Nov 27~29 is the busiest shopping weekend of the year. It's called Black Friday because it's when retailers general start making a profit and their financial books switch from the Red of debt to the Black of profit. There's still time to get ready for Black Friday~don't miss this huge annual shopping opportunity!

Artfire forums

2009-11-09T13:37:00.000-08:00

The Artfire forums are now moderated so be careful what you write because your thread might get deleted or you might get banned. There's new rules in town and I'm not sure where everything is going yet. When I know more about the future of AF or TA I will let you know.

Here's my personal opinion on the matter at my blog, Jinx1764

Good luck Texas Artfire members!

Link and post your reputation with this badge

2009-10-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder if your potential customers have any idea what a great seller you are? Do they bother to check your feedback? And what if they don't know all your selling sites? Well, go to Repatoo and link your accounts/sites together and post a verified badge on all your selling sites. Right now they don't include Artfire in the verification but I suspect that will arrive in the new future. You can add links to your Repatoo profile to show all your sites when someone clicks your badge. And it's FREE!

A Punkin Card Company - Texas Artfire Promotion

2009-10-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

A Punkin Card Company is paper, stationery, and life.
Started in February 2007 by Amie Needham, a Houston area artist and designer, the collection emerged as simple card creations to enhance one's life. Soon the collection rocked into the modern realm of bold colors and fun, retro patterns. All the while taking Amie Needham's designs to the next level.
A Punkin Card Company creates stationery to change lives, evoke style and stir creativity.
*All of A Punkin Card Company's cards are handmade from recycled materials using a flat printing process.

Amie is originally from Louisiana, where she began as a historian with a focus English studies. After realizing her dream of design and art, she opened her own stationery company in February 2007 and hasn't looked back. Soon after life took another turn and moved her young company to Houston, Texas.

She is also the author of A Punkin Card Company Blog, a design and trend blog featuring artists from all over the Indie world.

www.apunkincardcompanyblog.com

Questions or comments: apunkincardcompany@gmail.com

A Blond and A Torch - Texas Artfire Promotion

2009-10-19T10:08:00.001-07:00

This week's featured studio is A Blond and A Torch. Jenn creates simply beautiful jewelry and loves custom orders.

A Blond And A Torch offers artisan crafted metal jewelry that is simple and organic, yet elegant. Each piece is designed and hand crafted by Jen Nixon in her home studio in Texas with an eye towards wearability. Working primarily in solid sterling silver , A Blond And A Torch creates earrings, bangle bracelets and necklaces in a variety of sizes and styles and welcomes custom orders.

http://ablondandatorch.blogspot.com

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jennixon/

www.trunkt.org/ablondandatorch

Jinx1764 rides the Artfire Crazy Train

2009-10-16T12:09:00.001-07:00

Jinx1764

Lucky me! It's my turn on the Artfire Crazy Train Promotion! While I haven't made any sales yet my views have jumped dramatically! Here's the link if you're interested in following the AF thread about my shop. Thanks to everyone, especially Texas Artfire members that have been participating in my ride!

Facebook and Artfire

2009-10-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

I finally took time to put the Artfire Kiosk on my Facebook page. It is really easy.

Sign into your Artfire shop and at the top of the page just right of the Artfire Logo is the Facebook application. Click on "Get This App!" and follow the instructions.

It is not hard, took me less than 5 minutes.

When people visit your Facebook page they can click on your picture and your Artfire Kiosk button shows up, then they can click and view the items in your shop.

I am very new to Facebook and any still trying to figure out all the things I can do with it.

If you know other ways to help promote our shops please jump in here and leave comments, suggestions or ideas.

3zArt Texas Artfire Promotion

2009-10-07T08:50:00.001-07:00

Here's our next featured Texas Artire Artisan 3 zArt!

I was fortunate enough to win a set of custom switch plates from her blog giveaway earlier this year and she does beautiful work! The picture left is an example of the style I choose and am using in the master bedroom. They are well made and high quality and I highly recommend her shop.

In her own words:

At 3zArt you can find home decor and gift items for all types! I love anything bright and bold, as you have probably noticed from my selection of switch plates. I currently make light plate covers, mouse pads, lamp shades, and coasters that I sell online.

-ARTFIRE VERIFIED SELLERS-

All fellow Artfire Verified Sellers can receive 10% off your total purchase (before shipping). Just put AF Verified Seller or AFVS in the "Notes to seller" box and I will send you an invoice through Google Checkout or Paypal (whichever you prefer) OR if you would rather go ahead and pay immediately I will refund the 10% to you.

I've had a pretty interesting life for my short time here! I've been making and selling my creations for as long as I can remember, from Neighborhood Newspapers to Faberge Eggs. Lived in many wonderful places (and many not so wonderful). I am slowly making my way through college to hopefully make something of myself :) I love making home decor items and experimenting to make new products. I have lots of crazy ideas..some work wonderfully and others end in disaster(and usually burnt hands). I also love playing with polymer clay but that is just a hobby and I would probably never sell any of my work. I have not had a traditional life at all...it is very hard for me to fill out any kind of form about myself

Texas Artfire Needs Regional Co-Guild Masters!

2009-10-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

To all Texas Artfire Members:
contact the Guild Master

Now that we've gotten our first TA craft show completed and I feel successfully completed at that; I wanted to contact you guys about the next idea I wanted to work towards.

Obviously, my local networking ideas can't easily work throughout Texas with one Guild Master hence I want to find TA members that are interested in being Regional Co Guild Masters. I would still be GM and would have all the members info and would provide the local TA members info as needed to each CGM. I would like to expand the ideas we've generated here and encourage other local TA members to brainstorm for ideas that would work in their areas. Some ideas that have already been generated here from last week.

