Unique Expressions

25% Off All Store Items!

2011-07-28T16:02:00.002-05:00

Enjoy 25% off all items in both of my Etsy shops in celebration of me finishing my doctorate! Enter coupon code Grad2011 at checkout :D

Happy Shopping!

http://jessprkle.etsy.com

http://jesspins.etsy.com

First Qualifying Exam = DONE!

2009-03-01T19:27:00.002-06:00

To celebrate the submission of my first doctoral qualifying exam, I'm offering free domestic shipping in both my shops through 3/6/09.

Be sure to stop by and take advantage!

http://jessprkle.etsy.com
http://jesspins.etsy.com

doodles on the run

2009-02-08T23:05:00.003-06:00

hiya, folks

blah blah blah. i really need this semester to end, but also need more time! i have a clinical qualifying exam due in 20 days, and a dissertation proposal that isn't coming along as quickly as I'd like. i'm hoping once the exam has come and gone that the proposal will pick up some speed.

despite all the chaos, i still carve out some time to create. here's a doodle that took me two days... fun stuffs!

much love and sparkles!
*jes*
http://jessprkle.etsy.com
http://jesspins.etsy.com

yep. again.

2009-01-25T10:18:00.004-06:00

heya, everyone!

sooo, yeah. i finally got around to updating my list of places to promote and sell your wares, so please be sure to check it out!

and be sure to stop by my Etsy shops to look around and give me some love!
Jessprkle & Jesspins

love and *sparkles*!
~jes

sisters are influential

2009-01-23T13:45:00.004-06:00

at least mine are. i've got 6 sisters and one brother. recently, my sis, Shannon, started a blog where she is documenting daily musings in her illustrative world. her endeavor has inspired me to keep up with blogging and show a little of my own creative processes as i struggle to get through this semester!

soooo, this shot is another freeform crochet hat in progress. again, i'm using up bits and pieces of my own handspun yarns. but this one will have tiny tidbits of commercial yarns as well. i fear freeform is going to have me spending gobs of moola on yarn from other etsy sellers... we'll see what happens!!

In love with freeform and hardly any time

2009-01-22T13:18:00.008-06:00

school has been an absolute mad house since i last posted here. this semester includes a qualifying exam and dissertation proposal, as well as searching for therapy practicum sites. my hubby and i are also possibly looking to purchase a home in Louisville, KY, so that's another thing to add to the list... house hunting! fun, exciting, but kinda overwhelming, too.

anywho!!

i just finished my first freeform crochet project... a hat inspired by Heather from girlwithahook. i've admired her work for so long. i recently found myself swimming in scraps of my handspun yarns and decided to give freeform a shot. i. am. officially. obsessed. but i have no time! i do have another project in the works, and i hope to document its progress here.

well, i'm off... been sick all week and it's time to buy some medicine... i always try to put that off. i hate chemicals swimming through my body! blech!

New Shop on Etsy!

2008-09-14T22:26:00.001-05:00

I took the plunge and opened a second Etsy store! It's called "Jes Spins!". I will be devoting this new space to all of my fiber goodies: handspun yarn and crocheted stuffs. I'm totally excited about it and feel my fibers yums stand much better on their own than mixed in with all of my other creations at jessprkle. Please stop by my new corner of Etsy :) I'd love to see you there!

XOXO
*jes*

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Jujulee

2008-08-15T11:28:00.000-05:00

I found this great little shop on Etsy recently.

Jujulee sells unique, yet trendy, accessories and jewelry that she whips up from acrylic and mirrored acrylic glass. With 65 sales since she started on Etsy back in April, Jujulee isn't doing too shabby! Her silhouette designs are chic yet eye-catching. I think they would be perfect for that little black dress or a jeans outfit. Then she has this collection of colorful, spunky, reflective pieces--totally suitable for a night on the town or club dancing! And at these steal-worthy prices, they would make great gifts and stocking stuffers :)

Be sure to check out Jujulee!

Etsy
Buy Handmade
jujulee

Long Time, No Blogger

2008-08-09T21:52:00.000-05:00

Talk about craziness. Talk about chaos. Talk about wild. That's how my past two semesters have been. It's been difficult keeping up with all the blogging and other online marketing and promotion. *sigh* However, no fears! I've got a 2-week break coming up and plan to do quite a bit of blogging during that time. I've purchased from a LOT of Etsy sellers over the past two semesters, and plan to do little reviews of my experiences with them. I also plan to update my Etsy Shopping Guide because that has gone too long as well.

