Handmade FuZion

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER CONTEST BEGINS

2009-08-01T05:18:00.000-07:00

The Dog Days of Summer Contest!
AUG 1ST - AUG 31ST

No signup is necessary. Everyone is eligible to win! (as long as you are a memeber of handmade FuZion).

We have assigned a point value for things you normally do in building your business, such as relisting an item, making a purchase, and referring your friends. The member with the highest points wins!!!

Tickets Awarded:

Tickets for each Relisted Item = 100
Tickets for each Person you Refer = 200
Tickets for each Purchase you make = 300

Prizes awarded:

1st place - 2 Weeks FREE Advertisement on Entire Web PPC ( http://www.entireweb.com/speedyads/) We will create a campaign for your store and advertise with your chosen keywords.
2nd place - $25.00 in your Handmade FuZion Account
3rd place - Beautiful Polymer Clay Necklace (Donated by DanzDzynes)

Chocolate Vines on Blue Tote Bag - $ 35.00 - Handmade FuZion Social

2009-07-10T19:16:00.001-07:00

Chocolate Vines on Blue Tote Bag - $ 35.00 - Handmade FuZion Social

Shared via AddThis

ARTISAN INDEPENDENCE CONTEST!

2009-06-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

ARTISAN INDEPENDENCE CONTEST!

JULY 1ST - JULY 31ST

No signup is necessary. Everyone is eligible to win!

Here's how it works:

We have assigned a point value for things you normally do in building your business, such as listing an item, making a purchase and telling your friends. The member with the highest points wins!!!

Tickets Awarded:

Tickets for each item Listed = 100
Tickets for each item Purchased = 200
Tickets for each New Referral = 100

Prizes awarded:

1^st place - 2 Weeks FREE Advertisement on Entire Web PPC ( http://www.entireweb.com/speedyads/) We will create a campaign for your store and advertise with your chosen keywords.

2^nd place - $25.00 in your Handmade FuZion Account

3rd place - 10 Beautiful Handmade Cards (Donated by The Sleeping Princess)

INSTA-TWIT NEW HERE ON HANDMADEFUZION

2009-05-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

http://shophf.com/pages/r...tweet.html

Handmade FuZion is proud to announce a BRAND NEW
advertising tool that can skyrocket your listing exposure and increase sales!!!

INSTA-TWIT

How do I use INSTA-TWIT?
This unique new feature for handmadefusion.com enables you to automatically send out a twitter link each time you list a new item on the site. Why do double the work? Now you can let your handmadefusion account do it for you!

INSTA-TWIT Directions: Add your Insta-Twit to your account.
To do this go to Members Area>Control Panel>Click on INSTA-TWIT then scroll down to Twitter settings and enter in your twitter user name and password, click the Update button.

Each time you create a new listing or a listing is renewed it will automatically tweet a link. If you don't have a twitter account or choose not to use yours, our default account will be used which is HandmadeFuZion.

The link looks like this: http://bit.ly/wKz7I Strawberries - For sale at http://www.handmadefusion.com

Here's HOW: Create an account** on http://www.handmadefusion.com/formSpan.php? setup your account information which will include your twitter account. List your items (Currently For FREE) and Insta-Twit will automatically send out a tweet for you!

SPRING HAS SPRUNG CONTEST WINNERS!!!

2009-05-21T07:21:00.000-07:00

SPRING HAS SPRUNG CONTEST!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!!!

1^st place - $25.00 Cash - thesleepingprincess
2^nd place - $10.00 Credit to your Handmade FuZion Account - TheOldTree
3rd place - Green Aliens Lampwork Bead Cellphone Charm (Thank you Glasstastic Treasures for your generous donation!!!) - Katherineskards

Stay Tuned for Our Next Exciting Handmade FuZion Contest

Coming Soon!

INSTA-TWIT Exclusively on Handmade FuZion!

2009-05-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Handmade FuZion is proud to announce a BRAND NEW advertising tool that can skyrocket your listing exposure and increase sales!!!

INSTA-TWIT How do I use INSTA-TWIT? This unique new feature for handmadefusion.com enables you to automatically send out a twitter link each time you list a new item on the site. Why do double the work? Now you can let your handmadefusion account do it for you!

INSTA-TWIT Directions: Add your Insta-Twit to your account. To do this go to Members Area>Control Panel>Click on INSTA-TWIT then scroll down to Twitter settings and enter in your twitter user name and password, click the Update button.
Each time you create a new listing or a listing is renewed it will automatically tweet a link. If you don't have a twitter account or choose not to use yours, our default account will be used which is HandmadeFuZion.

The link looks like this: http://bit.ly/wKz7I Strawberries - For sale at http://www.handmadefusion.com

FREE FREE FREE

2009-05-16T14:58:00.000-07:00

Handmade FuZion is now offering FREE Listings. For a limited time only you can list your handmade items on www.handmadefusion.com for FREE!

There is no setup fee or other hidden site fees... Don't Hesitate - List Now!

NEW FEATURES AND TOOLS ON HF

2009-04-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

NEW FRONT PAGE FEATURED ARTISAN: We have just installed a brand new script that will randomly select a new Featured Artisan to be displayed on the front page each time the front page is hit or refreshed. This is a complete review and can include full HTML and an interview if you wish!
NEW TICKET SUPPORT SYSTEM: This added featured will enable our artisans and visitors to submit tickets for any issues, bugs or questions that may arise. The added function is to create a knowledge base for all to benefit from.
NEW SHIPPING DETAILS FEATURE: When your item has sold and you are ready to ship to your buyer you should contact them via email, the Message Board (through Handmade FuZion) and also by using the new updated Shipping Options through the member control panel. Directions here
FRONT PAGE ADVERTISING: We now are proud to display a banner advertisement on our front page. It is under the Featured Items and is available for purchase on a monthly basis and will rotate. We’ve limited the number of advertisers in this spot to allow for maximum exposure. Ads are approved on a first-come-first-served basis. Get your spot NOW!

JUST ADDED TODAY!!!
Handmade FuZion now has a new site feature "Store Reviews!!! http://shophf.com We have amazing artisans...check it out and leave a review!

coming soon.... item reviews, guestbook, member stats and much more!!!

SPRING HAS SPRUNG CONTEST!!!

2009-04-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!!!

APRIL 20 - MAY 20, 2009

^{No signup is necessary. Everyone is eligible to win! Don't wait get started now!!!}

^{How it works:}

^{We have assigned virtual tickets for things you normally do in building your business,
such as listing an item, making a purchase and telling your friends about Handmade FuZion.}
SIGN IN NOW!!!

^{Tickets Awarded:}^{Virtual Tickets for each Item Listed = 100}^{Virtual Tickets for each Item Purchased = 100}^{Virtual Tickets for each New Referral = 100}^{(The person you refer needs to put your name into the registration form. You will receive your tickets manually)}

^{Two winners will be selected based on the highest total points.}

^{Prizes awarded:}^{1st place - $25.00 Cash in your Paypal Account}^{2nd place - $10.00 Credit to your Handmade FuZion Account (*Note: If you hold a buyers only account, then we will credit your Paypal Account )}

^{Can not be combined with any other offer or contest.}^{If you would like to donate an item for the next contest please contact us at}^{admin@handmadefusion.com}^{. If you are selected we will add 50 tickets to your account.}

Featured Artisan Soap Store

2009-03-23T03:38:00.000-07:00

Where are you located? Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania

How long have you been creating handmade items? Since 1999

What type of products do you offer? Natural Gourmet Soaps, Bath, Body, Massage, Salon & Spa Products

How did you decide on your company’s name? Arcadia is a city in Greece known for it's simple, peaceful pastoral way of life. Aromatics is the very essence of what natural handmade products are.

What is your motivation? To offer my customers a better alternative to chemically saturated products that contain large % of harmful, toxic preservatives. To help others improve their health via wellness modalities & natural skin care.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? The most enjoyable part is that I can be extremely creative. My soaps are works of art. My bath & body products are very unique & innovative. The most rewarding part for me is that I'm helping others.

Which items are your best sellers? My soaps of course. By far, my gourmet soaps are my #1 selling product. The look of my soaps are different than most handmade soaps, they are all made with pure, rich coconut milk and other wholesome, skin-loving ingredients, they are extremely large in size & weight and they smell fantastic.

How do you market your products? Word of mouth is my best advertisement. Everything that my company has become is due almost entirely to word of mouth through my loyal customers. I also make regular voluntary contributions to worthy causes, such as womens resources, orphanages, homeless shelters, battered womens shelters & missionaries. I try to spread the word as much as I can via the internet in various mediums such as bath & body product reviews and blog articles. I regularly feature my products at craft fairs, festivals and markets.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I love how user friendly the site is. Listing products is a snap. I can maneuver around the site very easily. I would however like to see some more tutorials or help sections on creating/deleting categories & sub-categories.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Keep going. If this is your dream, if being a part of the indie community brings you a sense of satisfaction & joy, if helping other people is the most rewarding thing you've done.......keep going. Keep motivated. Keep striving to be better than yesterday. Don't let anyone or anything stop you from becoming all that you can be. The temptation to quit will be greatest just before you are about to succeed. So keep going. You CAN make a difference.

Featured Artisan Miascloset

2009-02-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

1. Where are you located? Shelby Township , MI

2. How long have you been creating handmade items? I started designing pet apparel in 2003, but I have been a designer since I was old enough to pick up a pencil.

3. What type of products do you offer? Pet apparel, fun neck wear, harnesses and custom t-shirts.

4. How did you decide on your company’s name? I started designing apparel for my own pup and her name was Mia. This shop is dedicated to her.

5. What is your motivation? I just love what I do. I believe that pets are such an important part of a happy life and they are with us such a short time. To me, responsible pet ownership includes having fun with them. I try to create designs to reflect that.

6. What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I enjoy the whole process from creating a design on paper, to seeing the finished product.

7. Which items are your best sellers? I really don’t have a best seller. My coats and dresses are very popular. My customers are so varied and I try to create items that appeal to a wide range of pet owners.

8. How do you market your products? I really haven’t had to do much marketing.

9. What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? This is a site that is easy to navigate. I like the screening process which is why I applied to this site.

10. Do you have any advice for other artisans? I believe that you have to have an enthusiasm for what you are creating. Artisans need to find their niche and create what they love.

Featured Artisan Mellowyellowsoap

2009-02-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

Where are you located? Texas

How long have you been creating handmade items? Seems like I have always been creating something but I have only been selling my creations since May 08

What type of products do you offer? handcrafted soaps and body care items

How did you decide on your company’s name? My soaps are all natural and natural soaps are not white. By leaving the soaps natural without any artificial dyes, brighteners or artificial fragrances I end up with an off-white (yellow) but very skin friendly and mild (mellow) soap - that's where the name Mellow Yellow Soap Company comes from

What is your motivation? I love to honor nature in my creations and firmly believe that by leaving things as natural as possible and not adding unnecessary artificial ingredients we can be kinder to our bodies.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? That I get to use them myself and know that only the best ingredients went into them! I also love to hear how my creations work for my customers.

Which items are your best sellers? The Avocado Bar is my bestseller. Avocado oil is so gentle on the skin and this bar has no added fragrance at all - not even Essential Oils - so it works really well with skin that gets irritated by other soaps (eczema, etc.)

How do you market your products? I have my own website www.mellowyellowsoap.com and I now also love to offer my products through Fuzion

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I think it would be important to make the CP more user friendly.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Do what you love and make products you enjoy yourself. Don't cut corners when it comes to quality and customer service.

VALENTINE'S DAY CONTEST WINNERS!!!

2009-02-08T04:48:00.000-08:00

CASH FOR VALENTINE'S DAY CONTEST!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!!!

1^st place - $25.00 Cash - Glasstastic Treasures

2^nd place - $10.00 Credit to your Handmade FuZion Account - Mheld

3^rd place - Beautiful Valentines Day Full Scrapbook Layout Page- (Donated by Scrap Your Memories by Rhonda ) - CharmBoutique

Stay Tuned for Our Next Exciting Handmade FuZion Contest

Coming Soon!

Featured Artisan Dharma Designs

2009-02-06T04:10:00.000-08:00

Where are you located? Portland, Oregon

How long have you been creating handmade items? All my life - although not professionally until a year ago when my friends and a few strangers talked me into it.

What type of products do you offer? Asian inspired jewelry, pencil portraits, paintings, photos of my world travels, chai and exotic spice blends (coming soon) - what ever I happen to be in the mood for. :-) I'm also writing a fictional novel about a medical evacuation helicopter crew durring the Vietnam War.

How did you decide on your company’s name? I love the Buddhist concept of Dharma - a kind of Do Unto Others As You Would Have Them Do Unto You philosophy.

What is your motivation? I have an over-active imagination - and that little hamster in my brain keeps running on the wheel at full speed. :-) I admit it - I'm eccentric. I get an idea in my head and feel compelled to see it to fruition, whether it be a necklace, a portrait, or painting one of my cabinets to look like an antique from Tibet.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I love the fact that it's so personal - an expression of my soul and how I see the world. A lot of love goes into everything I do. It's like each work is a piece of me I'm sharing with the world.