- Start our own craft shows at local apt complexes where members live
- Jewelry repair/alteration at retirement/disabled/normal apt complexes
- Destash/trade parties at local TA members homes or neutral locations
- Continue to expand to Terrace locations (my original intent)
- Network with each other to find low cost established local craft shows
- Purchase needed supplies in large bulk orders and split the cost with local members to save

These are just a few ideas. As you can see a local CGM in each major city/region would be of a great assistance to all members. Since this is a volunteer position it is of course you would put as much or as little work into as you can and I certainly don't expect anyone to work excessively since we have all full time jobs/shops/etc. While I'm the GM I also don't expect anyone to "report" to me. I want to communicate with all CGM equally and share new, unique ideas that work in our areas so that we can all avoid reinventing the wheel. Since each region has different artists and needs each CGM would run their area as they saw fit to gain the maximum results.

So far I have it broken down into regions being:

Southeast - greater Houston area - myself as GM
North - greater Dallas/Ft Worth area - open
Central - greater San Antonio/Austin area - open
South - greater Corpus Christi and possibly deep south area - open
West - greater El Paso area - open
Panhandle - greater Amarillo/Lubbock area - open

These are just the basic regional suggestions, obvious we may need a CGM in a specific city/town as the guild grows and/or if a member volunteers to start a local chapter in their area which is more isolated from larger regions.

I would like this to be flexible so that we can adjust when and if the needs arises in the future. I hope to expand my original idea to other members' regions to assist in increasing their success through local networking.

If you are interested in volunteering as a CGM of your region/city please email as soon as possible so that I may send you the list of TA members in your region and we can begin communicating our ideas.

Thank you and I hope to see Texas Artfire become a great success in the future through the efforts of all of our members!

Heather Mewis
GM

Successful First Time Texas Artfire Craft Fair!

2009-09-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Left to Right to bottom♦ Jinx1764's finished table with my hovering husband/ Tricia - Jewels on a Whim.artfire - (Craft show virgin! and enthusiastic learner)/Amber Owens - Amber Dawn Accessories.etsy (great Mac slideshow display, great support, and one of my newest friends- we first met at the First Saturday Market Fair)

<--Heather Jinx1764.artfire busy, busy! Feathered Friends Mementos Texas Artfire Guild Master

Michelle Cutesy Cloths.etsy

Setting up her table with Ruth and her daughter behind

her.

Left to Right♦ Sharon and Greg - Tres Chic.artfire (jewelry and soap! and a supportive husband wow! This is Sharon's full time job so it's a serious commitment for her.)
Cindy(R) - cctexan3.artfire( Texan loud and Texan proud! Endless energy and enthusiasm! ;o) with Amber Owens who almost ducked out of the photo.

Left to right to bottom ♦ Yolanda - Just 4 you Bouquets (Just started her business a month ago, no fear!)/ Ruth - Ruthbl.artfire (mom and daughter jeweler team, go family!)/ Michelle - Cutesy cloths.etsy (cutest, well made baby and toddler items ever!)

We had our first such fair today at a Houston area 55+ apartment complex which has many residents that have difficulty shopping normally and are still intimidated by internet buying. We brought our products to these residents who were not only personally grateful for the opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping in a comfortable, relaxed setting but we all immensely enjoyed the intimate interaction. It's not often that a situation occurs that is a win/win for all involved.

We had total sales of $770 in approx 6 hours - remember this venue was not open to the public and since it was an experiment for the complex; the residents and their off location family members had only been informed about it the day before. Had we been able to coordinate the on site advertising better with the management (a primary issue I plan to address) I believe we would have had an even greater attendance. In the future in may also be partially open to the public according to the management.

The management was very happy with the opportunity to bring this shopping experience to their residents and we have been invited back. All the sellers that attended were very happy with the experience and have stated that they would like to attend another in the future. I plan on continuing to plan this event at this location and expanding this venue to other similar sites in the Houston area all for NO BOOTH FEES. This is a long term plan for me and I hope that it may become a steady, predictable, very successful venture for any local Houston artisan that is interested.

2 Belles and a Bead Texas Artfire Promotion

2009-09-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry folks! I meant to start this promotion last Monday but some personal issues tripped me up and it had to be delayed. But here we are! The first Texas Artfire shop to be promoted is:

2 belles and a bead
Pictured is a beautiful lariat necklace listed in their shop along with many other gorgeous items.
This very lovely shop is run by a mother and daughter team, Karen and Crystal.

In their own words: We started about five years ago (wow, has it really been that long?!), and our passion for the art gets deeper every day. We especially love working with gemstones and metals.

We have a wide variety of items and also do custom jewelry orders of just about any kind. So if you're looking for something specific, ask away and we can probably create it for you. :o)

If you're looking for jewelry supplies, check out our other shop: http://BellesBeadsnThings.artfire.com

Sept 3, 2009

2009-09-03T13:06:00.000-07:00

Welcome newest Texas Artfire members!
Contact Guild Master

Upcoming TA Craft Fair Sept 26

First off I'd like to give a shout out to CC texan 3 for all of her enthusiasm and help organizing TA's first Houston based craft fair at the Terrace at Clear Lake on Sept 26. See details in last month's post. Listed below are the sellers that have committed to attend this year. Contact me asap if your plans have changed!

cctexan - jewelry
Ruthbl - jewelry and beads
Treschic - jewelry
Sherri crochets - crochet toys/baby items
Barb Wolf - beads/jewelry
Amber Owens - jewelry
Ashley Isra - lady bands
Illume Studio jewelry
Feathered Friends Mementos
cushy clothes etsy

As you can see some are not TA members; it's my intention to give TA members preference to our future fairs but to offer the opportunity to all local Texas handmade artisans. All networking can be beneficial and I seriously encourage TA members outside of the Houston are to organize similar small shows in your area.