I'll be blogging soooooon :)
XOXO

Revolution Money Exchange

2008-05-21T05:54:00.001-05:00

I'm always looking for other methods of payment for online shoppers, because not everyone is a fan of PayPal. In addition to PayPal and Google Checkout, I am now accepting RME as a method of payment. Use this link below to sign up! You get credit for referrals, and they've been offering a free 25 bucks for signing up (I'm not sure when that offer ends, though, so get a move on!!!):

Fiber Addict

2008-02-16T10:12:00.001-06:00

It's true... I've become a total fiber addict. I honestly don't know what to do with myself! I recently did a trade with Liz of hobbledehoy and got these yummiful wonderful fibery batts! I couldn't stop squooshing my face in them! But spinning them on my wheel was just as exhilirating...

I love spinning. It has become my main source of coping with the chaotic life of being a doctoral student. The soft clicks the wheel makes, watching the colorway come to life, the smell of fibery love, and the fuzziness under my fingers... it's a full sensory experience! Now that I have a wheel and I'm able to spin things up so quickly, I'm coveting a drum carder. I'm feeling quite limited in what I can spin up since I can't really mix things up like I'd love to do. So, that's the next thing I'm saving up for. Buy from my etsy store so I can get one faster!!!!! LOL

In addition, I've become bored with household dying. It's time to venture into professional dyes, but I can't find a suitable pot :( If anyone has any suggestions, please do send them my way.

I also just purchased 16 oz of EcoSpun yarn on ebay today. I'm sooo excited to get my fiber made from plastic bottles! How fun!

Please take my survey on the right! And join my mailing list if you're so inclined!

Until next time,
Peace, love, and *sparkles*
*jes*

Awesome Feature and Interview!

2008-01-28T00:27:00.000-06:00

Zoot-a-zoooot! Guess who was featured on a lovely blog with a wonderful interview? Yep. Me! I'm thrilled with how it was presented. Please be sure to check it out HERE

And be sure to take my poll on the right hand side of this page!!!
XOXO
*jes*

Fun Goodie Bags Now Available!

2008-01-27T12:51:00.001-06:00

I'm excited to now be offering surprise goodie bags in My Etsy store! These fun stashes will be full of things like: Paper beads, Yarn-wrapped beads, Earrings, Rings, Barrettes, Envelopes, Commercial supplies, Handspun yarn, Pendants, and Magnets. So, come on and surprise yourself today with a fun Jessprkle Goodie Bag!

psst! don't forget to vote on my poll to the right!!!

I'm Back!

2008-01-21T23:40:00.000-06:00

After a long haitus from blogging, I've decided to start up again. It was a crazy semester, and this one will be even more chaotic. Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to it.

My Etsy sales have remained somewhat steady despite my lack of outside promoting. Thank you to all of my wonderful customers for keeping me afloat during school :)

I'm pretty psyched, because I just bought this fabulous Ashford Kiwi Spinning Wheel! Now I'll be able to spin up yummy fibers in half the time with more yardage! eeep!

I've added a mailing list and poll to the right hand side of my blog. Please take the time to offer your opinion and join the list if you'd like!

Keep an eye on my Etsy store for new goodies, too!

My Sister's Artwork Was Stolen!!!

2007-09-26T00:24:00.000-05:00

This piece, titled "Fear of Being Forgotten", was done by my sister, Shannon Bonatakis. It was recently stolen from the gallery where it was on display. I am reposting here the bulletin she put up on myspace. Please, please, please.... repost this anywhere you can! I also have it up on my flickr.
--------------

About a week ago a painting of mine was stolen from Joyengine, the gallery I've had it hanging at for the last year or so. I just found out because I've been overseas for a week, so I am only now getting to post this and hope that you all, if you could, will repost this for me. This piece has hundreds of hours of my life chronicled into it. It has never been marked for sale, means more to me than any chunk of money ever could, and has always been intended to be given to the person I originally created it for and about. I'm not sure that any person who could bring themselves to steal someone's work like this could ever understand that, but perhaps they could think about it for a few seconds and have a change of heart.

Listen - I don't care who you are, I don't care why you think you deserve my painting more than I do, and I don't care what your intentions were with stealing it. I just want it back. Stealing somebody's artwork is so audaciously disrespectful, I can't even figure out who would do something like that.