Which items are your best sellers? So far my jewelry, although I've had a lot of interest in my pencil portraits - and have been commisioned to paint a huge oil painting recently.

How do you market your products? So far I use Etsy.com, Project Wonderful adds on art blogs, and word of mouth. I also happen wear my own jewelry, which has led to a few sales and selling my designs at the Portland Classical Chinese Garden gift shop. Business cards are a must.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I love the site - and all the artists and their creations. It's very user friendly, but I'd like to see the searche function fine tuned (i.e. search for China NOT cups NOT plates)

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Be true to your heart and soul - and follow your passions. Art is about expression, not about making money, which is often why we are "starving artists." LOL I'd rather create art for me and follow my soul than make money. To me, loving what I do and feeling complete is being successful. :-)

Featured Artisan CharmBoutique

2009-02-03T10:26:00.000-08:00

Where are you located? Martensville, Saskatchewan, Canada

How long have you been creating handmade items? For 13 years - I started out making hemp jewelry and that's when I got the crafting 'bug'.

What type of products do you offer? I offer lots of eye candy – pretty pendants, rings, pocket mirrors, wristlet key fobs and more! I love to try everything so as not to bore myself.

How did you decide on your company's name? I was known as The Charm Lady by past customers whom I made custom photo Italian charms for. The name kind of stuck with me.

What is your motivation? Making items that people love and being able to help support my family at the same time is what motivates me.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I love the act of creating – I find it relaxing and it's a great stress reliever for me. I have 3 small children so I need something to do that is just for me.

Which items are your best sellers? My pendants are my best seller. The Buy 2 Get 1 Free offer I have entices buyers. Who doesn't like to get something for free?

How do you market your products? I utilize Twitter, Facebook , Blogger and You Tube as much as possible. I also have shops set up on other online venues.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? Everything! It's easy to navigate and listing items is a snap.

What new features would you like to see? It would be great to be able to rearrange your images instead of having to upload them in a specific order.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Do what you love and just stay positive. You'll be rewarded for your efforts in many ways.

Featured Artisan Auntie Jill

2009-01-28T04:00:00.000-08:00

Where are you located? Rutland, Vermont

How long have you been creating handmade items? I learned to sew when I was 4 years old, and have been creating hand sewn items since then. I officially started selling my work under the name "Auntie Jill" on January 1st, 2008. (It was my New Year's Resolution to get my work "out there" and actually sell it rather then just making them for friends and family.) By April I was sewing plush toys full time as my only job.

What type of products do you offer? I make stuffed animal (plush) toys from patterns I have designed myself and have also made plush airplanes, lighthouses, and pillows by customer request and some clothing - although I prefer to focus on plush toys.

How did you decide on your company’s name? My nephew once got upset at my step-dad for calling me "Jill". He thought that my name was "Auntie Jill" and was offended that anyone dared call me something else. It was really cute and since my nieces and nephews are a source of great inspiration, I decided it was a good name for my company.

What is your motivation? Kids of all ages. I have a degree in art and a ton of training and licensing in childcare and child development, but it has been my personal interactions with babies and kids that has really taught me what they like and dislike and I use that experience to design my patterns and select fabrics. I worked in a crises center for a while and realized that what I care about most in life is comforting kids and making them smile. I hope my work does this for all the kids who receive my toys.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I get to give a little of myself with everything I make - I get to put a little love into each toy and I really believe that it makes my toys a little more special then something you could buy in the store.

Which items are your best sellers? My snuggle bunnies sell the best.

How do you market your products? I've taken out ads in Craft and Venus Magazine, and use Twitter, but have had the best responses through bloggers who have a following of young parents. I've done give-aways and provided products for reviews to a few bloggers and have had great response from those.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I think its really easy to use as a seller, and I have the impression they really care if their sellers succeed or not and invest not only in their own success, but the success of their crafters.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Be passionate about what you are making. It shows. Also let the perfectionist inside of you find its voice - even if it means you're not making a profit at first it will pay off in the long run with more repeat customers and more customer referrals. If I make an item that doesn't turn out perfect I find a way to fix it or I don't sell it. I also take the time to attend to all the tiny details that I figure the average customer doesn't even notice - because some of them do and I feel better about the product I sell if I know it is perfect.

VALENTINE'S DAY CONTEST!!!

2009-01-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

CASH FOR VALENTINE'S DAY!

JAN. 24^th – FEB. 7^th, 2008

FREE Giveaway for Valentine's Day!!!

No signup for the contest is necessary**. Everyone is eligible to win!

Here's how it works:

We have assigned virtual tickets for things you normally do in building your business, such as listing an item, making a purchase and telling your friends.

Tickets Awarded:

Virtual Tickets for each Item Listed = 50
Virtual Tickets for each Item Purchased = 75
Virtual Tickets for each New Referral = 100 (The person you refer needs to put your name into the registration form. You will receive your tickets manually)

Prizes awarded:
1^st place - $25.00 Cash in your Paypal Account

2^nd place - $10.00 Credit to your Handmade FuZion Account (*Note: If you hold a buyers only account, then we'll credit your Paypal Account )

3^rd place - Beautiful Valentines Day Full Scrapbook Layout Page - Donated by Scrap Your Memories by Rhonda )

**You must hold a HandmadeFuZion account to participate. Signup is FREE!

If you would like to donate an item for the next contest please contact us at admin@handmadefusion.com. If you are selected we will add 25 tickets to your account.

Featured Artisan Pamelaquilts

2009-01-24T04:45:00.000-08:00

Where are you located? I live on the beautiful Oregon Coast in Coos Bay.

How long have you been creating handmade items? I've loved making things for as long as I can remember. I began sewing very young because my Mother is a seamstress, and she taught me how to sew. I made most of my clothes in High School, my own Wedding Gown, and then clothing for my daughters. In 1986 a friend introduced me to the wonderful world of quilting and I have never looked back! I also do cross-stitch, knit, and crochet, but quilting is definitely my passion.

What type of products do you offer? Quilts of all shapes and sizes and a variety of other quilted items. I love the freedom of free-motion quilting and have used this art to create a variety of items.

How did you decide on your company’s name? I wanted a simple name that was easily identifiable so I used a combination of my first name with what I do!

What is your motivation? I love working with fabric, the colors and textures along with all the possible combinations of design excite me. I love the three dimensional aspect of quilting and the way the quilting stitches can accentuate the pieced designs in a quilt.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? The fact that each item is unique, and that a quilt made well will last for years. I love the challenge of piecing, making the points pointy and the corners match. Sometimes it seems like the only thing I can control in my life and it's a wonderful world of peace and order! I love the speed and versatility of machine quilting, but also the peacefulness of hand-stitching.

Which items are your best sellers? My quilted postcards have been quite popular. They are a wonderful way to own a little piece of quilted art.

How do you market your products? I blog, am marketing locally with a group of other artists, and enjoy showing my quilts at quilt shows.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I love the relist similar feature! Makes it so easy to list a new item without starting from scratch! I'm sure I haven't explored all of the nooks and crannies yet, but I also like the blogs and forum section. I love that it is a juried site!

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Make what you love, and then everything else will follow!

Featured Artisan Dottyral

2009-01-21T04:00:00.000-08:00

Where are you located?

I live and create in the beautiful Middletown Valley in Maryland.

How long have you been creating handmade items?

Forever. It started as a young girl when my grandmother taught me to crochet. I started out making things for family and myself, then started selling at craft shows, then wholesale trade shows. I started selling my creations online about three years ago. The internet is a wonderful thing!

What type of products do you offer?

My main focus for the past three years has been designing and creating pincushions. Making the practical cute is what I like to do. I want my pincushions to be more functional and even cuter than what you'll find at the local craft store. I think they are. Most of my pincushions don't just provide a place to store your pins, they're filled with a mineral called emery to keep them sharp too. My Emery Pincushions resemble strawberries, peapods, bunnies, and cherries atop cute cupcakes. My Pincushion Rings keep your pins right where you need them. All of them - super cute, practical and well-made.

How did you decide on your company's name?

I wish I had a different answer for this one. My unofficial, internet company name is "dottyral" - my first name and part of my last name. That was the username that I chose on my first internet site. I didn't realize at the time that name would become how I was known. I resisted for a long time, using my official company name along with it. I eventually realized that I need to embrace "dottyral". That's the name that was connected to my pincushions all over the internet. I now use it everywhere. If only I'd put more thought into it three years ago!

What is your motivation?

I'm inspired by practicality. I make things that are useful. I'm inspired by what's out there, and how I can improve it. I'm motivated by loving what I do. I love to design and create. I'd spend all day, every day doing it if I could. I'm motivated by the fact that I can generate income while staying at home. It doesn't get any better than to make money doing what you love, being your own boss, working on your own schedule, and all from the comfort of home.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items?

I adore doing handwork. Sitting in my comfy chair with my family nearby, taking tiny stitch after tiny stitch. It's relaxing and brings me great joy.

Which items are your best sellers?

This year, my cupcakes with cherries and my peapod pincushions were my best sellers.

How do you market your products?

I advertise online. I have a blog and flickr account. I think I've joined just about every social networking site on the internet!

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion?

I love the scrolls of recently listed and sold items.

What new features would you like to see?

I'm very impressed with the way that Handmade FuZion has adapted and changed since its opening. I can't think of anything specific at the moment. I know that when/if I do think of something that HF admin will listen and take it into consideration.

Do you have any advice for other artisans?

Do what you love. Don't look at what others are doing. Take some quiet time to think - often. It's amazing what you'll come up with.

Do you have anything else to share?

My most exciting recent accomplishment was receiving three official copyrights. This was a really big deal to me. Applying for them was rather scary and I really didn't know if they'd be approved. I was surprised and so pleased when the certificates arrived in the mail. Each copyright covers a whole collection - Pincushion Rings, Pincushion Pal Rings and Emery Pincushion Rings.

Featured Artisan Morgan Street

2009-01-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

Where are you located?

Bridgeport, Connecticut

How long have you been creating handmade items?

I started out making just soap which was over eight years ago.

What type of products do you offer?

I offer handmade soaps, whipped body butters, sugar scrubs, foot care products, fizzy bath bombs, lip balms and solid lotion bars.

How did you decide on your company's name?

That was easy. I grew up in the UK on Morgan Street. That was my home for 18 years of my life. It's where I learned how to knit, sew, draw & paint and the back yard was where I would squish flower petals between my finger tips to see if I could get perfume out of them.

What is your motivation?

I recently found out that my now deceased grandmother who I barely knew was a soap maker also. This knowledge has affirmed for me that I'm doing the right thing and explains my addiction to all things soapy.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items?

It feels good knowing every single ingredient that I'm putting on my skin.

Which items are your best sellers?

Black Raspberry Vanilla and ChocoTherapy bar soaps sell very well. During the winter the body butters are quite popular too.

How do you market your products?

I really don't do much in the way of marketing. I dabble a little with Project Wonderful and I also have a blog where I write about my soaping adventures sometimes.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion?

I love the "List Similar Item" feature. It makes listing so easy and quick. I also love that our items are submitted to Google Base.

What new features would you like to see?

Maybe an arena where shops can announce any sales they're running. So shoppers can click on a link to see a listing of shops offering deals.

Do you have any advice for other artisans?

My advice would be to make sure you love what you're creating. If you're passionate about it, it will show in the end product.

Treat your customers with the utmost respect. Wrap their goodies as if you're sending them a special gift. They will appreciate it.

Featured Artisan Cyndie Smith Designs

2009-01-16T13:00:00.001-08:00

Where are you located? Florida

How long have you been creating handmade items? I was always dabbling, mostly pottery, but have been doing metal for 5 years.

What type of products do you offer? Wearable art, made of metal, mostly in the form of jewelry.

How did you decide on your company's name? I couldn't think of anything really catchy that hadn't already been used, so I went with my own name. Not much imagination there, I guess!

What is your motivation? The metal itself. I see infinite possibilities in a piece of metal or wire, mostly in an organic sense. When I apply a torch, the metal moves and forms in unexpected ways. I take that piece and build on it.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? My biggest joy is seeing someone wearing it! It's personal for me, and when they buy and wear it, it becomes personal to them. Like giving one of my children a good home.

Which items are your best sellers? My life cuff in particular. Last year I made it to honor the death of a dear friend. The story resonated with many people and I made over 40 custom orders of that cuff, in silver, copper or brass, in less than 6 months after I introduced it. My folded cuffs, in general, have done very well.

How do you market your products? On line with social and professional networks, some printed advertising, through the galleries, and by wearing the designs. I've had people buy pieces right off my arm!

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion?
What new features would you like to see? I like the summary in our shops, and the ability to have a store newsletter, though I haven't gotten started on that yet. Would love to see more stats for the site, overall, and more subcategories when listing.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Do what you love. Create what gives you pleasure. And market, market, market. I'm new to HF, so I haven't done much of that here yet. But I learned from experience on another venue, that it works when you have a business plan to follow and marketing must be an integral part of that plan.

Featured Artisan BlueJeanJess

2009-01-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

BlueJeanJess

I am Jess and I love to make cute baby items.

Where are you located? I live in Bakersfield, California.

How long have you been creating handmade items? As long as I can remember...starting way back in Elementary School I would put together fun homemade Halloween costumes. After I married, I started making baby blankets and quilts...now I make all sorts of things.