I know that I'm not a constant presence on the forums nor do I wish to be but a little promotion and interaction can go a long way; especially in the real world as opposed to the internet. I know I personally always sell far more in a day in person than in a year online.

New Rule Feedback

The new three month verified membership prior to TA membership rule seems to be working well. We've had several new members and all except one have been acceptable to the new rule. I've found that several members have opted to downgrade to basic membership which automatically excludes them from the guild; I wish them well.

Promotion Ring

I would like to start a TA internet promotion ring in which we start alphabetically and each shop gets one week of promotion from the other members. Each member promotes as much or as little as you can each week on whatever internet sites/blogs/chats you participate in regularly. I'm not going to be policing anyone, but I will be checking the sites I usually go on and I'm sure I'll see who's helping and who isn't. Every member that has given me their blog link I've become a follower and I check in on my reading list at least every other day.

The first shop on the list will be 2 belles and a bead and the start date will be Sept 14 just to give everyone time to read this and get prepared. Please leave any comments or ideas.

Articles/Posts?

Got any? Want to post them here? I'll add you to the contributor list; just let me know.

2009-08-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Welcome newest Texas Artfire members!
Contact the Guild Master

Any member that would like to be a contributing member of this blog please email me with the email account you would like to use and I will add you to this account. Feel free to add any information regarding Texas, Artfire, our guild, your shop, sales, articles, advice, etc. Since this is a business/networking blog I ask that you refrain from adding any personal information or concerns on this blog.

If you haven't received a NING invitation to our TA Ning site please contact me and I'll forward an invite.

Subearthen Cottage is featured here.

Help a fellow Texas Artisan spread the word about a fraudulent blog. Read about it on CCTexan3's blog.

Congratulations to James and Birdy of Birdy's Knits for helping out fellow artisan Larry in his time of need. The auction was a great success and brought in thousands of dollars in financial add for his medical condition.

New Guild Membership Rule

We've had several members request membership then downgrade their account or leave Artfire entirely after a month or two. I requested that any shop leaving the guild email so that I can more easily keep our membership roster up to date. However, this has not been happening. I don't know why some shops join and then quit in such a short amount of time but in order to encourage a more serious approach to membership and participation I've decided to add a rule.

1. Must be located in Texas
2. Must be a verified Artfire member for at least 3 months prior to guild membership

I'm hoping that this will filter some of the less serious minded potential members. I don't require a large amount of guild participation but I would like members to remain and actively promote themselves and each other through networking.

Terrace at Clear Lake in Houston Craft Show
Sept 26, 2009 (sat)
9am - 3pm or later

I've arranged for several Texas Artfire members and other local Texas artisans to sell their products at a small indoor venue in the Houston area. The Terrace is a 55+ apartment complex with several hundred residents. Kelly is the social activities coordinator at this site and she and I have been organizing this small show for the benefit of their residents and local Texas artisans. There is NO BOOTH FEE to participate, it is indoors, tables and chairs will be provided. All you need to do is bring your items for sale and your personal support supplies. Listed below are the artisans currently attending. If you would like to be added or removed from the list please email me.

(cctexan) (bonnylampwork) (ruthbl) (treschic) (sherricrochet) (beads and things) (amberowens) (poetry in pieces) (ladybands) (Illume Studio) (FFM)

We have a lot of jewelry artisans so I'm especially interested in artisans of other products but more jewelry would be welcome as well.

Promotions and Sales

I have created a section to the upper left of this blog to list any current sales/promotions of any guild shop. Please contact me if you would like your shop added and the time frame of the promotion.

Please encourage other members and non-members to follow our blog. This will assist in spreading the word about the great products offered by Texas artisans.

Nancy Medina of Texas Artfire recently completed a new piece of artwork. Her painting of a Grea Blue Heron is wonderfully executed and very beautiful. You can see it at her blog.

For all you jewelry makers out there: Artbeads.com is having their Dollar Days sale until Aug 6, I think. Check out some great deals with free U.S. shipping.

The Artfire Crazy Train promoting tool is still active. You can visit my blog for the current shop riding the promotion train. You can search the chatterbox forums for more info regarding how to follow or join the crazy train.

I know sales have been slow overall but I believe that things will pick up after school starts. Just hang in there and keep promoting yourself and each other.

48 for Larry

2009-07-03T20:52:00.001-07:00

Larry Hamm over at Chel sea Lynn Designs on Artfire is a friend of many in the world of handmade, he is also the voice of The Crazy Train on Blockhead Radio. Larry has a fantastic wife Janet, and an 8 year old son Jacob who live with him in Lansing, NC deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Larry is a friend to everyone and just an all around swell guy. He is most definitely the “shirt off your back” kind of friend. Right now, all of Larry’s friends and Blockhead radio are teaming up to help him out in a tough time.

Larry is a disabled diabetic who currently has lost his health insurance. His medication alone monthly is over $2,000. Larry is not receiving disability, he has not been approved yet. His wife is the only source of income and she doesn’t make enough to cover his medications. Larry’s doctors have given him an outlook of only 18 months to live if he doesn’t receive a $17,000 gastric bypass surgery as soon as possible. Larry and his family need all the help from their family and friends they can get! Jacob and Janet need Larry to hang around here with them as long as he possibly can! All of his friends surely want Larry to stick around too!