If you by chance see this hanging somewhere or you were by chance somehow involved in this, please do the right thing and return it. Wrap it in plastic and leave it at Joyengine's front door. Mail it to them. Do it completely anonymously, I don't care. Just return it. It means more to me than it does to whoever took it. And if you could, please repost this. Perhaps somehow in this crazy web of millions of myspacers this could fall under the right eyes.

Joyengine's address is 2037 13th Street Boulder, CO 80302. Their phone number is 303-449-1967. Please contact them (or myself) if you know anything about this.

Many thanks,
Shannon Bonatakis

Etsy Seller Spotlight: SobeBotanicals

2007-09-14T07:19:00.000-05:00

Today I'm talking about Sobebotanicals.

I recently purchased a 15-piece sampler kit from her etsy shop and have fallen in love with mineral makeup. I can tell these little 5g sifters are going to last me quite awhile. I especially like the foundation... it's so light on the skin! I never wear foundation because of how gunky and fake it looks, but here's a photo of my face all done up with her makeup (no gunk!):

Etsy
Buy Handmade
SobeBotanicals

Be sure to stop by SobeBotanicals today!!!

Newly Updated!

2007-09-07T23:01:00.000-05:00

I have updated my list of places to promote and sell again! Be sure to check it out :)

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Yellena

2007-09-03T23:14:00.000-05:00

I'm a sucker for art. Always have been, always will be. I can stare at etsy seller Yellena's work for-ever. I love Yellena's use of color and motion. Have a look for yourself:

Etsy
Buy Handmade
yellena

I find Yellena's work to be so wonderfully whimsical! Be sure to stop by this fabulous etsy store!

... and.... yep ... AGAIN!

2007-08-23T21:21:00.000-05:00

No joke. Yesterday I was on the front page of Etsy for a third day IN A ROW! Lookie lookie:

I have EtsyLabs to thank for that gorgeous yarn treasury!

I gained 36 hearts to my shop over those three days, dozens upon dozens of views, and oodles of hearts of the items that were featured. Thanks for spreading the love, Etsy neighbors!

To end the week, I'll be in the Etsy Showcase tomorrow. I haven't even THOUGHT about which items to feature there!

AND, be sure to check out my new Etsy Shopping Guide. I categorized and organized all of my favorite sellers on Etsy. This now makes finding things much easier :)

Made the front page AGAIN!!!

2007-08-22T13:05:00.001-05:00

Man, am I a lucky girl or what?! I made the front page of etsy AGAIN yesterday. That makes two days in a row! Here's a screenshot of the happiness:

Special thanks to tomatedepingles for creating the exquisite treasury list devoted to all things recycled!

Needless to say, that lot of beads sold within minutes of being on the front page. They gained like, a gazillion views and hearts before they sold, too. I also accumulated over 10 new hearts on my shop yesterday. Thanks for spreading the etsy love!

AND, to make the day EVEN BETTER... smidge featured me on her site yesterday as well!
Screenshot of that wonderfulness:

So, all in all, yesterday was a fantabulous day for my etsy store! Yay!

Etsy Front Page!

2007-08-21T11:47:00.000-05:00

So, I found out my cotton candy yarn was on Etsy's front page yesterday. Too bad I missed it! But thanks to tomatedepingles, I have been blessed with a screenshot of the event :)

Thank you, shanasays, for creating the gorgeous treasury list that was chosen for the front page!

2007-08-16T12:09:00.000-05:00

So, back in April I did a Seller Spotlight on MaidenLove. Just look at what she sent me as a thank-you presie:

Now I have an elephant of my very own! But the sweetest thing was the lovely packaging. His name is Preppy, and he came in a box full of sweet-smelling lavender. He smells like lavender himself! Mmmmmm..... Accompanying him was a little tale of his creation. So magical!

Thank you, MaidenLove, for making me such a happy girlie girl :)

Almost Settled!

2007-08-13T09:18:00.001-05:00

So, I've arrived in Chicago and have been unpacking for what seems like eons now. Soon enough, I'll have made it to the bottom of my boxes full of craft supplies and will be able to start creating again. I am getting very antsy to create!!! I also have a couple of orders from wonderful customers who purchased from my store despite me being amidst a move---getting those mailed out are an absolute priority once all of my creative stuff is unpacked.

And, needless to say, I'm in love with Chicago :) I am SO happy to be here!