What type of products do you offer? I make mostly baby items, from small toys to burp cloths and blankets.

How did you decide on your company's name? I have used bluejeanjess for almost 7 years now...I started out making beaded jewelry under Blue Jean Chic Jewelry then it evolved into just bluejeanjess....which lets me do what I want...who knows where it will lead me.

What is your motivation? I am motivated by color, when I walk into a fabric store the colors entice me to buy fabrics...I usually have an idea about what I want to make but usually it changes some once I find the perfect fabric. I am not a fabric hoarder; I tend to buy what I need for a specific project and then make it. Only once the item is made and I like it do I buy additional fabric.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I love to see my items being used. I get a thrill when I see someone using and enjoying the items I made for their baby. That makes it worthwhile.

Which items are your best sellers? I sell tons of my Sprinkle No Mores (better known as pee pee tee pees). I have this idea in my mind that I will have ten of each set made and ready for eventual sales, which never happens. Usually I get an order for the one I don't have finished and the ones I do have finished just sit there...

How do you market your products? I have them listed on a couple different sites, other than that I don't. I am a full time student, with a part time job, three children and I am going through a divorce...I wish I had ten more hours in every day, five for sleep and five to be productive!

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I like being able to add like items...this feature save tons of time.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Enjoy the process, have fun with your business.

Featured Artisan Underglass

2009-01-11T11:30:00.001-08:00

Under Glass

Where are you located? I am located on the rocky coastline of Connecticut, we are a military family and have been stationed here for the last 13 years

How long have you been creating handmade items? Oh boy! I can't remember a time when I was not creating, so I would say from a very young age.

What type of products do you offer? Right now my current passion is jewelry, resin, plastic, glass, beads, and especially collage!

How did you decide on your company's name? When I was little I was fascinated by a collection of glass domes my grandmother had, every size and shape. Under each of the glass domes were her favorite items, those things most precious to her.
Items that were honored enough to placed under one of her glass domes were not all expensive or breakable, they were the items that touched her heart. A pressed dandelion, a hand embroidered handkerchief from her grandmother, a small cup full of pearls from her wedding dress.
When I would give my grandmother a handmade gift I would know I really got it right when she would say, "This is wonderful, this belongs under glass!" And up she would lift one of the precious glass domes and place her gift under it.
In my shop I hope you to will find something that touches your heart, something you will feel is good enough to place under glass. And that is why I chose "underglass" as my company's name.

What is your motivation? A deep seated need to create something all the time, I get hugely restless if I go too long without creating something!

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? Everything!
I love the ideas that come flowing through my brain as I am creating, I love the way it can transform from one idea and turn out to be something totally different but just as satisfying when it is complete. I love experimenting with all the wonderful supplies available. I especially love how those that appreciate handmade item are so enthusiastic about the work, creativity and heart that I put into each item.

Which items are your best sellers? I have teeny tiny Ouija board necklaces adorned with a cluster of beads and crystals, strung on a modern silicone cord that I can't seem to keep in stock. Also the tubular collage necklaces are different and very popular. But probably the most popular items in my shop are the translucent resin necklaces with barren trees and hand colored backgrounds .Dusk, Dawn, Scarlet twilight, Violet twilight, and Reflection to name a few.

How do you market your products? I have two online shops that I promote regularly, in various forums, I have had huge success participating in the little black box promotions and advertising on craft cult.
But hands down, the best marketing tool is word of mouth, offer great quality products, at a good price, and add in excellent customer service and you will find people will spread the word.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I absolutely love the ability to run a sale in an easy way! That feature alone is worth it's weight in gold!
With all the bells and whistles that are already available on Handmade FuZion I can't think of anything new I would like to see, but if I think of anything I will be sure to let you know!

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Put all of your heart into your creations, and love what you do!

Featured Artisan Twiddlestix

2009-01-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

Twiddlestix

This shop features handmade greeting cards. If you are looking for unique cards for (almost) any occasion, you have come to the right place! I try to keep a good variety, and love to use lots of color, and pattern. Enjoy!

Where are you located? Northwest Iowa

How long have you been creating handmade items? About 5 years

What type of products do you offer? I make Greeting cards for almost every occasion.

How did you decide on your company’s name? I had a list of 5 or so names that I liked, and then brought them to my children to see which one they liked the best. We shouted out our favorites and twiddlestix one won! I really love my shop name!

What is your motivation? I really enjoy receiving handmade cards in the mail, and so I want others to have that same feeling!

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I am a paper fanatic, and just looking at the papers just makes me want to create. It's a fun thing to do! I get to sit and create, even though there is rarely a time when there is no interruptions, it just makes me happy to see the end result.

Which items are your best sellers? So far I have not sold anything on Fuzion, but I have sold on other sites. My best seller was a card that I made for Mother's day that featured a cherry blossom stamp. It was a very pretty card! Also, many cards that I stamped a tree image on have done really well.

How do you market your products? I do a lot of social sites, such as a blog, flickr, twitter, and others.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I like how the pictures load when I am getting a new product up. The items that are just uploaded and scroll across the home page is really neat!

Do you have any advice for other artisans? It can be hard to sell your items, but with persistence, and belief in yourself, the sales with come! Just remember to enjoy creating, and have the sales come as an added bonus!

Featured Artisan Blue Sky Pottery

2009-01-08T06:03:00.001-08:00

Blue Sky Pottery / Deb Babcock

I was honored last year to be asked to submit my work which is featured in Best Of America Pottery and Woodworking Artists & Artisans Vol.1 by Kennedy Publishing.

Where are you located? I live in the mountains of northwest Colorado in Steamboat Springs. We're noted for our ski mountain and the number of Olympians who live and train here.

How long have you been creating handmade items? My first pottery class at the local college was taken in 2001. Since then, I've honed my skills with additional classes and workshops through such venues as Anderson Ranch, Laloba Clay Ranch, attending NCECA conferences, etc.

What type of products do you offer? The majority of my work is functional dinnerware. I like to think of it as a whimsically elegant style with the use of bright colors, textures and embellishments.

How did you decide on your company's name? Actually, a friend of mine came up with the name when we decided to rent studio space together. Meanwhile, she left to raise her young children and I retained the name.

What is your motivation? I enjoy making artistic pieces that are also useful. So I strive to combine functionality with my desire for pleasing all of your senses when you hold and use my pottery.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? For me, it is the almost unlimited number of ways that I can use creativity to make something. From manipulating soft clay to form an object, to altering it via carving, poking, embellishments, etc. through the glazing phase and sometimes beyond when you add found objects to a piece.

Which items are your best sellers? People tend to especially enjoy my organic series of pieces that include teacups on leaf saucers, berry bowls and leaf bowls. My teardrop series of vases gain a lot of interest and are featured in shows and publications as are the whimsical teapots for which I have a nice following of admirers.

How do you market your products? Online through a site such as Handmade FuZion, in my studio which doubles as a gallery of my work and is located in an office building not too far from the ski mountain here, and at an annual holiday sale that is held locally with other ceramic artists.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? One thing that I especially appreciate about Handmade Fuzion is the personal touch the owners provide, with frequent updates on what they are doing to promote the site, and the enhancements they have added as they receive feedback from buyers and sellers. It has a clean look, seems easy to navigate, and as a seller, it is easy to upload my work. Frankly, I need to get more of my work listed here since it is kind of hard to sell your work if you don't have it listed and available for sale, right? 

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Communication is key to making an online buyer comfortable and happy with their purchase. I always acknowledge a sale as soon as it comes through and tell the buyer a little something about the piece they bought, when it will go in the mail, with a request to let me know that it arrived safely. I also enclose a business card that contains a guarantee on the back should the recipient have any problems with my pottery. I offer to repair, replace or refund their money.

My teapot set that is currently on display at an International Teapot Show.

Featured Artisan Jewellia

2009-01-06T09:16:00.001-08:00

Jewellia

Jewellia is all about unique, elegant jewellery, carefully handcrafted from quality materials.

Where are you located? - Rehovot, Israel
How long have you been creating handmade items? - For 2 years.
What type of products do you offer? - Elegant handmade jewellry with sterling siver, gemstones, metalwork.
How did you decide on your company's name? - I wanted a name that would be easy to remember in all languages, so my husband and I decided on Jewellia - which sounds like a name, Julia, but indicates jewels and jewellery.
What is your motivation? - To create beautiful things that wold make people happy.
What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? - The freedom to create whatever I want and to bring my ideas to life.
Which items are your best sellers? - Simple sterling silver rings and earrings.
How do you market your products? - Not extensively... I blog, I have a Flickr account, Twitter, and a few ads on Project Wonderful.
What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? - I like the site layout and the featured items. I would like to see stats for sellers and more advertisement geared toward buyers.
Do you have any advice for other artisans? - Be creative and optimistic!

Featured Artisan Life Dance Art Studio

2009-01-05T09:24:00.001-08:00

Life dance Art Studio

Luminescent Art for ambiance, for serenity, for renewal of the spirit.

Where are you located? Durango, Colorado

How long have you been creating handmade items? All my life, but especially the last 4 years

What type of products do you offer? At this time, mainly my light sculptures, but I also offer giclee prints of my art and original abstract paintings and multimedia works.

How did you decide on your company's name? LifeDance Art Studio... I like to think of life as a dance, where we learn to step in flow or sometimes stumble and spend some time off balance. Each has its place in our lives for learning and personal growth.

What is your motivation? To create beauty... I feel that beauty calls forth higher consciousness in humanity, and humanity is at a critical stage in its development at this time in history, so anything that inspires higher, expanded consciousness is needed even more right now. We need to recreate the world, and do it from love, joy and creativity at its best.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I love the design process and watching the creation itself take turns I didn't necessarily plan, feeling I'm co-creating with the Great Creator of the Universe, bringing into being a piece of art as individual and unique as a sunrise or a sunset - each one of a kind. I feel a kind of bliss when I'm creating and watching something beautiful emerge and come to completion.

Which items are your best sellers? So far, light sculptures are a hit. Some of my colorful paintings are favorites with people and I also make frame drums with art on them at times... The drums have been very popular.

How do you market your products? I've been working on marketing online to increase my market beyond my local area, trying many places and strategies and will continue learning and fine-tuning. I plan on placing some of my pieces in local stores in my area in the New Year as well. It's quite a learning process!

What are your favorite features on Handmade fuzion? What new features would you like to see? I think Handmade fuzion is doing fine... I don't have any suggestions at this time; I like the site very much.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Keep creating and be creative with your marketing as well. Try new things, keep doing what works!

Featured Artisan The Blue Cat

2009-01-03T13:45:00.001-08:00

The Blue Cat

Archival prints from original paintings as well as original paintings.

Where are you located? I live just outside of Charlotte, NC and also maintain a very small studio in the South end art district in Charlotte.

How long have you been creating handmade items? On and off since childhood. I enjoyed creating art (mostly pencil drawings) throughout my school years, but took a hiatus for a few years while pursuing a "real" job. I've spent the past 3 years developing my painting skills via workshops and self-study.

What type of products do you offer? Mostly archival prints from my original paintings as well as original paintings. I will soon be offering note cards and jewelry from my art.

How did you decide on your company's name? I wanted a name that was simple and easy to remember. I also love cats and the color blue.

What is your motivation? I have a very strong desire to create art and to run my own little business. I enjoy both the creative and business sides of being a self-represented artist.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I enjoy the challenges of taking a blank canvas and turning it into a painting. I also find painting to be very relaxing and satisfying.

Which items are your best sellers? Prints of whimsical cats.

How do you market your products? I have a blog and I also twitter. I'm a member of a local art league which allows me the opportunity to meet other artists and patrons in person as well as participate in their gallery shows. I also participate in several charity auctions in the Charlotte area throughout the year.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? My favorite feature is the very affordable option for sellers to promote their item(s) on the home page. I also appreciate the ease of listing items. Handmade FuZion is very visually appealing in both images and text.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? I would say to have patience and persistence. Strive to do your best work. Always maintain excellent customer service.

2009 Blog Giveaway

2009-01-02T13:41:00.001-08:00

Handmade FuZions First Blog Giveaway starts January 2, 2009

GIVEAWAY: Scented Junk Food Jewelry

Happy New Year everyone. Sorry it's taken so long to post. Every year after Christmas we take a time-out from our busy lives and just dedicate time to our children.

At our end of year meeting we discussed advertising, new features, giveaways and contests. We are starting the new year on the right foot with our first Blog Giveaway. The unique and upbeat Handmade FuZion artisan DanzDzynes is giving away one Junk Food Jewelry item to a lucky reader.
Thank you to DanzDzynes for being our first contributor. Your scented Junk Food Jewelry is awesome! Leave a comment on the giveaway post. One comment will be randomly selected. Check back on Fridays to see if you're the winner and to enter a new giveaway.

Check out this adorable Peanut butter and Jelly Charm! Yum!!!!

The best part is that you can choose which adorable handmade piece you want and also the scent that you like. Visit the DanzDzynes store and come back here to tell us which Scented Junk Food Jewelry is your favorite. If you win you get the piece you commented about!

Winner will be announced on
Friday January 9^th 2009.