All of us at Blockhead Radio are gearing up for the biggest Radiothon you’ll ever be a part of! July 24th at 6pm until July 26th at 6pm, Blockhead Rod will be live on the radio for 48 hours straight raising money for our friend Larry. A silent auction of donated handmade goods will also be going up on the home page of Blockhead Radio with 100% of the proceeds going to Larry.

If you would like to be a part of this wonderful event, please email DeDe Sorensen at: 48forlarry@blockheadradio.com Please donate any handmade items you can for the silent auction have your emails in with your donations by July 22nd. If you would like to donate cash for Larry’s prescriptions and surgery please visit Blockhead Radio July 24th through July 26th. There will be plenty of ways to get your donations in.

Keep listening to Blockhead Radio for fantastic indie music, and how you can help Larry Hamm of Chelsea Lynn Designs.

Help spread the work.....link this post or feel free to copy and paste it on your blog...thanks.

Originally Posted by Rockerchic at 8:45 PM on blockheadradio.blogspot.com

June Newsletter

2009-06-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

Texas Artfire Newsletter 6/09

Heather Mewis - ffmementos@yahoo.com

http://jinx1764.blogspot.com

To all our new members

Remember! If we all contribute are time and information to Texas Artfire then we can all benefit! Stop by the Texas Artfire Guild Forums and leave a comment or start a discussion.

Chat scheduled for June 26 – 9pm

I’ve finally gotten June’s Newsletter finished, thanks to everyone for being so patient during my recovery. For those of you who don’t already know I required major abdominal surgery May 28 and then experienced some complications which have caused me to spend a large part of my time sleeping and regaining my strength. I’m still not 100% but I’m feeling much better this week.

I want to request to all members to please email me with any local promotions, ideas, personal achievements, etc. I’ve had very little response from our members and while I don’t try to run this guild in a strict, rule based manner; I would love to have more participation from our members. If you have ideas for contests please feel free to initiate them without my approval but I would love to know about them.

If you would like to have your email added to the blog list for independent contribution please tell me and I will add it. To those members whose email is already listed – please feel free to add information about Texas Artisans, your own shop, etc and link so we can gain more followers. You may also add articles, advice, craft ideas, etc. I would love our blog to more interactive with all members.

My primary goal for Texas Artfire is local networking of our various members to increase the promotion of all Texas Artisans. No matter how much assistance an artisan is given ultimately you have to promote yourself and your studio to realize the increased business and long term success. I want to be a hub to facilitate that goal for all Texas Artisans.

Promotion is very time consuming for each of us and if all of us contribute our time and energy then we can all find success!

I will be including an updated list of our current members, names, locations and type of shop in each newsletter. If you would like more information to your studio name (such as email, blog) please contact me and I will add it. If you would prefer not to include additional info then I will keep your studio name as it is currently. For those shops with limited information – this is because I have not received your questionnaire.

If you are participating in an upcoming fair please send me the details and I’ll included it in the next newsletter.

Tagging your items: please add - texasartfire - all one word as a tag so that all members can easily find and promote all Texas Artfire items and members. If the words are separate then it will bring up any shop that mentions Texas in any part of their listing.

Updates

We currently have 65 members, including my two shops. A few more have downgraded their Artfire membership or closed their shop, thereby losing guild member status. Please email me if you decide to downgrade or close your shop. It would save me a lot of time when updating the shop list. Thanks! Below is an alphabetical list of the shop names, owner names, type of shop and their Texas location. If you have not turned in your guild questionnaire then I will not update further information.

Stop by the guild forums to participate in the discussions and contribute any ideas you have.

I will be adding each month’s newsletter to the Texas Artfire Blog – http://txartfire.blogspot.com and just emailing out the notification that it’s posted. I you will like to be added to the blog team to contribute anything please contact me and I will add your email.

Promotions

I would like member’s options on running a Texas Artfire promotion similar to the Crazy Train Promotion that Picard started. Each week we would all use our social networks to promote a specific Texas Artfire shop; I suggest starting alphabetically.

Byhand.me by Birdy’s Knits– Taste of Texas. Be sure to stop by their blog or shop and let them know how much their efforts are appreciated.

Artisan Achievements

James of Birdy’s Knits has added a great Texas Artfire Treasury to our blog, http://txartfire.blogspot.com, stop by and check it out! You should also check out Blockhead Radio, James is very active with that forum with lots of great interviews and information.

My shop, http://jinx1764.artfire.com (Feathered Friends Mementos) was featured this month by Teresa Mallen’s Newsletter. I’m also doing my first blog giveaway from 6/15-7/15 for a custom bracelet. Stop by and enter!

Houston Area Fairs

Katy Farmer’s Market: www.FarmersMarketAtLaCenterra.com, contact Ro for application

Yale Street Market: www.FirstSaturdayArtMarket.com, contact Mitch, in the Houston Heights, Myself and my friend Diana (abstract oil painter) will be here May 2, 11-6pm

Greatwood Gifts Galore: giftsgaloreatgreatwood@yahoo.com, contact Christina Moreland with Greatwood Elementary in Sugarland Oct 2009

International Gem and Jewelry Show: http://www.intergem.net/ , in the Reliant Center in Houston

Member List

1) 2bellesandabead: Crystal and Karen Harris – Corpus Christi [handcrafted jewelry]

2) 3zart: Alexandria “AJ” McCormick (guild master of Artfire Decor) - Amarillo [Fun and funky décor items]

3) ABlondandatorch: Jen Nixon - China [Simple sterling silver and gold filled jewelry]

4) Andreadesigns: Andrea Wagner - Austin [Crocheted scarves and items]

5) Aprisha: Lewisville

6) Apunkincardcompany: Amie Needham - Montgomery [stationary and cards]