Until next time...
*jes*

Stylelab on Dawanda!

2007-08-04T08:36:00.000-05:00

I received this message from Elizabeth, one of the admin on Dawanda, about the new Stylelab feature that is being started:
---------------
We are getting ready to launch the DaWanda Style Lab in the coming days and are now accepting applications from our members to take part. The Style lab is a new feature of DaWanda where you can offer your customers made to measure products.

If you create custom made items and would like to participate in the DaWanda Style Lab, please drop me a line or fill in an application on the Style Lab page [http://en.dawanda.com/create]

Please also take note of the special offer for new members!

contact elizabeth@dawanda.com for more information!
---------------
So, be sure to check it out! I'm on my way right now :)

Long time, no Blogger

2007-07-19T23:20:00.000-05:00

I have been so so busy! My sales have remained fairly steady, I've been obsessed with Flickr, I was in Chicago for a week and found an apartment, and I recently had hand surgery. I'm healing well, though, so not much longer before I'm back to my normal self! Also, I've been busy with packing and getting all of that necessary stuff with moving--utilities, internet, changing address with everyone... ugh! I'm also all registered for my first semester of doctoral studies! Yippeee! It's really happening! I'm so excited!

But amidst all of this busy chaos I have slacked here on blogger. Seems that blogger is the first to go when things get crazy in my life! It will probably continue to be this way until mid-August. Then I plan to be around at least once a week to do more etsy seller spotlights and start archiving the places I've been featured.

Thanks so much, wonderful blog readers! And be sure to stop by my store!

Featured on Dawanda's Blog!

2007-05-31T08:54:00.000-05:00

So, back on May 21st, I was featured here on Dawanda's blog!

They even mentioned the Dawanda group on Flickr that I started!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: KolosStudio

2007-05-27T13:16:00.000-05:00

This week I'm talking about: KolosStudio. Lucite jewelry with buggies inside... frellin' cool! Check out the store's latest items:

Etsy
Buy Handmade
KolosStudio

And be sure to stop by KolosStudio!

Screenshots FOREVER!

2007-05-26T10:04:00.003-05:00

Thanks to CubedPop on etsy, I've been introduced to this wonderful screenshot program called Screengrab!. I have always had trouble taking screenshots, because I don't have photoshop and can't morph several images into one. But with this handy-dandy program, I have ZERO problem now!

I can finally show off the kind people who have featured me on their sites!

I'll start off with bugsandfishes. She purchased these yarn-wrapped earrings from me as a gift for her sister. Not only did she mention her purchase on her blog,

but she followed up as well once they arrived at her doorstep!

Interestingly enough, these same earrings were mentioned as a source of inspiration for a user on crafster. She mentioned having seen this photo in my photo stream on flickr, and linked to it in the presentation of her own earrings.

Thanks to these wonderful people for mentioning me on the internet!

This is what happens when you're home sick...

2007-05-25T07:40:00.000-05:00

when i'm home sick, i go kinda crazy having nothing to do. being home sick this entire week with an excruciating head cold does not really allow for creating things... the pain in my head!!! it's horrible!!!! i've been lying in bed with my handy-dandy laptop, messing around online. and low and behold, this little widget from splashr caught my attention.

Look what came in the mail today!

2007-05-24T17:39:00.000-05:00

Zoot-a-zoot-a-ZOOOOOOOOOT! My promo buttons just arrived from kittycrossbones! I am in luuuuuuuuuuuuuuv with these suckers! yes, sir... yes, sir. Not only do her buttons rock, but so do her mirrors. I know, because I was one of her customers nearing her to sale 800 and got one for FREE in my package! Oh! and even better? She price matches. Be sure to stop by her store and read her store announcement for details on her special offers.

Watch out, kitty! One day I'm gonna buy a button-maker or two and I'll challenge you to a punching-pressing match! LOL

All Things Etsy: Call for Samples and Promos!

2007-05-24T11:46:00.000-05:00

Hello, hello, everyone!!! I'm still home sick from work (ugh) and I'm helping out Octarine gather more promos for the All Things Etsy bags. Haven't heard of 'em? Well, then you are missing out FOR SURE!!! Organza bags stuffed to the rim with promos, samples, coupons, and biz cards from a never-ending list of etsy shops... these bags are the PERFECT way for sellers to get their names out to the etsy community.