DETAILS: One comment will be chosen at random.
FOR EXTRA COMMENTS YOU CAN
1-follow this blog
2-twitter this giveaway
3-subscribe in a reader.

Good Luck!

Featured Artisan Giggling Goldfish

2008-12-27T04:30:00.000-08:00

Giggling Goldfish

It's just fun stuff.

Where are you located? Boca Raton Florida

How long have you been creating handmade items? I come from a family of artists and crafters and have been creating ever since I can remember.

What type of products do you offer? In this shop I try to create childrens items that will hopefully become one of those life long treasures.

How did you decide on your companyʼs name? When my youngest daughter was younger she would always say that her goldfish were smiling at her, so when we starting creating together it just seemed perfect.

What is your motivation? I am totally kid inspired!

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I am on of those that literally enjoy every single aspect of creating. From thinking up an idea in my head to putting it to paper, the actual creating and adding all those little details that I think make a piece so special to packaging each piece so that it looks like a special gift and then the most important getting the most amazing feedback from a customer telling me just how much their new little piece is loved.

Which items are your best sellers? My watches are definitely a big hit with the moms and little ones. I worked really hard trying to come up with something fun, unique but educational at the same time.. I have an eighteen month old son who always wants to be like the big kids and is always eager to learn. My monster wallets are also doing well. Again, fun but educational.

How do you market your products? I do a lot of word of mouth, passing my business cards out everywhere, Twitter, Flickr, my kids are always with something that I created so that is a big door opener, my webpage is still a work in progress though, but am currently creating new marketing material that I am going to distribute.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? I like that I can view all of my product information on one page. I like that you have the featured artist and will have the Fuzion Finds, would like to see the slide on the front page larger than a one item view.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Believe in yourself and love what you do and the rest will follow. Thank you for your consideration and look forward to listing more items this coming year and being a bigger part of Handmade Fuzion.

Featured Artisan The Soap Buffet

2008-12-26T04:23:00.000-08:00

The Soap Buffet

Handmade Soaps ~ Indulge Yourself

Where are you located? We are located in East Islip, New York which is on Long Island.

How long have you been creating handmade items? I started with paper crafts, cards and such when my children were very little. Moved on to stained glass as they got older, and now that they are all in there teens and will be leaving the nest in the near future my husband and I started our soap business together. We have been making soap for a little more than a year.

What type of products do you offer? At this time we offer a variety of soaps and are planning on expanding to other bath and body products in the coming year.
How did you decide on your company’s name? Well we knew we would be having a variety of different bath products and wanted people to know they can always come back for seconds. The Soap Buffet was born.

What is your motivation? We love to see people’s reactions to certain scents. Everyone has there favorite scent and the pleasure you see on there face when you capture it in your products is priceless.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? We truly enjoy the time we have together making our soaps without the interruptions from the kids. We love to hear from people who have tried handmade soap for the first time. They usually swear they will never go back to store bought soaps again.

Which items are your best sellers? Our Oatmeal Exfoliating Soap is our #1 seller. Many of the mini muffins soaps and cupcake soaps are very popular with the kids. They think they are “so cute” and they are the perfect size for little hands.

How do you market your products? Most of our marketing is done in the forums, through referrals and craft fairs. Hoping to add a blog in the coming year and to expand our Myspace and Facebook accounts.

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? We love the prefilled fields and the option of being on the front page. We think your contests ideas are a great motivation for the sellers!

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Just follow your heart and be creative. What is loved by some is not necessarily loved by all so just do what makes you happy.

Featured Artisan Soul Harbor Jewelry

2008-12-25T04:30:00.000-08:00

Soul Harbor Jewelry

Nature inspired Fine Silver Jewelry created by Joni Doyle-Sims

Where are you located? De Forest, WI
How long have you been creating handmade items? I've been working with Precious Metal Clay for 5 years.
What type of products do you offer? I sell nature inspired, fine silver jewelry.
How did you decide on your company’s name? Creating my artwork is a very personal experience, it comes from deep inside me. I consider this creative process like a harbor for my soul; a safe place to turn to, an inlet, an outlet...A Soul Harbor.
What is your motivation? My motivation comes from the everyday beauty around me here in Wisconsin. I'm motivated by winter's bare tree branches, sunshine on a lake, a dragonfly in flight.
What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? The complete joy of having someone buy something I've made, to have them love and cherish the piece as much as I do. To have what I've put into a piece, transmit the meaning and message, to someone else.
Which items are your best sellers? My carved tree pendants are my best sellers.
How do you market your products? I sell my work at art fairs around Wisconsin. I have jewelry in two galleries in Door County, WI ( Gallery Ten and Forte ) I have work here on Handmade Fuzion and on Etsy.
What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? It's very easy to list and update items on the site, very user friendly!
Do you have any advice for other artisans? Keep working, experimenting and expanding your artistic horizon. You never know what you've got inside you, what you're capable of, until you push yourself past all of your fears and doubts.

Featured Artisan The Loft Lady

2008-12-24T04:14:00.000-08:00

The LoftLady

Quality Fabric & Yarn Creations

Where are you located? McPherson, Kansas (approx 50 miles north of Wichita). I was born in Tacoma, Washington, grew up in Bakersfield, California and lived in Kenai, Alaska for 10 years but I've settled in Kansas and I love it here.

How long have you been creating handmade items? Over 30 years. I started with sewing, then I learned how to knit and later to crochet. About 6 years ago I fell in love with designing jewelery, then I took a class on silversmithing so I could work with sterling silver.
What type of products do you offer? Sewing: Purses, Totes, Wristlets, Wallets, Bibs, small Quilts and Stuffed animals.Knitting & Crochet: Hats, Scarves, Neck Warmers, Ankle Warmers, Gloves and Purses.

How did you decide on your company’s name? I am 'TheLoftLady' because I live in a loft which I absolutely love. It's not fancy but I have so much room for all my work areas. I have 3 tables together for laying out & cutting fabric, a table with 2 sewing machines set up and ready to sew. Two tables for basic jewelry supplies and a work area with a magnifying light, there is even an area for my silver work where I can safely use my torch. I also have a clay table where I make beads and buttons.

What is your motivation? Everybody has a passion and making all these things is mine. I cannot imagine not creating things. My children would tell you they have never know me to not be making something. I have tried to stop and find other areas of interest but I can't so apparently I really don't want to.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? To me it is how I can start out with some fabric or yarn and create anything I want to, there are really no limits as to what I can do if I try. I love that I can just make-up something and I do not have to use a pattern. This also makes my items one-of-a-kind which is something I think buyers love - I mean don't we all love having 'the only one' of something?

Which items are your best sellers? No one item has sold better than others.
How do you market your products? I don't get to do much actual marketing. I live in a small area so have no real maketing opportunities, so although I think marketing is important I spend my time designing and making my products. I hope that the sites on which I sell will do some fantastic maketing on our behalf.

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? I love the way it is set-up, the size of the photos are the greatest! I love the scrolling photos across the top, I think they are so much more interesting then fixed photos. I also love that I can easily list a 'like item'.What new features would you like to see? I think it is interesting to see what others have sold. I would love for the featured artist to change more often for a couple of reasons. One, because more artists can be featured and two because I think people get tired or seeing the same thing everytime they log on. More design options for the stores would be great, maybe having a place for photos of the artist at work or of their work areas would be interesting.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Do what you love to do, do your best work and be honest in your listings.

Featured Artisan 360 Skincare

2008-12-23T04:30:00.000-08:00

360 Skin Care

Where are you located? San Diego, California

How long have you been creating handmade items? We have been making Skin Care products for just shy of 8 years.

What type of products do you offer? We offer a wide spectrum of pampering natural skin care products for the face, body and feet.

How did you decide on your company’s name? We came up with the name after all the products in our line had been created. We covered everything from head to so we though we would be giving customer a full 360 experience. Hence the name 360 Skin Care.

What is your motivation? There are a lot of different motivations in my life, but by far my

biggest motivators are my Children. Showing them that it is possible to follow your dreams and not settle for a job because its easy or a pay check is a rewarding experience. Our family owned business allows me to instill a work ethic in my children that I never could working for someone else. They get to see everything the good and the bad.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? The freedom to experiment. I love taking one ingredient and seeing how it reacts with another ingredient. Each new formulation has the potential to be a success or failure with just a minor modification.

Which items are your best sellers? Our Hydrating Body Scrubs are our number one seller, followed closely by Shea & Aloe Facial Cleanser and Alpha Hydroxy Acid Facial Crème.
How do you market your products? For wholesale we have independent sales representatives, attend spa trade shows and also a lot of direct marketing. For retail marketing we sale via our site www.360SkinCare.com, Handmade FuZion, and Amazon. We also advertise on blogs and in co-operative print ads.

What are your favorite features on Handmade FuZion? What new features would you like to see? My favorite feature is the scrolling images along the top. It keeps the page fresh and engaging. I don’t have any particular upgrade I would like to see at the moment except maybe the ability to see sold items.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Have passion for what you do and keep trying to improve your craft. Whether it is with your actual products, images or your customer service, always strive for the next level.

Featured Artisan Archaic Designs

2008-12-22T04:30:00.000-08:00

Archaic Designs

: contemporary ornamental jewelry
: incorporating elements of glass : metal : stone

Where are you located? Duluth Minnesota

How long have you been creating handmade items? 40 years, I started when I was 10.

What type of products do you offer? Jewelry, incorporating stone, glass and metal.

How did you decide on your company’s name? My name is a combination of my initials and what I do.

What is your motivation? I have a passion for indigenous art and jewelry.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? Putting the pieces of the puzzle together making a well made piece of wearable jewelry that I know will last a long time.

Which items are your best sellers? I think the large wire wrapped bracelets, because of the beads I use they end up pretty expensive. They take longer to sell but from what I hear from my customers, they love them. And the seed bead pendants I make.

How do you market your products? I have been advertising on many handmade or associated sites. I have also opened new shops on four other selling sites. I don't think I can actually answer the marketing question right now.

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? II do like the fact that it's juried. I'm not sure if I do have a favorite feature, I'm still getting to know the site.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Educate yourself about your art or craft, take classes, read books, know the history. Do not jump in blind without sound business advise and knowledge.

Featured Artisan Glasstastic Treasures

2008-12-21T04:30:00.000-08:00

GlasstasticTreasures

Unique lampwork beads, jewelry, stained and fused glass.A little fun, a little whimsy, a lot of handmade happiness!

Where are you located? Lake Nebagamon Wisconsin. Just minutes south of Lake Superior.
How long have you been creating handmade items? Oh, my. Forever! My mother still has a green and teal plate I made in grade school, I colored it with markers! I love it all, and I want to do it all. I take after my dad, by the way. LOL My mom agrees.

What type of products do you offer? I started my glass addiction with stained glass. I am addicted to lampwork bead making. I'm happiest when I'm at my torch. With the lampworking came a need for display, so I make jewelry also. I do a little fused glass. But my kiln is usually full of beads, so I'll just have to get another kiln for fusing!

How did you decide on your company’s name? Well, it took a lot of clever thinking. But I wanted it to specify "glass", and how wonderful it is, and that it is something that can always be treasured. And there you have it, Glasstastic Treasures.

What is your motivation? Everything. I look at something and wonder, hmm, can I wind glass around a mandrel and make it look like that? How would that look as a bead? I wonder if I can do that? And my customers. I recently had a friend ask me to make her a Goddess bead, which I'd never made before. She was with me the whole way through, from my first bead to the ones I just sent her. She was inspiring, and very encouraging. But most of all, she was so thrilled with what she received. A customer's happiness is always motivating.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? The feeling of satisfaction and accomplishement. But more then that, is the warm feeling when someone tells you how much they love what they've just received. A treasure! lol

Which items are your best sellers? Anything that's cute, it changes all the time: Mummies at Halloween. Snowmen at Christmas. Bugs and butterflies in the summer. And FISH!
How do you market your products? Craft sales are a big help. But mostly through the forums. I also have a blog, a free website, and just started with Project Wonderful. But recently, word of mouth. Yay!

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? I love the prefilled fields for listing items. And being able to choose which items show up on the front page, and the newsletter feature. What I would like to see is the ability to create more then one prefilled template.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? The one thing I've learned is to take other's advice in stride. I have found that when someone tells me I should do this or do that, and then I do it, it never works for me. Find your own style with everything, from photos to pricing! An example is a book I bought on selling jewelry. The seasoned seller said to NOT bombard a person as soon as they stop by your craft table. I found that if I don't grab their attention immediately with what they are looking at and how it's made, they simply walk away. So for me, a greeting and a little description on how I lampwork builds an interest and appreciation in my craft. And a sale!

Featured Artisan KJM Silks

2008-12-20T04:30:00.000-08:00

KJM Silks

Art to wear.

Where are you located? Coral Gables, FL

How long have you been creating handmade items? I've been making handmade items all my life! The first things I remember are paper rings I made for my mother for Christmas, and a hand-sewn baby romper I made when I was about 6. The romper was for my youngest sister, born when I was six. I made it by sewing together fabric squares by hand - some of the stitches were pretty big and let's just say, there was good air circulation! My mother wrestled the baby into it just long enough for a photo op, and then put it away for posterity. I studied drawing and painting in high school and college, and ended up with a degree in painting. I began silk painting after the birth of my first child, when it became impossible to continue with oil painting, and that brings us up-to-date!