7) Bagsandbeads4u2: Lisa Kripps - Cleburne [Classic and quirky accessories]

8) Beadsandthings: Barb Wolf – San Antonio [lampwork, jewelry and supplies]

9) BigPikaChica: Heather Larsen - Bedford [General crafter]

10) Birdysknits: Birdy and James Coffman - San Antonio [Knitted items] http://www.birdysknits.com/blog

11) BlueBonnetDesigns: Yvonne Cornelius - Killeen [Beadweaving and bead embroidery]

12) BohemianRose: Jenn Carpenter - Mansfield [Soaps, lip balms and sugar scrubs]

13) BonnyCornerLampworkBeads: Bonny Corner - Dickenson [lampwork beads]

14) BoutiqueLozano: Lynn Lozano - Plano [ handmade kids crochet and knits]

15) BrokenHallelujah: Lubbock

16) CandleBoulevard: Houston [Fun candles]

17) Cctexan3: - Houston [Upscale jewelry]

18) Cedarjunction: Teresa Yates - Kingsville [Collage and mixed media vintage]

19) Claytiger: Glenn Ray Hall - Westlaco [Funky items from polyclay, copper and brass]

20) Coquettebath: Ft Worth

21) CountryLady: Betty Lee - Schertz

22) CreatedWithFire: Katy

23) Chucklebunnieuk: Elizabeth Mills - Honey Grove [all styles handcrafted artisan jewelry]

24) Dulciquilt: Lubbock

25) ElephantDreams: Houston

26) ElisaAlvarado: Elisa Alvarado - Round Rock [Contemporary bright figurative art]

27) FFMsupplies: Heather Mewis – Guild master – Missouri City [Vintage and destash]

28) FireFossil: Daniel Bresien - Bryan [lapidary – handcut designer cabochons]

29) GemsbyJerri: Jerri Chatham - Comfort [Jewelry for everyday wear]

30) Goodscentsbathandbody: Ballinger

31) HandmadeWithLove: Susan Griggs Peterman - Houston [Quilting]

32) Hillcountrycollection: Austin

33) Hosslassart: Connie Owens - Burleson [Watercolor artist of nature themes]

34) Illumestudio: Sylvia McDougald Holmes - Warren [Fused glass jewelry]

35) JanuaryGirlDesigns: Copperas Cove

36) Jellybeanz: Erica Christensen - Midland [Boutique shop for children, bath and paper goods]

37) Jinx1764 (Feathered Friends Mementos): Heather Mewis – Guild master Missouri City [Feather jewelry and items inspired by birds and nature]

38) KatherineKouture: Dallas

39) Ladybands: Ashyley Isra - Houston [woven headbands]

40) LBCDesigns: Lorraine King, Barbara Terry, Cynthia Jones - Houston [Eclectic jewelry and accessories]

41) Lifeisbutacharm: Yvonne Cornleius - Killeen [Mixed media, tile and glass pendants]

42) MagicWeaver: Mesquite

43) MeBirdDesigns: Robin Berri - Longview [Art jewelry using vintage and found items]

44) NancyMedinaArt: Nancy Medina - Flower Mound [Oil and watercolor art of nature and pets]

45) Newusesforoldclothes: Columbus

46) Omaleinert: Jutta Cuttingham - Garland

47) Pathea: Pattie Panuccio - Bronte [Wire jewelry with natural stones and vintage]

48) Pollywawgs: Jenny Lynch - Amarillo [Sew anything: dolls, blankets and embroiders]

49) Reansforte: Lorean Williams - Grapeland [sewing and mineral bath salt]

50) RockyCreekGems: Linda Mcmurry - Elgin [Gemstone jewelry, knitting and quilting]

51) Ruthbl: Ruth Blake La Porte [Handmade glass beads, resin and metal jewelry]

52) SacredTreasures: Houston

53) Shadesofsplendor: Round Rock

54) Sherricrochets: League City

55) SKorber: San Antonio

56) Snowbabyscreations: Petra Harding – Lubbock [Knit and crochet for baby and children, home décor]

57) Studio219: Cara Ellison - Spring

58) StudioDesigns: Celinda Barrett - Amarillo [Affordable handmade jewelry]

59) SylettSoap: Sylett Strickland - Dallas [Soap products]

60) SubearthenCottage: Haltom City

61) SweetWolf: Austin

62) TheJeweledFlamingo: Bonnie Saxton - Buda [Vintage and custom costume jewelry]

63) TheSacredOak: Willow Forrestall - Diboll [Historical costuming, pagan, occult, spiritual curios shop]

64) Treschicdesigns: Sharon Hightower - Katy [OOAK and limited edition jewelry]

65) Upstairs-Studio: Carolyn Huie – Campbell [Eclectic artist and jewelry maker]

Newsletter will be up soon

2009-06-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

I've been recovering from major surgery the last few weeks and haven't been able to update the Newsletter as quickly as usual. I'm hoping to get that updated in the next week or so since we have several new members. Thanks!

Texas Artfire May 09 Newsletter

2009-05-01T15:57:00.000-07:00

Texas Artfire Newsletter 5/09

Heather Mewis - ffmementos@yahoo.com

http://jinx1764.blogspot.com

To all our new members

Remember! If we all contribute our time and information to Texas Artfire then we can all benefit!

I will do my best to publish the monthly newsletter during the first week of every month so please get any new information that you would like published to me asap or it’ll have to wait to the next month’s issue.

Please feel free to contact me with any suggestions/articles you have and I will publish them in the monthly newsletter. My primary goal for Texas Artfire is local networking of our various members to increase the promotion of all Texas Artisans. No matter how much assistance an artisan is given ultimately you have to promote yourself and your studio to realize the increased business and long term success. I want to be a hub to facilitate that goal for all Texas Artisans.