Questions? See this forum thread for the All Things Etsy FAQ's.

Who can benefit from these bags and how:
* Buyers-only: Buy a bag and sample tons of Etsy loveliness! Find new shops, get discounts! Who doesn't love a discount or a sample?!
* Sellers: Send your promos, samples, etc., and get your name out there! Reserve your own bag from Octarine, divide them up and send them out as freebies with your orders. I do this, and I always get thank-you's from my customers. Plus, I've gotten word from customers saying they've enjoyed browsing through the shops I've included from the etsy bags!

It's a win-win situation here!!! Become part of All Things Etsy!
Just contact Octarine for information on ordering and/or sending your goodies to contribute to the bags!

I've Been Tagged!

2007-05-23T11:32:00.000-05:00

Thanks to eveline, I've been tagged to mention 7 facts about me in my blog. I normally wouldn't participate in such silly things (LOL), but i'm home sick today and have nothing better to do!

So, here goes:

1. I'm the oldest of eight children. My youngest sib is 3 y/o (i'm 29).
2. I recently started an 8-week fitness program, which has been horribly interrupted by a disgusting head cold.
3. I am VERY angry about being sick during week 3 of my program!
4. I'm preparing to offer filigree jewelry in my etsy store!!! eeep! exciting!
5. I lived in Germany for two years.
6. I hate not being busy.
7. I have an intense fear of pregnancy, but i totally want to adopt one day!

Cherry Wednesday!

2007-05-23T06:59:00.000-05:00

Since I'm home sick today, I thought it would be a perfect time to start my previously planned 'theme days'. Dunno why, but I was in the mood to look for cherries on Etsy, and look at what fabulous stuff I found!
Cherry Necklace

Cherry Mugs

Cherry Tile

Cherry Smock

Cherry Pendant

i <3 etsy!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Neile

2007-05-21T13:54:00.000-05:00

So, yeah... slacking again with my seller spotlight. I will really get on the ball one of these days. Been sick all weekend and had an amazing day of sales yesterday!

But I didn't want to miss out this week on my seller spotlight. Here I have: neile

I can't take my eyes off this shop! Butterflies encapsulated in metal and glass... how much better can life get??!!

Etsy
Buy Handmade
neile

Be sure to stop by neile's etsy store!

Etsy Seller Spotlight Sunday: FoolsPlushIn

2007-05-13T16:05:00.000-05:00

So, I've decided to try and do more features throughout the week. Sundays will still be devoted to my "spotlight" sellers. I plan to come up with themes for other days of the week and choose a few sellers to show off.

But for today, I'm featuring: FoolsPlushIn

I found this store this past week. What cute plushies! I just wanna squeeeeeze 'em all!

Etsy
Buy Handmade
FoolsPlushIn

Be sure to stop on by FoolsPlushIn's Etsy Store!

Saturday Night Specials!

2007-05-12T17:13:00.001-05:00

It's Saturday night, meaning time for Saturday Night Specials (SNS). Here are my specials this evening:

* Get 3 sets of any $4.00 barrettes for $10.00
* $2.00 off all earrings priced at $10.00 and above
* $2.00 off all pendants

Just mention 'SNS' in the notes to seller at checkout and wait for an adjusted invoice before paying.

Good 'til midnight Hawaii time :)

Be sure to stop by my etsy store to take advantage of these great deals!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: CrankyCats

2007-05-06T08:34:00.000-05:00

This week I'm giving a shout out to: crankycats

With such adorable artwork, how can you keep yourself from giggling? I know I can't!

Etsy
Buy Handmade
crankycats

Be sure to stop by crankycat's store!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: MaidenLove

2007-04-29T19:44:00.000-05:00

Today I'm bragging about: maidenlove
Seeing as I'm an elephant addict and have always dreamed of having a miniature elephant that i could keep in my apartment and walk on a leash, it's no wonder i'm in love with this shop! Just look at these cuties:

Etsy
Buy Handmade
maidenlove

Be sure to stop by maidenlove's etsy store!

Updated!

2007-04-29T19:19:00.000-05:00

I have recently updated and organized a post from August, 2006 on my blog regarding website marketing and promotion. I've also incorporated a list of places to sell your handmade goods! So, be sure to check it out again and get updated!