What type of products do you offer? I hand-paint and hand-dye silks: silk scarves, neckties, and pillows.

How did you decide on your company’s name? My name is a combination of my initials and what I do.

What is your motivation? I love art and I love to create. A day without creating is like a day without sunshine.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I love the fact that handmade items can be completely unique. If I paint a scribble scarf, there will never be another exactly like it. I love different!

Which items are your best sellers? My best sellers are my scribble scarves and neckties. I guess everyone loves scribbling!

How do you market your products? I have to admit that marketing is not my strong point. I sell my scarves online, and at some local gift shops. I have contributed to the Sampler, and I try to wear my products as much as possible, but I haven't used print or online advertising.

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? I love the variety and quality of all the wonderful handmade products. I love seeing the new products showing up on the front page. i can't think of anything I want to change.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Keep making stuff!

Featured Artisan CD Childs

2008-12-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

CD Childs

I live to create. If I'm not creating then I'm not living.

Where are you located? In a small town called Lorena, Texas

How long have you been creating handmade items? I started painting at the age of 12. Ever since then I can't remember a time that I was not creating something. I became a stained glass artist over eight years ago and opened my own business. However I enjoy making the smaller items that I list here on Handmade Fuzion.

What type of products do you offer? I offer stained glass pendants made from different items like filigree, watch parts and small flowers. Really anything that will fit under glass. I also love to fire up my kiln and melt wine bottles into cheese trays.

How did you decide on your company’s name? My company name is actually the initials of my real name. I wanted people to know me as CDChilds.

What is your motivation? Everything is my motivation. My surroundings, my friends, my family and my pets all have a very important role in my creativity process.

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? I truly love being my own boss. It allows me to stay home with my son Gage. He is a special child with who has a blood disorder called Aplastic Anemia. I love the fact that if I need to take a day off I can do so without having to answer to someone else or using my vacation time.

Which items are your best sellers? Currently my best sellers are my wine bottle cheese trays and my filigree leaf pendants.

How do you market your products? I have a blog http://designsbycdchilds.blogspot.com/ and I recently joined Twitter http://twitter.com/CDChilds and I also advertise with Project Wonderful. However my main form of advertising is by word of mouth and repeat customers.

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? I love how we can run our own networking right from the Handmade Fuzion site. I'm also very impressed how the administrative respond to all of our many questions. They are very on top of keeping Handmade Fuzion running smoothly.

Do you have any advice for other artisans? I think one of the most important tools for selling your craft is "great" pictures. You must have great pictures for your customers to be able to really get a feel for what they may purchase. Also I think your description should leave nothing to be desired. Explain and describe every detail in such a way that the customer must buy your product.

Featured Artisan KJ Beads

2008-12-18T07:33:00.000-08:00

The Essential Elements by KJBeads

Handcrafted, often one of a kind jewelry
with a focus on handmade glass beads

Where are you located? On the edge. The edge of Chicago that is, in Niles , Illinois

How long have you been creating handmade items? My entire life. I have done cross stitching, rug hooking, crochet, macramé and other assorted crafts as a child. I think maybe my mother had that "idle hands, idle mind" thing going on. Either that, or she was trying desperately to raise five non-criminals and keeping me busy was part of her plan. Before jewelry, I was very into stamp art. I have now been creating jewelry for almost 11 years, however, I do believe my 2 boys will always be my greatest creation.

What type of products do you offer? I make earrings, necklaces, bracelets and anklets. If I can squeeze in some metalsmithing classes, I may add rings to that list. Most items are made using handmade lampwork or handmade venetian glass. You will also find, pearls, semi-precious stones and other beads. Again, as a stay at home mom, I try to make pieces that are affordable, yet unique. Things I would be willing to spend money on and would wear myself.

How did you decide on your company’s name? I was trying to incorporate the use of materials (stones, silver, etc) with the concept of jewelry being the thing that pulls a whole outfit together. After all, life is all about the accessories.

What is your motivation? I started with a hobby and grew into a business. Having something that is completely my own is wonderful. My escape from motherhood/homemaking and stress. Working for that hot tub never hurt either. 11 years and I'm still working on it. Of course, new furniture, car repairs and music lessons may have something to do with that. Truthfully, the materials motivate me. My weaknesses are glass, pottery and jewelry. To be able to use all three in my work is inspiring in itself. Ask my husband and you'll probably get an answer more along the lines of an excuse to feed a bead fetish. It is a compulsion!

What do you enjoy most about creating handmade items? The personal connection with the customer. Knowing people appreciate my work and know I stand behind it. Replacing that one lost earring or making the perfect piece for a prom or wedding is so satisfying. I love seeing that smile when I get it just right for someone. I have really embraced the whole "Buy Handmade" concept. Support independent business people and artists versus the big box giants is very satisfying.

Which items are your best sellers? Earrings are by far the biggest sellers, though you never know what will be the "hot" item from show to show. I do know the unique, handmade glass beads will always be popular.

How do you market your products? I have a mailing list of over 200 people. In an effort to go "green", I am trying to do more on line inviting and announcements. I have been placing more on line ads and cross promoting my shows with my on line ventures. I have a blog that captures my spirit and promotes other handmade artists in addition to my own work also.

What are your favorite features on Handmade Fuzion? I don't know that I have a favorite feature, per sea, but I really appreciate the variety and randomness of front page items. Once I familiarized myself with the navigation of the site, I was much more comfortable. If I could wish for anything it would be the continued improvement of the existing features. I find shoppers to be completely visual beings. I would like the visual aspect of listings and searches to continue to expand

Do you have any advice for other artisans? Never stop asking questions, trying new things and watching/learning. I am completely self taught, thus dependant on the advice of others. I try to pass it on every chance I get. Stick with it and have a positive attitude. The minute you think you know it all, have reached perfection or have nothing left to learn, it's over. Never stop pushing the limits.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 25

2008-12-12T04:00:00.000-08:00

We are proud to present our final FuZion Finds of 2008. We will now begin to feature artisans from handmade fuzion and an upcoming BLOG CONTEST!!!
We hope that you've enjoyed our picks and they've helped in your decision to buy handmade for the holidays.

Todays finds:

Iridescent Purple Peyote Bracelet - This peyote bracelet is beadwoven with beautiful, tiny Japanese seed beads in iridescent purple. Smaller seed beads are woven along the edges to give this bracelet a nice delicate frame. The closure is by a brass ornamented box clasp.

Permanent Origami Bride and Groom Earrings on Wedding day - The dresses are white with sparkles. They are hard to photograph in a manner that shows the details and keeps them looking white.Each tiny garment has been made permanent and durable with many layers of polymer sealant.They are very light and comfortable to wear.Each tiny dress is 1 and 1/8 inches tall and the fullest part of the skirt is also 1 and 1/8 inches.

Country Dogs- PRINT 8 x 10" - This eclectic trio of dogs are having a country music hoe-down! The black poodle is on fiddle; the bloodhound is on banjo and the Alaskan Malamute is on guitar; Yee-haw!This is a print from my original painting; "Dog Hoe-Down".It was printed by my Epson R1800 printer on 8.5 x 11" Epson Ultra Premium Matte Paper . This acid-free 100% paper is lovely and enhances the vibrant colors of this print. I have signed and dated it in pencil beside the image.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 24

2008-12-11T05:49:00.000-08:00

As FuZion Finds winds down we want to make sure we've given a fair chance to all our artisans, but we also realize this will not be possible in this short amount of time. After we have our Featured Artisan segment we will go back to featuring items and if anyone wasn't featured this time around we encourage you to contact us so we can get the good word out there on the blogs for you.

Todays Finds are:

Laminated Mature Mini Notes for obnoxious drivers and bad parking! - Never have that snappy remark available at just the right moment? Don't suffer delayed comeback again! This set of eight mini notes (2 of each design shown) are perfect for those times in your life when an asshole is simply unavoidable. Just put it on their windshield, desk, or even drop it on their lap. The note will do the talking for you!No no, don't thank me, I'm just doing my job.

FIBER BEAD - We outclass those other beads by a mile. Look at our feathery, sparkly selves. Tell her we need a mirror in our drawer. This is a set of 9 fiber beads in red and black with flecks of gold peeking out everywhere! These beads ARE feathery looking and might remind you of a cocoon because of the end I start on. IF you want to it can be snipped off without effect. I left it because I think it looks very cool.

My Mother's Heart - Earrings - I lost my mother in 2003 to heart disease. I miss her so much, especially this time of year. I have named these earrings to honor her memory and the memory of all the mothers who have been lost to heart disease.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 23

2008-12-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

Todays Finds brings us only 2 posts away from our final FuZion Finds for the year. We've enjoyed bringing you amazing creations from our talented artisans, but it's time to move on and meet some of the amazing people behind the art. Our 25th Daily pick will be our last for the year.

Without any further delay our Fabulous Finds:

Four Christmas Cards - These cards are simple, but really pretty. I bought the tags that are on the front from an Etsy seller, then put them on these cards. Perfect for the holidays!
The cards measure 5.5" by 4" and come with envelopes. The insides are blank for your personal message.

Mineral Makeup Starter Kit - This seven-piece starter kit is a fabulous way to introduce yourself to mineral makeup. It's packed with everything you need to achieve a radiant, flawless-looking face, including an instructional CD that explains precisely how to apply each product!♦ 30 Gram Jar Foundation (choose from color chart)♦ 10 Gram Jar Blush (choose from color chart)♦ 10 gram Jar Bronzer OR Glow Powder (choose ONE)♦ 30 Gram Jar Clear Setting Powder♦ Makeup Case♦ All Purpose VEGAN Face Brush (Handle color may vary) ♦ Mineral Makeup 101 Instructional CD

Hot Pink Skulls Baby Burp Blankie - This is a super cool Hot Pink Skull burp blankie with tags. Made from high quality cotton fabric, chenille, minkie and jumbo ric rack. These are perfect stylish burp cloths that grow with your baby into a favorite blankie to tow around town. Four triple sewn tags are safe and fun for your little one.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 22

2008-12-09T11:47:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay in posts. Janice had difficulty with her internet connection. What a mess.

We have some beautiful finds for today!!! Perfect for gift giving and just in time for the holiday!

Scented Strawberry Ice Cream Scoop Charm - Finally...entirely guilt free ice cream is here! One super realistic scoop of strawberry ice cream in a fluted ceramic bowl. This charm hangs by a sterling silver jump ring. Soooo cute. Scent - Strawberry Ice Cream. All items can be unscented as well.

Square Effects - Classic Retro circles black and gray necklace and earrings - The weather may be turning colder in the northern hemisphere, but you can still heat up the night with this funky, retro necklace and earrings set.The necklace features faceted round crystal beads of black and true grey as well as smooth round and coin-shaped black glass beads interspersed with solid silver twisted rope rings. At a luxurious 26" (66cm) finished length, this necklace is one continuous circle with no beginning or end. This one slips easily over your head to dress up that little black dress or bring a little bit of class to jeans and a t-shirt.

Lady Snowman Lampwork Bead Pendant/Charm - This Ms. Snowman lampwork bead pendant was handmade by me, Amy, in my home studio. It measures approx 2 inches or 52mm long. It has sterling silver findings, including a lobster claw so that it may be clipped on to many things in addition to being a pendant.I use Moretti, Vetrofond, Lauscha, Bullseye, and Reichenbach glass types. My beads are kiln annealed for strength and durability. Even though they are properly annealed, it is still glass and needs proper care especially when there are ears, appendages, petals, etc.

HANDMADE FUZION CONTEST WINNERS HERE!!!

2008-12-08T09:44:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!!!

1^st place - $25.00 Cash - The Loft Lady
2^nd place - $10.00 Credit to your Handmade FuZion Account - Archaic Design
3^rd place - Candy Gift Box (Donated by Nuts4Candy) - Skin Essentials

Stay Tuned for Our Next Exciting Handmade FuZion Contest

Coming Soon!

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 21

2008-12-06T04:00:00.000-08:00

Although we enjoy blogging about items that we adore, we will be discontinuing the featured items after the 25th Daily Pick comes out.

We are doing this to make room for a Full Featured Artisan Interview!

Today's Fabulous Finds are:

Exotic Breeze Hydrating Body Scrub - Submerge yourself in the center of an island orchard with 360 Skin Care’s Exotic Breeze Hydrating Body Scrub. Moisturize dry weather beaten skin and maintain your skin’s elasticity with nutrients found in Apple extract. Apples are also a natural source of Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which peel away old layers of dead skin and reveal fresh skin cells. Conditon your skin with rich oils to improve your skin’s appearance while restoring youth and radiance to the largest organ on your body, your skin.

Choose Your Initial Assorted Mix of Handpainted Monogrammed Ceramic Tile Pendant Necklaces - This listing is for ONE handpainted pendant in your choice of initial and design. Each pendant was handpainted on a 1" ceramic tile using bright fun colors in patterns that will be sure to get noticed! Perfect for gift giving or treat yourself to a little extra something special!Several layers of sealer have been applied for protection and fabulous glass-like shine!!! A sterling silver plated bail has been attached to the back and will come complete with a 16" ribbon with a lobster claw clasp in your choice of black, white, hot pink, light pink, light lime, yellow, and chocolate.