If you have contests, promotions, etc that you would like to initiate and manage in the name of Texas Artfire - please do so! Promotion is very time consuming for each of us and if all of us contribute our time and energy then we can all find success!

I will be including an updated list of our current members, names, locations and type of shop in each newsletter. If your shop has limited information listed it is because I have yet to receive your completed questionnaire. If you would like more information to your studio name (such as email, blog) please contact me and I will add it. If you would prefer not to include additional info then I will keep your studio name as it is currently.

Also, if you have any articles, advice, fair information, etc to share please email it to me and I will include it in future newsletters. I would like to have a newsletter emailed out once a month but we’ll see how much information is required to be shared and I will adjust it according as the need arises. Also, if you are featured on other blogs, websites, or have articles published on Artfire or other sites please send the link to me and will send it out in a group email to all members.

If you are participating in an upcoming fair please send me the details and I’ll included it in the next newsletter.

I need all members’ participation in order to expand this newsletter. Currently only members in the immediate area of Houston and San Antonio have contributed promotional information to me. If you have any information that would assist other members in your local area please email me the information to be included here.

Updates

We currently have 60 members, including my two shops. A few have downgraded their Artfire membership thereby losing guild member status. Below is an alphabetical list of the shop names, owner names, type of shop and their Texas location. If you have not turned in your guild questionnaire then I will not update further information.

Stop by the guild forums to participate in the discussions and contribute any ideas you have.

I’m currently dealing with some medical issues which should, hopefully, be resolved over the next couple of months; so any additional participation by guild members will be most appreciated!

Please email me with any current/future promotions that you have accomplished or that you are running in your shop and I will post it in the next newsletter.

Promotions

I would like member’s opinion on running a Texas Artfire promotion similar to the Crazy Train Promotion that Picard started. Each week we would all use our social networks to promote a specific Texas Artfire shop; I suggest starting alphabetically.

The Easter Egg Hunt by Moonstone was a great success and the first place winner is currently deciding which shops to spend her $50!

James and Birdy of Birdy’s knits have set up Texas Artfire Features at you tube http://www.youtube.com/closetcreature, their blog http://www.birdysknits.com/blog/, and Byhand.me – Taste of Texas. Be sure to stop by their blog or shop and let them know how much their efforts are appreciated.

Artfire Stimulus Promotion - if you would like to participate add afsp or asp to your tags and announce the promotion on your personal blogs/sites and to your friends and family. This promotion is being done by numerous shops to help stimulate the economy. These shops are reducing their prices on certain items to encourage sales and help shoppers in need.

Artisan Achievements

James of Birdy’s Knits has added a great Texas Artfire Treasury to our blog, check it out!

My shop, http://jinx1764.artfire.com (Feathered Friends Mementos) was featured this month on About.com in the DIY Fashion section! Visit my blog listed in the heading for the link.

I’ve also been hired by Artfire to be a freelance columnist in the Art Daily: Just for Fun dept and will be required to submit two articles a week and one large feature a month. Please stop by and read all the great articles at Art Daily!

Birdy of Birdy’s Knits has been featured in the spring issue of Knitty . Her pattern is the Flit 'n Float pattern. Congratulations Birdy! Like they say: Any PR is good PR! Stop by and check out her feature. Her scarf is beautiful; I especially love the ruffled ends. Too bad I suck at knitting. I used to crochet but got burned out for now

Houston Area Fairs

Katy Farmer’s Market: www.FarmersMarketAtLaCenterra.com, contact Ro for application

Yale Street Market: www.FirstSaturdayArtMarket.com, contact Mitch, in the Houston Heights, Myself and my friend Diana (abstract oil painter) will be there May 2, 11-6pm

Greatwood Gifts Galore: giftsgaloreatgreatwood@yahoo.com, contact Christina Moreland with Greatwood Elementary in Sugarland Oct 2009

International Gem and Jewelry Show: http://www.intergem.net/ , in the Reliant Center in Houston

Sienna Plantation Garage Sale and Craft Fair, Oct 09

Sienna Plantation Gingerbread Market - Dec 09

Member List

1) 3zart: Alexandria “AJ” McCormick (guild master of Artfire Decor) - Amarillo [Fun and funky décor items]

2) ABlondandatorch: Jen Nixon - China [Simple sterling silver and gold filled jewelry]

3) Andreadesigns: Andrea Wagner - Austin [Crocheted scarves and items]

4) Aprisha: Lewisville

5) Apunkincardcompany: Amie Needham - Montgomery [stationary and cards]

6) Bagsandbeads4u2: Lisa Kripps - Cleburne [Classic and quirky accessories]

7) Beachcomberscove: Norma Gafford - Corpus Christi [Tropical jewelry and art]

8) BigPikaChica: Heather Larsen - Bedford [General crafter]

9) Birdysknits: Birdy and James Coffman - San Antonio [Knitted items] http://www.birdysknits.com/blog

10) BlueBonnetJewelryDesigns: Yvonne Cornelius - Killeen [Beadweaving and bead embroidery]

11) BohemianRose: Jenn Carpenter - Mansfield [Soaps, lip balms and sugar scrubs]

12) BonnyCornerLampworkBeads: Bonny Corner - Dickenson [lampwork beads]

13) BoutiqueLozano: Lynn Lozano - Plano [ handmade kids crochet and knits]

14) BrokenHallelujah: Lubbock

15) CandleBoulevard: Houston [Fun candles]

16) Cctexan3: - Houston [Upscale jewelry]

17) Cedarjunction: Teresa Yates - Kingsville [Collage and mixed media vintage]