Etsy Growing Pains

2007-04-23T20:16:00.000-05:00

So, those of you who frequent Etsy will have noticed the slow loading time, especially with pictures. Etsy has grown so much in past months and admin is working very hard on keeping things running smoothly. Please be patient with our growing pains. I know I get impatient sometimes, but I am also quite confident that admin will have the site running smoothly soon.

Be sure to check out the blog for up-to-date info on the site and this forum thread for details as to what work admin just completed.

Help me start my doctoral studies!

2007-04-08T20:52:00.002-05:00

Help me move to Chicago, where I'm starting my doctoral studies this fall!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: MintConspiracy

2007-04-08T19:17:00.000-05:00

My seller this week is: mintconspiracy I discovered this shop awhile back. Cute little cuddly creatures galore! I was in love with this little guy, but he sold!!!! ARGH! i officially hate whoever bought him! LOL, j/k!

Please check out this store and get yourself a new cuddle-bum friend!

Recycled Envelopes come to Unique Expressions!

2007-04-01T15:10:00.000-05:00

This is SO EXCITING!!! I've started listing my recycled envelopes in my etsy store. These little guys are so so cute. My current supply is made from pages of a Vogue magazine. I've got Glamour and Lucky on the way, too! Hooray for reusing and recycling! Be sure to get them now at their special introductory price of only $0.25 each!

Busy as a little bee...

2007-03-31T20:06:00.000-05:00

I work full-time as a mental health professional right now on a FACT team. So, that eats up an easy 40hrs/week. After work I head straight to my gym, sweat out my anxiety and stress for a good two hours, shower, and head home for the night. Once I'm home, I'm a creating MACHINE! Here's what I've been up to lately:

Making wonderful barrettes and rings from glass cabs I purchased from liskidder:

More awesome barrettes with vintage cabochons I got from peppermintsoda:

And I just finished two custom orders for a wonderful customer, and I am SO THRILLED with how these turned out:

On top of all that, I've started making cute little envelopes out of recycled pages of magazines. I can't wait to start listing them! Yippee!

A couple of other projects I have going on at the moment include creating spreadsheets for bulk listing onto google_base, and compiling a list of blogs and other sites on which I've been featured. I haven't kept track of this thus far, and have totally lost track of a couple of places where people showed me off.

I'm telling you!!! Busy busy BUSY!

Etsy Destash Bash!

2007-03-31T08:15:00.000-05:00

Time for spring cleaning! Do a search on Etsy for 'destash' or 'destashbash' to find all kinds of goodies Etsy sellers are clearing out of their workspaces. Starts today and goes through April 3rd.

I'm offering a buy-one-get-one-half-off sale on anything in 'My Junk Drawer' section of my store. Just mention 'destashbash' in the 'notes to seller' at checkout and wait for an adjusted invoice before paying.

Sale only good through April 3rd. Shipping costs still apply.

Etsy Seller Spotlight: PoppysWickedGarden

2007-03-19T20:01:00.000-05:00

Woohoo! I'm on a roll! Two days in a row! LOL

Here's my seller in the spotlight for today: poppyswickedgarden

I want this shirt:

and other fabulous goodies in this store! Be sure to check it out!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: StonehouseStudio

2007-03-18T11:23:00.000-05:00

I'm back with another spotlight seller! I've been thinking that I'd like to try doing this more than weekly, so check back more often to see more great shops!

Today, I'm featuring an awesome store I found recently: StonehouseStudio
This store is FULL of amazing jewelry, much of which is made with sterling silver and polymer clay. Here are two of my favorite pieces:

Be sure to stop on by StonehouseStudio for more awesomely unique jewelry!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: DanielleLoporto

2007-03-11T09:38:00.000-05:00

Please say hello to: danielleloporto

I think I'm officially obsessed with the headbands in her store. I think they would look MARVELOUS over my dreads. What do you think?

Be sure to check out her store for more fabulous headbands!!!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: SudsMuffin

2007-03-08T19:10:00.000-06:00

This spotlight is my first bath and body feature. Sudsmuffin makes this unbelievably yummy-looking whipped shea butter. I SWEAR! One of these days I'm going to buy one. And it comes in several scents, too. How much better can this get?! Just look at this shea butter:

Yummy in my tummy! Well... not really in my tummy, but maybe ON my tummy! LOL :)

Be sure to stop by Sudsmuffin on Etsy!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Hobbledehoy

2007-02-25T07:12:00.000-06:00

Alright, alright... so, i've continued to be a slacker with this blog, despite the new year. I've been very busy with orders and sending out promos as of late. It's amazing how much time that can start to take up! I do want to continue with featuring sellers, so let's start over again. Please meet Hobbledehoy

Yes, i continue to be addicted to the sight of fabulous yarns and fibers. This store has some great ones! Here's a particular fav of mine:

Not only does she make gorgeous things, but she's super nice, too! Be sure to check out her shop for yarns, fibers, and fun fun buttons!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Treehouse28

2007-01-01T18:01:00.000-06:00

It's been ages since I've done a seller spotlight! Now that it's a new year, let's see if I can stay on top of this a little better!