Wonderland Shea Butter Cold Process Soap - When I made this soap, I wanted to encompass all the flavors of the holidays, and then came upon Peppermint and Fir Needle essential oils. These two oils, when combined, make one heavenly bar of soap. The scent reminds me of candy canes on a christmas tree...a real christmas tree..not a plastic one, mind you! Dense rich creamy lather here!

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 20

2008-12-05T04:30:00.000-08:00

The selection just gets better everyday! Stop by and take a peek at these beautiful handmade items that will make someone very happy for the holiday!

My Back Yard - This piece was inspired by our lake-side home in north Alabama...Crystal clear blue water.Green grass on the bank.Little lizards running around.Mossy rocks at the waters edge.Bubbles rising from fish deep below the surface.Everything that makes it hard to come in from the porch has been fused into this 5" sushi-style plate.

Sleep Baby! Doggies Chenille Baby Blanket - Sleep Baby! Chenille Baby Blanket...Babies feel warm and loved when wrapped in this wonderful baby blanket! It makes a great gift for winter babies! It measures 23 X 30 inches making it great for keeping baby warm in the stroller, car seat or while at home this winter. It also makes a great tummy time floor blanket and can double as a changing pad when needed.This chenille baby blanket is super soft and extra warm. It is made with Heather Ross designer cotton fabric and high-quality, durable cotton chenille. This blanket will last forever and it'll get softer and softer with every wash.

Retro Far Out Large Flat bottom zipper pouch - A retro look designer fabric!!!A new style coin purse/zipper pouch that has a flat bottom so it can stand on its own. Made with this beautiful designer fabric that I bat quilt interfacing for extra strength yet still soft and comfortable to use, and a zipper close for extra security. This zipper pouch has so many wonderful uses. Great as a coin purse, small cosmetic case, or even your ipod or ditigal camera case.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 19

2008-12-04T04:45:00.000-08:00

Todays finds are just beautiful. Take a moment and enjoy the view of these amazing handmade items while perhaps sipping some tea or hot cocoa.

Red Glass with Black Floral Etching - This choker/necklace is to die for!This choker/necklace consists of gorgeous 8mm x 20mm rectangular dark red glass beads with floral etching that's enhanced with black on BOTH sides. The dark red glass beads are separated by Swarovski 4mm bicone crystals in hematite (shimmery black) and Swarovski 4mm crystal pearls in white.

Personalized Sterling Silver Affirmation Pendant - I make these pendants by first carefully handwriting your chosen word in sterling silver wire, then creating a thick gauge sterling wire frame to set it in. I then burnish and harden the piece for durability and shine. The size of your pendant will vary based on the number of letters, Peace as shown is about 1 inch.These are made to order with whatever word or name you would like, up to 10 letters.

Butterfly Blues Ring - A fine silver (.999) Butterfly Ring embellished with vibrant glass enamels. The band on this ring has a whimsical botanical design and measures 5/8 in width. The rectangular face of the ring is 5/8 x 7/8 of an inch. The ring pictured here is a size 8 1/2 but can be custom made to your size. The design and color will vary for custom orders.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 18

2008-12-03T05:45:00.000-08:00

As we get closer to the holidays it becomes more and more exciting to select these items for you. We hope you enjoy this gift guide service we're providing. Handmade FuZion has so many fantastic artisans and amazing items listed. We are proud to bring these items to you today!

Will you be my fairy princess? - A colorful storybook scene has been woodburned on this arched door topper!Prince Charming offers a crown to the lovely Princess with all the tiny forest people gathered around them. The Prince wears his best blue robe to make his proposal. The Princess sits atop a mushroom with a sweet expression. Her long lavender gown and accessories compliment her long flowing hair.

Waverunner Cuffs - If you're familiar with my overall body of work, then you know how much I love big cuffs! But every now and then two small ones can serve the same purpose. These two brass mini waverunners were made by me and my trusty hydraulic press. They each measure about 1/2 wide.

Dance of Light II - Dance of Light II exemplifies what the Dance of Light series creations seeks to express. Dance of Light curves and flows with the energy of graceful movement, illuminated.Light sculpture is created by a process of natural flexible wood reed shaped and glued into a form with a white tissue papier mache process applied over it in layers. A small candelabra light fixture is mounted inside. Each light sculpture is one of a kind and no two light sculptures ever seem to go together the same way, including the mounting of the light inside.

CASH FOR THE HOLIDAYS! CONTEST UPDATE!

2008-12-03T05:43:00.000-08:00

We are so very excited!!! We are only 900 virtual tickets away from our goal and DOUBLING the prizes to our lucky winners!

Time to get excited! We are amazed that we have over 9,100 virtual tickets in the pot with still 4 days to go!!! Remember the highest points are for referrals and purchases and WHEN we reach 10,000 virtual tickets we are DOUBLING the Prizes!!! We love contests like this because you are awarded tickets just for building your business! It's a win-win situation.

In the lead for the Cash prize is - The Lofty Lady, with Cilla Rose closing in on 2nd place and Skin Essentials in 3rd place. There is still time in the contest for anyone to step up their game and WIN!!!

Encourage your friends and family to stop by http://www.handmadefuzion.com/ for a beautiful showcase of handmade items!

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 17

2008-12-01T05:47:00.000-08:00

***CYBER MONDAY***

Indulge yourself in a wonderland of handmade items that are sure to delight your family and friends! Interact with your artisan today and get that perfect gift!

FuZion Finds today are:

Adorable handknit Red Hat - This adorable hat will be the perfect gift for your special little Princess. She will look so cute and be so warm too. Hand Knit by me using knitting needles, with a nice fold-up brim and 5 soft cables that run from brim to crown.

Peppermint Loofa Soap - Use this soap to really scrub those areas with dry skin - great for your feet, but can be used anywhere. Use this soap on your feet and follow with our rich shea butter foot cream. You won't be disappointed.

Snow Bear Plush - Snow Bear is here just in time for the holidays and is ready to play! His arms are ready for lots of cuddles and he sits up on his own pretty well for all kinds of imaginative play. He has a super round belly and blue eyes that have been hand sewn, so that there are no parts to fall off. He has been made with the utmost attention to detail and highest quality, so he could be treasured by bear lover's of any age.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 16

2008-11-30T05:20:00.000-08:00

I just watched in awe the new category scroller on Handmade FuZion and thought... how much easier it will be to pick the FuZion Finds!!

Here they are:

Modern Pipe Table - This great table can also be used as a bench in the right setting. it is made from steel pipes hand cut and welded. it stands around 18 inches tall, and is 3 feet wide. it is finished with a clear coat to prevent rusting. This table is custom made and will be made when it is orderd.

Love Wraparound Explosion Scrapbook Album Paper Piecing - ''Always Forever''Scrapbook Explosion Wraparound BoxA beautiful album or gift for that special person in your life. The album will hold approximately 24 photos. Your photos will slide nicely under the ribbons on the photo mats.

Cocktail Girl - Set of 4 - These adorable coasters are trendy, chic and F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S! They make the perfect gift for the ever-so classy gal pal.... or simply use them as table decor... they'll absolutely WOW everyone.Each coaster is made with a snow white ceramic tile measuring 4.25" X 4.25". Each background is layered with a fabulous Cilla Rose image. They're so chic... you'll want them all. **SET includes 4 coasters.

Make Way for Big Renovations to Handmade FuZion

2008-11-30T04:31:00.000-08:00

Our amazing programmer has given us an early christmas present!!!! We have a fabulous new layout for our category pages WITH a gorgeous category featured scroller that will display all the category featured items!!! This makes shopping a dream!!! I was in awe this morning just starring at all the gorgeous items scrolling by. Better than TV anyday! I'd be there all day but we have to get the Gift Guide items picked out... LOL

The subcategories are right up at the top and the artisan stores for that category are nicely placed below that. Stores are listed with the highest number of items at the top of the list.

Stop by and take a look... it's just in time for Cyber Monday!!!!! Pick a Category :)

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 15

2008-11-28T06:55:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving! We had quite an adventure with 31 people, a football game (with some out of shape husbands) a few injuries and an 18th birthday party!!!

For those of you, who like us are home for Black Friday, take a peek at these Fabulous FuZion Finds.

Hospital Take-Out® One Baby to Go™ - custom set Your Choice "Take-Out" set....Just pick the fabric. I can make this set in just about any of the fabrics in my shop. 0-3 months
8-12 lbs
Gift Set includes:
~Appliqued Carters Onesie 0-3mo
~Appliqued Knot Hat 0-3mo
~Little Baby Bib (tm)
~Mop it Up! Burp & Bum Rag (tm)

Fly Into The Sun - 36" x 24" birds trees surreal abstract original painting -
Title: Fly Into The Sun Total size = 36" x 24" x 3/4" thick acrylic painting on two 18" x 24" x 3/4" thick stretched canvases. Canvases are back stapled (smooth, staple free sides - no framing required unless desired)

Cafe Brown Slouchy Beanie Dreadlock Hippie tam hat handmade in crochet - Taupe Brown Faux (Fake) Mohair (also called cafe brown)...vegan suitable
Thick UNISEX slouchy beanie tam in a chunky acrylic soft yarn.
I have used the slightly longer beanie style with a slouch in the back and close weave to give this hat stability and flair, it's warm and yet suitable to wear all year around on cooler days.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 14

2008-11-26T05:43:00.000-08:00

This is a joy for us to post these beautiful finds! There are so many amazing artists out there and we are proud that they have decided to call Handmade FuZion their home.

Today's picks:

5 Piece Stack Jar Mineral Makeup Collection - Pick any 5 colors in my mineral makeup line. All are full size, 5 gram stacked jars with sifter inserts.Mix your colors together to get even more shades.All natural ingredients. Titanium-free. Vegan

Gingerbread CakeCup - LIMITED TIME - This is my favorite time of the year and baking gingerbread *everything* is my favorite way to celebrate. This Gingerbread CakeCup is perfect for the real gingerbread aficionado. This is true gingerbread made with full flavor molasses and loaded up with spices including nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and, of course, ginger. It is filled and topped with creamy vanilla buttercream frosting and sprinkled with ground cinnamon. *This CakeCup flavor is seasonal and will be available only for a limited time*

Ouchy Eater Monster Boo Boo Pack - Ouchy Eaters ©™ 2008 Totally Kid Inspired...Wow...I would have never realized how many boo boos a little kid, especially a rambunctious little boy could get! My little one is on the go pretty much every minute his little feet are on the floor and with that come lots of ouchies. He really dindn't care for the little boo boo pack that I had so I decided to create something fun to help take away those ouchies

Double Your Holiday Cash!!! Update!

2008-11-26T05:36:00.000-08:00

With 11 days left to our contest we are over 8,000 virtual tickets!!! We have no doubt with the holiday purchasing and referrals that we will be at our goal of 10,000!!! This is very great news for our artisans because someone will walk away with a $50 cash prize (through Paypal) and others will qualify for double the other prizes.

Encourage your friends and family to stop by www.handmadefuzion.com for black friday sales!

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 13

2008-11-25T06:22:00.000-08:00

Our Finds today are from these talented artisans:

Chainmaille Choker With Crystal Pendant - I just love this necklace. I hate parting with it. It's made from very shiny aluminum rings. It looks like fine silver but you don't have to polish it and it is far lighter weight for comfort. There is no need to polish it like you would have to with sterling silver. And, the best part is that it's much more affordable than silver.

The design came out of my head and not out of a book or off of a chain maille website so you'll have a one of a kind piece!

Tigerlily Pendant - This is an eyecatching pendant featuring a gorgeous orange tigerlily on a chocolate background.
Each pendant is made from polymer clay which I roll out, cut, bake and sand. The image is transferred to the clay prior to baking. Coated with a thick protective gloss which gives it an amazing glass-like shine. Water resistant but not waterproof. Avoid moisture when possible.
Measures 1.25" across but can be made in any size at all. Just ask! :)
I will have various necklaces available in my shop asap. Black leather cord, black and brown suede as well as silver ballchain.

Best Ever Salad and Pasta Tongs - Made with poplar (a sustainable wood), sanded smooth to perfection and cured with an edible oil (olive.) Glued with Welbond Vegan All-purpose glue.

Recommended to hand wash only. If brushed with olive or vegetable oil every couple months these will be in great condition for years!

Seriously the best salad tong you can imagine. I have tossed every other set I've own. Great for mixing and serving, you will want to give these to all your friends and family =)

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 12

2008-11-24T04:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday! With our busy and festive holiday week don't forget that you can shop handmade online with no hassles or lines. Browse our beautiful selection of talented artisans and snuggle up with a hot cup of cocoa. We've got amazing gifts for everyone on your list!