18) Claytiger: Glenn Ray Hall - Westlaco [Funky items from polyclay, copper and brass]

19) CountryLady: Betty Lee - Schertz

20) CreatedWithFire: Katy

21) Chucklebunnieuk: Elizabeth Mills - Honey Grove [all styles handcrafted artisan jewelry]

22) Dulciquilt: Lubbock

23) ElephantDreams: Houston

24) ElisaAlvarado: Elisa Alvarado - Round Rock [Contemporary bright figurative art]

25) FFMsupplies: Heather Mewis – Guild master – Missouri City [Vintage and destash]

26) FireFossil: Daniel Bresien - Bryan [lapidary – handcut designer cabochons]

27) GemsbyJerri: Jerri Chatham - Comfort [Jewelry for everyday wear]

28) GypsyGoods: Leander

29) HandmadeWithLove: Susan Griggs Peterman - Houston [Quilting]

30) Hosslassart: Connie Owens - Burleson [Watercolor artist of nature themes]

31) Illumestudio: Sylvia McDougald Holmes - Warren [Fused glass jewelry]

32) JanuaryGirlDesigns: Copperas Cove

33) Jellybeanz: Erica Christensen - Midland [Boutique shop for children, bath and paper goods]

34) Jinx1764 (Feathered Friends Mementos): Heather Mewis – Guild master Missouri City [Feather jewelry and items inspired by birds and nature]

35) KatherineKouture: Dallas

36) Kathiskreations: Katherine Price - Frisco [Quilting, sewing and knitting]

37) LBCDesigns: Lorraine King, Barbara Terry, Cynthia Jones - Houston [Eclectic jewelry and accessories]

38) Lifeisbutacharm: Yvonne Cornleius - Killeen [Mixed media, tile and glass pendants]

39) MagicWeaver: Mesquite

40) MeBirdDesigns: Robin Berri - Longview [Art jewelry using vintage and found items]

41) NancyMedinaArt: Nancy Medina - Flower Mound [Oil and watercolor art of nature and pets]

42) Newusesforoldclothes: Columbus

43) Omaleinert: Jutta Cuttingham - Garland

44) OntheLlanoStudio: Hilton Mclaurin - Lubbock [Pewter pendant foundary]

45) Pathea: Pattie Panuccio - Bronte [Wire jewelry with natural stones and vintage]

46) Pollywawgs: Jenny Lynch - Amarillo [Sew anything: dolls, blankets and embroiders]

47) RockyCreekGems: Linda Mcmurry - Elgin [Gemstone jewelry, knitting and quilting]

48) Ruthbl: Ruth Blake La Porte [Handmade glass beads, resin and metal jewelry]

49) SacredTreasures: Houston

50) Snowbabyscreations: Petra Harding – Lubbock [Knit and crochet for baby and children, home décor]

51) Studio219: Cara Ellison - Spring

52) StudioDesigns: Celinda Barrett - Amarillo [Affordable handmade jewelry]

53) SylettSoap: Sylett Strickland - Dallas [Soap products]

54) SubearthenCottage: Haltom City

55) SweetTreatMaryAnn: Maryann Richards - Keller [Chocolate and sweets]

56) SweetWolf: Austin

57) TheJeweledFlamingo: Bonnie Saxton - Buda [Vintage and custom costume jewelry]

58) TheSacredOak: Willow Forrestall - Diboll [Historical costuming, pagan, occult, spiritual curios shop]

59) Treschicdesigns: Sharon Hightower - Katy [OOAK and limited edition jewelry]

60) Upstairs-Studio: Carolyn Huie – Campbell [Eclectic artist and jewelry maker]

Taste of Texas Artfire Weekly Guild Spotlight!

2009-04-12T18:19:00.001-07:00

Ok i'm sorry I missed last week, but here we are back again this week with our Taste of Texas Artfire weekly spotlight. Each week we feature nine different members of the Texas Artfire Guild. We are a group of artisans that work together to promote our arts in through out different methods. This week I was having a hard time coming up with a theme because all of our artisans had such a diverse selection of Artwork, so instead I just choose items that jumped at me from their shops. They are such talented artists, so please enjoy:

Members featured in this weeks spotlight are:

ElephantDreams	http://ElephantDreams.artfire.com
ElisaAlvarado	http://ElisaAlvarado.artfire.com
FFMsupplies	http://FFMsupplies.artfire.com
GemsbyJerri	http://GemsbyJerri.artfire.com
HandmadeWithLove	http://HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
Hosslassart	http://Hosslassart.artfire.com
Illumestudio	http://Illumestudio.artfire.com
JanuaryGirlDesigns	http://JanuaryGirlDesigns.artfire.com
Jellybeanz	http://Jellybeanz.artfire.com

This spotlight was created by James of Birdy's Knits you can visit our blog here: Birdy's Knits the Blog you can also visit us on ByHand as Birdy's Knits.

April Newsletter

2009-04-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

Texas Artfire Newsletter 4/09

Heather Mewis - ffmementos@yahoo.com

http://jinx1764.blogspot.com

To all our new members

I will do my best to published the monthly newsletter during the first week of every month so please get any new information that you would like published to me asap or it’ll have to wait to the next month’s issue.

If you are participating in an upcoming fair please send me the details and I’ll included it in the next newsletter.

Updates

I’ve added several forum topics in the Guild Hall forum. I encourage all members to initiate any topic they deem useful or relevant; and please stop by and add to any current discussions.

We currently have 54 members, including my two shops. Below is an alphabetical list of the shop names, owner names, type of shop and their Texas location. If you have not turned in your guild questionnaire then I will not update further information.