For this week's spotlight seller, I've chosen: Treehouse28

For Christmas, I received these armwarmers from her shop:

they are totally chic, totally warm, and i feel incredibly awesome wearing them! I highly recommend this seller! So, be sure to check out: Treehouse28

Newest Creation

2006-12-03T10:42:00.000-06:00

I am so incredibly proud of how this choker turned out:

You can see its listing in my etsy store here

so funky, so fab! And I can make it any length and in any colors of your heart's desire!

so, stop by my etsy store

Etsy Seller Spotlight: InHope

2006-11-26T21:23:00.000-06:00

So, this seller has totally captured my attention lately:

InHope

Why, you ask? Well, I've recently started spinning yarn, and this girl creates the most MAGNIFICENT skeins. Seriously. I totally admire her work and hope that I can work up to projects such as hers. Here's my current fav in her store:

::drool::

Be sure to check out InHope.etsy.com!

HUGE sale on earrings and pendants!

2006-11-21T14:02:00.000-06:00

Stop by Unique Expressions for incredible deals on earrings and pendants!

I've marked down items considerably. You'll find lots of options for under $5.00! What great stocking stuffers!

Help me clear out my stock while filling your holiday stockings!

Stop by my etsy store, Unique Expressions.

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Shuusei

2006-11-19T18:02:00.000-06:00

Sorry for all the little red 'x'-s in place of photos in my previous posts. Since Etsy has officially moved over to v2, it looks like the old photo links are not working. So, we're off to a fresh start!

My first seller in the spotlight since the release of v2, is Shuusei

I'm in love with this artwork. Seriously... can it be anymore stunning?

Be sure to check out this store and the new etsy!

SALE at Unique Expressions

2006-11-10T10:32:00.000-06:00

Until etsy shuts down for the change-over into v2, I am offering the following sales:

* $2.00 off all earrings and pendants. Some examples:

* $1.00 off all magnets, including these new promo sets I customize to your specifications:

and don't forget that I'm offering FREE domestic shipping until the change-over as well. mention 'v2' in the 'notes to seller' at checkout and wait for an adjusted invoice before paying.

Etsy Seller Spotlight: GirlWithAHook

2006-11-07T08:37:00.000-06:00

This week's featured seller is: GirlWithAHook

Her hats are so incredibly unique and organic in approach. I'm quite disappointed, though, because my favorites in her shop have sold, including:

i'm jealous of it's new owner....mph!

But the shop is fabulous! Be sure to check out GirlWithAHook

Saturday Night Specials at Unique Expressions

2006-11-04T15:26:00.000-06:00

Stop by my etsy store for some unbeatable deals tonight!

Here are my starting specials:

* 25% off Earrings for a Mother or Grandmother. These make GREAT gifts. Everyone I've made them for has broken into tears! So get your orders in tonight with this great deal!

* 50% off all other earrings in my store!

I have free domestic shipping until the release of v2 as well :)

Good from 5pm EST - midnight Hawaii time. Just mention 'SNS' in the 'notes to seller' and wait for an adjusted invoice.

To see other Saturday Night Specials on Etsy, check out this thread

Etsy Seller Spotlight: SpazSpun

2006-10-29T13:30:00.000-06:00

Okay, okay... so I missed posting this spotlight last week. I must apologize! I was *pooped* after taking the National Counselor Examination. But now I'm back and energized!

This week's seller in the spotlight is: SpazSpun

This store is full of wonderful cozy yarns and other yarn-related items. Here's a particular favorite of mine:

I just LOVE the little beads throughout that royal blue!

Be sure to check out SpazSpun.etsy.com!

NEWS FLASH!

2006-10-29T13:27:00.000-06:00

~*NEWSFLASH*~

Etsy will be closed for the v2 changeover Nov 4 and 5th. See the blog for further info.