Tuxedo (taupe) Shoulderbag - Black Bags: Tuxedo (taupe) ShoulderbagGetting back to classics.Features:Dimensions: 12"W, 8.5"H, 3"DExterior: 100% taupe cotton/100% black cotton canvasInterior: 100% black cotton canvasThree exterior pocketsThree interior pocketsNickel magnetic snap closureHanging key fobAdjustable shoulder strap (31"-52") Reinforced flat bottom

CUSTOM - Gemstone Tree Ornament and Hook - This wire gemstone tree is made with genuine semi-precious stones securely attacted to silver or gold wire. The tree rests on a pool of resin and tumbled gemstones and placed inside a 4" round ornament ball. Hanging and trim ribbon will match your choice of silver or gold wire. No two trees are exactly alike. Ornament comes in a clear acrylic box.Comes with decorative display hook.

5 in. Pumpkin Pie Candle - Our 5" pie candles look and smell so real you'll want to eat it (Please don't though - they don't taste good).Each of our pie candles is handmade and hand poured. We top the crust with a touch of real cinnamon to add to the look.

Double Your Holiday Cash!!! Update

2008-11-22T16:20:00.000-08:00

Time to get excited! We are amazed that we have over 7,100 virtual tickets in the pot with still 2 weeks to go!!!

Remember the highest points are for referrals and purchases and if we reach 10,000 virtual tickets we are DOUBLING the Prizes!!!

We love contests like this because you are awarded tickets just for building your business! It's a win-win situation.

In the lead for the Cash prize is - The Lofty Lady, with The Soap Buffet closing in on 2nd place and Cilla Rose in 3rd place. It's still early in the contest for anyone to step up their game and WIN!!!

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 11

2008-11-22T12:18:00.000-08:00

As we approach black friday we would like to remind you to "BUY HANDMADE"! We found these beautiful items on Handmade FuZion

Nativity Scene - Hand crafted from oak and pine this nativity is a great addition to your home Christmas decorations or as a gift to a loved one that will keep on giving every Christmas holiday. The stable is 8"H x 9"W x 4.5"D and crafted from oak ply with a pine base and window frames. The larger figures are 5" tall and all figures are 3/4" thick oak. The set is finished with clear polyurethane for protection and durability. This Nativity could easily become a family heirloom.

HOLLY BERRY LAMPWORK NECKLACE - Stand out at your holiday parties with this unique one of a kind necklace. You'll be sure to get a ton of envious compliments, stares, ooos and ahhs. Look beautiful, feel great!

Christmas Lavender Sachets - For your consideration are for 4 beautiful 4x4inch lavender sachets, in a lovely Christmas print fabric. Each has a grosgrain ribbon for hanging. I am offering them at a special sale price just in time for the holidays. Very fragrant all natural English Lavender Flowers and Buds, "Extra" grade grown in the Provence region of France, near Montbrun Les Bains, France in the hilly area between the French Riviera (La Cote d'Azur) and the French Alps.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 10

2008-11-21T07:31:00.001-08:00

Todays finds brings us items from these talented artisans!

Dogwood Blossom and Leaf - fabricated using traditional techniques including engraving, hand piercing, chasing and oxidation. Fabricated using copper. Chain is hand soldered and forged copper with a black oxidized finish that is lightly steel brushed to let the warm glow of the copper show through. Dogwood blossom is hand pierced with lightly engraved petals and oxidized finish.

Basic Leather Journal with Free Monogramming - When I'm crafting journals, I strive to make them beautiful and functional. I try to keep in mind that the most important part of the journal isn't the beautiful cover or the fanciest closure; it's what you put inside that really matters! This basic journal is made with precisely that thought in mind. It is simple, basic, beautiful, and I'm really excited to be presenting it to you!

Rockin Dinosaur in minky fabric -
This listing is for a Rockin Dino Plush - a plesiosaur - to be exact! I created this from a picture a customer sent to me and the dino turned out so cute I thought he should be available to everyone! The eyes are hand sewn in the anime style, he is made of the ultra-soft minky fabric, with teeth made of fleece (so they don't fray!). This Rockin Dino can go in the washing machine and dryer when play time get messy and is super nice to cuddle as well as roar. At 16" long, from his nose to the tip of his tail, he's a great size to play with and tote around.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 9

2008-11-20T05:55:00.000-08:00

Look what we've found today!

Deerheart Choker - This gorgeous 1.25" x.75" heart shaped kiln-fired heart shaped focal is embellished at each side by firepolished chocolate Czech glass 8mm beads on a 16" copper link chain with lobster clasp.

Shades of olive, cornflower and brown dance across this fall weather friendly focal.

Red & Green Dancing Dish - This pink polka-dot & striped pitcher measures about 4½" tall and 5-6" across at the petals. Bright lime green & red accented with lots of black & white stripe & dots, it is fired with non-toxic glazes making it safe for food (or soap, jewelry, a candle, etc).
We have them in every room of the house.

HUGS and KISSES... PLAY to LEARN QUILT - This 13" X 13" visually stimulating quilt excites newborns with its bright colored shapes and bold lines. Playing with the ten 4" X 4" mini quilts aids in small motor movement and dexterity. No attachments that an infant could swallow.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 8

2008-11-19T07:51:00.000-08:00

Todays beautiful Finds are:

Cute Little Monkey Necklace - This Monkey looks like he is going to jump out at you. This is a custom designed pendant hand made by me. It consists of a circular wooden pendant decoupaged with pink paper with a monkey, and then it is sealed with a thick coat of resin. The necklace itself is made up of pink organza ribbon, and tan verigated yarn. All components are sterling silver plated, it measures 16".

Can We Play Now, Please? - Reproduced from my original watercolor on Yupo Painting. 5 x 7 inches image size. Yupo is a synthetic watercolor paper made out of plastic. The paint slides across the surface giving it it's unique look. Printed using Kodak's pigmented inkset onto Kodak's ultra premium photo paper. The glossy photo paper mimics the original painting beautifully. Image size 5x7 inches. Paper size 8.5 x 11 inches.

Pumpkin Pie Spice Shea Butter Cold Process Soap - Begin the season with a great soap made from all skin loving ingredients. Pumpkin pulp was added to this soap to give you a truly autumnal feel. Pumpkin Pie Spice fragrance oil rounds out this lathering bar of skin goodness with its spices of cinnamon, cloves, vanilla..just to name a few! No colorant was added.
You will get one 5-5.5 ounce bar

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 7

2008-11-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

Checkout todays Fabulous Finds!

12 x 3D Butterflies in mixed colours - In this pack you will recieve 12 Butterflies in this style (see pictures)
Sizes of butterflies vary depending on design. Approx 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches. Our butterflies come in up to 8 solid colours and a mix of rainbow in some species.These 3D Transparent Butterflies will decorate your home/office or can be used in many crafts as a supply to enhance your work. Simply attach sticky dot, bend wings and you are ready to go.

Black and White Overskirt Dress - 25% OFF
Using a black and white batik swirl print, your little one will feel like collecting flowers in the garden using her overskirt. The batik is a soft cotton and the overskirt made with a delicate eyelet fabric. Also perfect for the afternoon tea party, pair it with one of your fancy hats!

Black Lace woodburned box - Sensuous and divine! This wooden box is completely covered with a sexy black lace pattern for a distinctive feminine style. The shutes and blooms fill the entire surface with excitement and intrigue. Thousands of delicate hot touches of the woodburning iron, and hours of dedication went into the creation of The Black Lace Box. Lovingly handmade and heartfelt! The interior has been painted black and silky black satin covers the lid and bottom. A tight fitting lid keeps your treasures safe. 6" w X 4" d X 3" tall

Double Your Holiday Cash!!!

2008-11-18T05:58:00.000-08:00

Contest update: We have over 5,300 virtual tickets in the pot!!! Since we are doing such a great job, we believe that we can reach 10,000!!! If we reach 10,000 virtual tickets by Dec 7th then we decided we will DOUBLE the prizes!!!! That means $50.00 in cash (through Paypal) and $20.00 in your Handmade FuZion account and 2 boxes of candy from Nuts4Candy!!!

Hint... the highest points are for purchases and referrals :)

Now lets go get those prizes!!!

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 6

2008-11-17T04:09:00.000-08:00

More awesome news today!!! Our most wonderful programmer Jose has spent countless hours working with us to create a new "Item Page" layout for us. We didn't want it crowded but we wanted the information easily seen. His amazing patience and hard work has paid off. We should have a new Item Layout by tomorrow at the latest!!! It will have more information about the seller and also a "Store Block" right in the listing for viewers to search their store and easily link to their policies. Don't miss this new feature.... it's really amazing!

We are always so impressed when we browse for the FuZion Finds....what amazing talent we have on handmade fuzion!!!

Here are todays picks:

Red Velvet Reversable Dog Dress - This is a red velvet dress with a very high quality luxurious red velvet skirt and a fine velvety corduroy bodice. At the waist is a matching velvet bow with a sparkling crystal button. This is the ultimate formal party dress!That's not all! On the reverse is a Holiday dress with a fabric that has tiny mistletoe with 3 crystal mistletoe down the front of the bodice. At the waist is a red satin sash with 2 red satin bows that have 3 green beads in each center.2 dresses in one. Attaches with velcro tabs at the neck and chest.I can custom fit for your pooch.

Live Laugh Love - Swirling Wispy Tree Branch with Flowers - Vinyl Wall Decals - Your Choice of Color - This is our famous Dali branch, but with a twist! A customer of ours asked if we could add in the words Live Love and Laugh and this is what we came up with!This pretty tree branch measures approximately 22" high by 64" wide. It's shown here in Chocolate Brown, Beige and Royal Blue, and is available in all of our colors.

Suga Smakk Lip Scrub - Scrub Away Your Chapped Blues! Refreshing scent of sweet orange with a tantalizing hint of vanilla! No better way to soften up your kisser! Your loved one will thank you!5 gram jar of tasty goodness - a little goes a long, long way! Made from organic raw sugar, shea butter, sunflower oil with vitamin e, scent.Caution: may tempt you to eat it, but please refrain...

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 5

2008-11-15T05:26:00.000-08:00

We found these beautiful handmade items today.

Abstract Goddess Form Lampwork Bead - Reminiscent of a partially finished museum marble carving, this lampwork bead could have a hidden history just as intriguing. Partially sculpted, the bottom half nicely rounded and shaped, the top half still a work in progress.

C at Stealing Cookies- PRINT 6 x 8" - Junior is trying to snatch more of his favorite catnip infused cookies before his mom notices. Unfortunately, it looks like he is busted! This is a print of my original painting "Stealing Cookies". The image is 6 x 8" with a white border for framing. It was printed by my Epson R1800 printer on 8.5 x 11" Epson Ultra Premium Matte Paper . This acid-free paper is lovely and enhances the vibrant colors of this print. I have signed and dated it in pencil under the image.

Wine Bottle Cheese Board -Olive (Large) - Here is another great wine bottle cheese board.
They make great Bunco or house warmnig gifts. This wine bottle has been recycled into a fabulous cheese board. The hanger is made of twisted copper wire. This makes the "perfect" serving tray or cheese board to serve your guests. A cheese spreader comes with each cheese board and they are packaged in a clear wine bag tied with raffia. The are ready for gift giving.

Friday Night Happy Hour

2008-11-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

Check out the link below for a great Friday Night Special from some of our extremely talented artists!!!

http://handmadefusion.com/network/index.php?page=forum&section=topic&top_id=100268

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 4

2008-11-14T04:52:00.000-08:00

We just want to mention there is great participation in the FuZion contest and we now have over 3,395 virtual tickets in the pot!

Todays Fabulous Finds are:

Connor - Connor, sleeping as only a baby can, is dreaming of being in the arms of his adopted mommy. He loves being held close, cuddled and rocked.Handsome as he is now, Connor began life as a plain, vinyl doll. I was able to transform him into the lifelike baby you see in his photos, using high quality, non-toxic, heat-set oil paints and premium mohair. He was given a jointed body, made especially for Reborns, and his head is attached so it can be moved from side to side.

Shabby Merry Christmas Sign Classic Look - A Classic Merry Christmas SignPainted on an off white worn finish, burgundy lettering,holly leaves and berries with a bit of glitter. Tuck on a shelf or hang where you'd like a bit of Christmas color.Sign is made of ½ inch mdf (medex), an exterior grade building material which won't warp or crack due to weather and painting is sealed so this is ready to be hung outside if desired.

Amber Waves of .....Earrings - These handmade lampwork beads are made by another artist yet I have transformed them into the perfect earrings for your fall and winter wardrobe. These 17mm across round discs are a creamy ivory topped with a gorgeous amber glass. The amber is dabbled with sterling silver for a sparlke and shine, like golden sun on the waves. Speaking of waves, they are present to. Silvered ivory waves that is.
Capped with a quality Thai silver spacer and an complimentary Swarovski crystal, these earrings are finished with a sterling silver lever back earring for the utmost secure fit.

More Updates and Great Features!!!

2008-11-13T06:02:00.000-08:00

As we are approaching our 2 month anniversary on November 15th we have so many wonderful new features, a contest and a brand new site sponsored by Handmade FuZion!
Contest Details: Our First FuZion Contest is going amazingly well! We have 2,525 virtual tickets in the pot and we’re just one week into the contest!

New Features:

Google Base – All Items are submitted to Google Base daily! If you list an item on Handmade FuZion before 10:00 am EST it should be listed on Google Base that day.

Store Avatar - You’ve been asking and now we have it. You are able to upload your very own store avatar that will identify you to your community.