Promotions

Moonstone is currently hosting the Artfire Easter Egg Hunt from April 1^st -21^st. Go to her blog for details, rules and the entry form link. Prizes are vouchers of $50, $20 and $10 to spend in any of the participating Artfire shops. Woohoo!

Artisan Achievements

Houston Area Fairs

Katy Farmer’s Market: www.FarmersMarketAtLaCenterra.com, contact Ro for application

Yale Street Market: www.FirstSaturdayArtMarket.com, contact Mitch, in the Houston Heights, Myself and my friend Diana (abstract oil painter) will be here May 2, 11-6pm

Greatwood Gifts Galore: giftsgaloreatgreatwood@yahoo.com, contact Christina Moreland with Greatwood Elementary in Sugarland Oct 2009

International Gem and Jewelry Show: http://www.intergem.net/ , in the Reliant Center in Houston

Sienna Plantation Garage Sale and Craft Fair, Sienna Plantation in Missouri City at the main pool and Club Sienna, April 4, 7-11 am. I will be at booth 77! This sale is biannual in the spring and fall.

Member List

1) 3zart: Alexandria “AJ” McCormick (guild master of Artfire Decor) - Amarillo [Fun and funky décor items]

2) ABlondandatorch: Jen Nixon - China [Simple sterling silver and gold filled jewelry]

3) Andreadesigns: Andrea Wagner - Austin [Crocheted scarves and items]

4) Apunkincardcompany: Amie Needham - Montgomery [stationary and cards]

5) Bagsandbeads4u2: Lisa Kripps - Cleburne [Classic and quirky accessories]

6) Beachcomberscove: Norma Gafford - Corpus Christi [Tropical jewelry and art]

7) BigPikaChica: Heather Larsen - Bedford [General crafter]

8) Birdysknits: Birdy and James Coffman - San Antonio [Knitted items] http://www.birdysknits.com/blog

9) BlueBonnetDesigns: Yvonne Cornelius - Killeen [Beadweaving and bead embroidery]

10) BohemianRose: Jenn Carpenter - Mansfield [Soaps, lip balms and sugar scrubs]

11) BrokenHallelujah: Lubbock

12) CandleBoulevard: Houston [Fun candles]

13) Cctexan3: - Houston [Upscale jewelry]

14) Cedarjunction: Teresa Yates - Kingsville [Collage and mixed media vintage]

15) Claytiger: Glenn Ray Hall - Westlaco [Funky items from polyclay, copper and brass]

16) CountryLady: Betty Lee - Schertz

17) CreatedWithFire: Katy

18) CreationsbyDaniela: Gatesville

19) ElephantDreams: Houston

20) ElisaAlvarado: Elisa Alvarado - Round Rock [Contemporary bright figurative art]

21) FFMsupplies: Heather Mewis – Guild master – Missouri City [Vintage and destash]

22) GemsbyJerri: Jerri Chatham - Comfort [Jewelry for everyday wear]

23) HandmadeWithLove: Susan Griggs Peterman - Houston [Quilting]

24) Hosslassart: Connie Owens - Burleson [Watercolor artist of nature themes]

25) Illumestudio: Sylvia McDougald Holmes - Warren [Fused glass jewelry]

26) JanuaryGirlDesigns: Copperas Cove

27) Jellybeanz: Erica Christensen - Midland [Boutique shop for children, bath and paper goods]

28) Jinx1764 (Feathered Friends Mementos): Heather Mewis – Guild master Missouri City [Feather jewelry and items inspired by birds and nature]

29) KatherineKouture: Dallas

30) Kathiskreations: Katherine Price - Frisco [Quilting, sewing and knitting]

31) KnottybyNature: Erin - Houston

32) LBCDesigns: Lorraine King, Barbara Terry, Cynthia Jones - Houston [Eclectic jewelry and accessories]

33) Lifeisbutacharm: Yvonne Cornleius - Killeen [Mixed media, tile and glass pendants]

34) MagicWeaver: Mesquite

35) MeBirdDesigns: Robin Berri - Longview [Art jewelry using vintage and found items]

36) NancyMedinaArt: Nancy Medina - Flower Mound [Oil and watercolor art of nature and pets]

37) Omaleinert: Jutta Cuttingham - Garland

38) OntheLlanoStudio: Hilton Mclaurin - Lubbock [Pewter pendant foundary]

39) Pathea: Pattie Panuccio - Bronte [Wire jewelry with natural stones and vintage]

40) Pollywawgs: Jenny Lynch - Amarillo [Sew anything: dolls, blankets and embroiders]

41) RockyCreekGems: Linda Mcmurry - Elgin [Gemstone jewelry, knitting and quilting]

42) Ruthbl: Ruth Blake La Porte [Handmade glass beads, resin and metal jewelry]

43) SacredTreasures: Houston

44) ShadesofSplendor: Victoria Coronado - Round Rock [Shabby chic home décor]

45) Snowbabyscreations: Petra Harding – Lubbock [Knit and crochet for baby and children, home décor]

46) Studio219: Cara Ellison - Spring

47) StudioDesigns: Celinda Barrett - Amarillo [Affordable handmade jewelry]

48) SylettSoap: Sylett Strickland - Dallas [Soap products]

49) SubearthenCottage: Haltom City

50) SweetTreatMaryAnn: Maryann Richards - Keller [Chocolate and sweets]

51) SweetWolf: Austin

52) TheJeweledFlamingo: Bonnie Saxton - Buda [Vintage and custom costume jewelry]

53) Treschicdesigns: Sharon Hightower - Katy [OOAK and limited edition jewelry]

54) Upstairs-Studio: Carolyn Huie – Campbell [Eclectic artist and jewelry maker]