Email to Sellers – We’ve couldn’t wait to get this news out to you. Many of you mentioned the lack of information that was sent in an email when a purchase is made. Now you will receive ALL the vital information on your buyer PLUS we’ve added a NOTES TO SELLER box at checkout so they can put in any required variables such as size, color, shape etc that pertains to your item.

BlogSpot – We’ve opened a new blog and have been posting daily. We did this in hopes of driving more traffic to our network. http://HandmadeFuZion.blogspot.com We are featuring our FuZion Finds each day during the holiday season! Your item may be next!

New Domain – Because we’ve both been selling online for years we know the importance of a domain name for your business. Even though we LOVE the name Handmade FuZion, it is a long name and we are aware of that. We purchased an additional domain for you to use called shophf.com. Now you can use this new domain for your labels and business cards as follows: www.shophf.com/stores/yourstore

Layout Change – We have changed the “look/appearance” of Handmade FuZion. It’s nothing major but through the feedback we’ve received we decided to take a softer look with the site. Some of our colors and graphics will change so that your items will be the focus of the site.

Last but certainly not least we have opened a site that is an online directory/search engine strictly for links to handmade venues, blogs, networks and artisans. It is a FREE online directory and will be a great service to the handmade community. Ad space is going quickly so we would like to offer a FREE 1 month advertising slot to the first 6 people who make purchases on Handmade FuZion. You will also receive virtual tickets towards our contest! Make a purchase and send us an email with your 125x125 ad.

We look forward to a successful and creative journey with all of you.
Sincerely,

Janice & Danielle

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 3

2008-11-12T05:58:00.000-08:00

Each and everyday we are both astounded and feel a sense of great pride in hosting the amazing talents our artisans have displayed on Handmade FuZion.

Todays fabulous finds are:

Facescape..... 16x20 Original Watercolor

All my paintings are signed Originals(by me of course)on canvas,linen or watercolor paper created with archival materials.

Earthtones Seashells Dream Catcher

Earthtones multi-browns suede lace, 4" ring, shades of brown metallic web with seashells, antique gold star with beige suede conchos, beige and gold metal beads, natural browns rooster hackle feathers, 20" long, with legend card to personalize.

Warm Vanilla Sugar Mini Muffin Soap Sample - Vegan

Compare this scent to Bath & Body Works Warm Vanilla Sugar. A superb blend of brown sugar, vanilla and musk.INGREDIENTS Olive OilCoconut OilPalm OilPurified WaterSodium HydroxideFragrance Oil Colorant.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks 2

2008-11-11T05:33:00.000-08:00

Just want to update the contest information here. Our artisans are doing superb with the First Handmade FuZion contest. Just 4 days into it and we have over 2,000 virtual tickets in the pot!!!

Todays fabulous finds are:

Color Lines - Colorful Mixed Media Wall Art Panel

"Color Lines" is a series of unique one of a kind vibrant works of art. There are no 2 alike - each one is handmade through a detailed process, created by me.The Color Lines Series is created from a process of repurposing old book pages (circa 1951 in this case), painting multiple layers of paint over each torn page, cutting the painted pages into pieces, and applying individual paper paintings onto a thick piece of black painted wood; then a careful thick coat of clear gloss lacquer makes for a tremendous shine and finish. Pictures just can't do the finished product justice! The thick gloss cover is truly remarkable.

Steel Blue Droplet Discs 5 lampwork

This set of 5 glass discs was created in my studio from Oregon-based Bullseye art glass. Steel blue transparent glass was pressed into 5 discs that overlap on one another when worn, adding other depths of tone to the existing blue glass. I am including silver spacers as shown because I like the way it looks, but the set can also be worn without. The beads are approximately 12mm wide x 18mm long x 10mm at the bail(1/2" x 11/16" x 3/8"). This is a fun set with a minimalist style but a lot of interest!

Custom Little Girl Friend

This listing is for a Custom Little Girl Friend. You can choose the fabric, hair color/style, and skin tone.Currently, I have 4 skin tones to choose. Peach, Mocha, Dark Brown and Golden Peach. Each doll measures 7 inches with the little ball feet.

FuZion Finds Gift Guide - Daily Picks

2008-11-10T06:04:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays!!! We wouldn't be doing our talented artisans any justice if we didn't have some of their fabulous items posted on our blog. There is no rhyme or reason to our selections... they are purely random and we hope you will enjoy.

Lets get right to it:

Rutilated Quartz in a Golden Dream - I bought this fantastic big piece of Rutilated Quartz. If you are not familiar with this quartz, It is generally clear with these beautiful golden hair-like strands that run through it. You can see them in the pictures. They are pretty subtle when worn. I made this pendant using 14k goldfilled 20g wire and 28g wire. I used a technique I learned from Eni Oken, which is called a Woven Bezel. It has yards of wire that I wrapped by hand (which you can see in the Backside photo) and then I made the bezel which is kind of like a netting that holds in the Quartz. I've done all of this with my hands, some pliers and wire cutters. It is quite sturdy and made to last for generations....

Splendid Brag Book - This book is made with a chipboard album. The pages all coordinate- fun papers that are striped, polka-dotted, and flowered! There are a few places to write something if you would like. Otherwise, they are ready to add photos! There are 12 pages...so that means 24 total, because both sides are pre finished. The album measures 6" by 4."

Nutty Chocolate Bark - Halloween - Christmas- Multiple Flavors - Peanuts, or the nut of your choice, are mixed into rich Milk Chocolate, and then layered with White (dyed Orange here) Chocolate. This listing is for 1 pound of our nutty Bark! You may choose from the list below, or custom create one of your own.*Peanut Bark (1st picture- dyed White Chocolate used- please specify if you want a different color!)*Rocky Road *Peanut Butter Cream (Milk and White chocolate, Peanut butter- like a Reeses PB cup, but BETTER!)*Nutty Chile Chocolate Bark (you pick the nuts)

Contest Update

2008-11-08T05:42:00.000-08:00

Wow, in less than 24 hours we have 635 virtual tickets in the pot! You can login to your account and see where you are in the running. We will be launching our blog contest shortly. This will be a great way to spread the word about Handmade FuZion and your stores.
As soon as we get to 30 blog entries we will be able to have our Project Wonderful ad box for the blogspot blog.

Ok, back to work for me.... yes I know it's saturday but if our programmers are working today then so am I :) There are more awesome features in the midst.

We are looking for contest giveaways, if you are interested in donating an item or a store credit please contact us.

CASH FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

2008-11-07T05:19:00.000-08:00

This morning we will be sending out an email to all our artisans letting them know about our very first contest!

Who can use money for the holidays??? EVERYONE, and that is why we are doing it. When you sign into your account go to your Control Panel in the members area, click on Contest Stats to see who is in the running.
Let me get right to the details:

NOV. 7th – DEC. 7th, 2008
We are so excited to announce our very first Handmade FuZion contest.
No signup is necessary. Everyone is eligible to win!
Here's how it works:
We have assigned a virtual tickets for things you normally do in building your business, such as listing an item, making a purchase and telling your friends.

Tickets Awarded:

Virtual Tickets for each item Listed = 10
Virtual Tickets for each item Relisted = 15
Virtual Tickets for each item Purchased = 25
Virtual Tickets for each New Referral = 30 (The person you refer needs to put your name into the registration form. Contact us for your tickets)

Prizes awarded:
1st place - $25.00 Cash in your Paypal Account
2nd place - $10.00 Credit to your Handmade FuZion Account (For Sellers Accounts Only)
3rd place - Candy Gift Box (Donated by Nuts4Candy)

If you would like to donate an item for the next contest please contact us at admin [at] handmadefusion.com. If you are selected we will add 25 tickets to your account.

Big Meeting Today

2008-11-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

We wanted to wait until we had a meeting this morning with our programmers before we posted here, so that is why it's a bit delayed.

There have been many requests from our artisans and we are doing all we can to provide the modifications they have asked for.

-We've decided on a New Layout and appearance.... this will include a brand new home page (nothing fancy) that will enable us to add content to it such as Featured Artist and Contest updates and information.

-We are kicking up our Search feature. That should be ready shortly... just needs some tweaking.

-Email to Sellers - We must agree that the email to a seller when an item sold was a bit lacking in information, so we have now corrected this with a FULLY detailed email to the seller that will include their Name, Address, and the ever important NOTES TO SELLER!!!

-We will be launching our blog contest as well as our First Monthly Handmade FuZion contest tomorrow.

Stay tuned for details.

Back to Normal - Better than Ever!

2008-11-05T07:35:00.000-08:00

So glad the election is over. Seems many people had their lives on hold until this moment in time due to it being such a historical event. Hopefully sales and the economy will pick up and things will get somewhat back to normal now... or maybe better than ever.

We have wonderful things planned for our artisans, for new comers and for buyers on Handmade FuZion.

We will be under going a "Make Over" very shortly! Even though it's early in our journey we are stepping up our look and adding some important and fun features very soon.

We will be launching our First Contest very shortly, as soon as we work out all the details. We'll also be sending out our 2 month anniversary email loaded with all the amazing new ideas, adverting and features we've added this past month!

We want to stress that we want to involve our artisans in the development of Handmade FuZion. That is why we have polls and a forum. We always have an open ear and encourage you to sumbit your ideas, talents and marketing strategies to us as they will all be considered.

Ok, back to the grindstone for me. :)

Election Day

2008-11-04T04:58:00.000-08:00

Ok, we feel somewhat obligated to mention here about the election since every blog we visit has a mention.

**Mentioning VOTE**

Really, it is super important and we'll be casting our votes this morning :)

Is there a Competitor in YOU?

2008-11-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

We LOVE contests!!! They are so much fun especially when you have everything to WIN!!! What could be better than building your business, making sales and getting a prize in the end??!!!

We thought our amazing artisans would be thrilled to have a little honest competition and so we had our programmers come up with a Handmade FuZion Contest Feature!

Danielle and I are doing everything in our power to promote, encourage and provide an environment in which our artisans can succeed.

More to come on this exciting new feature, so stay tuned............

New Features

2008-11-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Just recently an email went out that said "We just couldn't wait".

We just couldn't wait for our two month anniversary to share these updates with you. Some very important changes have taken place at Handmade FuZion that will enhance your business experience with us!

· New Custom Store Hit Counters (built in) You can now add a hit counter to your store directly at Handmade FuZion without copying code and pasting it in.

· New Store Templates - We prefer the clean lines of the default template but artisans are unique and like to customize the look of their stores. We've added several new store templates for you to choose from.

· Killerstartups.com! We have a review of Handmade FuZion on this site and hope to shortly be on their front page as one of their Killerstartup websites. CLICK HERE.

· Feedback Importer- Last but certainly not least is Handmade FuZion's Feedback Importer! Because we are young and many do not have feedback, this can sometimes be a drawback when a customer is looking to make a purchase. Now you can import your feedback score from 6 other selling sites! When you login to Handmadefusion.com you will see the Import Feedback Link on the left side under the Orange Members Area. Directions for each site's feedback import is on the page. Please carefully follow ALL DIRECTIONS in the order they are given. When it has successfully imported your feedback, you will see a message immediately that says: Congratulations, We have Successfully imported your (name of site) Feedback Score of: 206.

We look forward to a successful and creative journey with all of you.

Sincerely,
Janice & Danielle

Opening Day

2008-10-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome....The Full Story BUY, SELL, NETWORK HANDMADE

We are Janice and Danielle (age before beauty). Handmade FuZion was created and developed by women who just happen to be blessed by being sisters. We are just like you, addicted to creatively exploring our talents and deeply encouraged when someone purchases our creations and, of course, we love to shop! We are the best of friends, confidants and have for many years talked about a business venture together. We are thankful for our encouraging husbands, who put up with our creative ideas and between us we have 7 children; the oldest is 18 and the youngest is 9 months. Janice is married for 19 years, has 3 amazing sons ages 18 through 10, she is a web designer and office manager for her husband's business. Danielle is a former Medical Transcription Specialist who has four little angels ranging in age from 9 months old to 13 years old.

We started research and development in 2005 and then we launched the beta version wwcrafters.com. There was much to learn and many modifications were needed to step up to the selling venue level we are at now with Handmade FuZion. We combined the Social Networking aspects of Handmade FuZion because we realized that many artisans love to showcase, promote and express their talents to family, friends and peers. There are thousands of blogs, photo sites and other social networks out there, but Handmade FuZion's Network is unique because it is a site designed specifically for the opportunity to be a part of an artist centered network!

Handmade FuZion is a juried website. We jury for two reasons; the first is to keep out the resellers of mass produced items, and the second is to keep a cap on those categories that tend to become oversaturated. We would want this for ourselves and it enables our artisans to showcase and be seen. We have three jury teams that are comprised of 5 people each. We did this to create a fair and unbiased jury process. Between the two of us, we would let every applicant in (because we believe they are all talented), but that would defeat the purpose of a juried website and be unfair to those who applied under those circumstances.

While planning and developing this site was a huge undertaking, nothing was quite the task of getting this blog up and running! We think it is going to be awesome, and we hope you will agree!

We hope to update this regularly but with demanding schedules we might have "guest" bloggers come in.

Artisan Preview #1

2008-10-30T09:42:00.000-07:00