Unique Expressions will be back up and
running on Nov 6.

In the meantime...
it's business as usual...Yay!

Saturday Night Specials at Unique Expressions

2006-10-28T15:25:00.000-05:00

Here's what's special tonight at Unique Expressions:

BOGO (Buy-One-Get-One) in my entire store! You buy one item and choose a second of equal or lesser value for FREE!

I also have free domestic shipping until release of v2.

Starts at 5pm EST and goes until midnight Hawaii time. Just put 'SNS' in the 'notes to seller box' at checkout and wait for an adjusted invoice before paying.

For more great Etsy Saturday Night Specials, check out this thread in the Etsy forums.

Happy Saturday Shopping!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: InASpoon

2006-10-15T18:59:00.000-05:00

Decisions, decisions, decisions! I always seem to avoid posting this weekly blog b/c it is SO difficult for me to choose a seller to show off to the world! This week i'm having a particularly challenging time, but here goes!

This week's etsy seller in the spotlight is: InASpoon
I'm not sure what it is about the works in this store that attract me, but i'm especially drawn to this one:

Be sure to check out inaspoon.etsy.com!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: TriciaJoy

2006-10-08T11:03:00.000-05:00

This week's seller in the spotlight is: TriciaJoy

this artwork is breathtaking. i could seriously plaster my entire blog with the paintings, but then you'd have no reason to visit the store!!! so, here's one i've chosen to feature here:

Sparkle:

be sure to stop by this store!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: MerandaTurbak

2006-10-01T10:27:00.000-05:00

My Etsy seller in the spotlight this week is:

MerandaTurbak

another incredible artist i recently discovered. just check this piece out:

it's entitled, "Come Hither"

love, love, love

be sure to check out the rest of the store!!!

Saturday Night Special at Unique Expressions

2006-09-30T15:32:00.000-05:00

here we go, folks!

1. $2.00 off this necklace i listed today:

2. $1.00 off all earrings!
3. and as always with my SNS, a FREE random lot of 12 of my paper beads with each purchase!!!

just mention 'SNS' in the 'notes to seller' box upon checkout and wait for an adjusted invoice.

good until midnight EST.

Join My Street Team!

2006-09-28T13:35:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking about new and creative ways to promote my etsy store. I've come up with a way for YOU to receive FREE gifts through assisting in my marketing and promotion. Here's how it works:

1) You contact me either through this blog or my email: jessprkle@hotmail.com and state that you would like to join my street team. Include your first name, last name, and mailing address.
2) I send you 10 of my business cards in the mail that include your first and last name on the back as a discount code for each person you refer to my etsy store. They will receive 10% off their purchase when they include your first and last name in the 'notes to seller' box upon checkout.
3) Once three purchases have been made that include your name as the discount code, i will list a pair of earrings as a PIF (Pay-It-Forward) reserved for you in my etsy store. This means they are FREE to you. You will NOT need to pay for them. It is my way to say 'thank you' for helping with my marketing and promotional efforts. I will email you the link to the listing once it's there.
4) If you need more business cards, just send me an email! I'll send you more!

Easy, right?! So, come on! Join my Street Team!!!

Some Recent Expressions

2006-09-26T20:29:00.000-05:00

Okay, okay... i must admit. I'm getting IMPATIENT! I always get SO excited about my latest creations and then feel so bummed when they don't sell immediately. that need for instant gratification can get me every time! ha!

anyhow! here are some of my most recent expressions. i'm quite proud of these. just click on the photos to go the the item's listing. and remember, $1.00 when you mention 'blogger' in the 'notes to seller' at checkout. just wait for an adjusted invoice before paying. and FREE DOMESTIC SHIPPING until the release of Etsy v2!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Artsins

2006-09-24T20:30:00.000-05:00

This week I'm featuring a very new seller on etsy: Artsins

i'm in love with the entire store, so it's hard to pick which to show here. but since i have to settle:

be sure to check out this etsy store for more incredible images!

Saturday Night Special at Unique Expressions

2006-09-23T15:14:00.000-05:00

Here's my SNS!

* As always, with any purchase from my store b/t the hours of 5:00 pm and 12:00 am EST, you recieve a random lot of 12 of my paper beads.

* 25% off everything in my store that was listed in March

* 15% off everything in my store that was listed in April

Just mention 'SNS' in the 'notes to seller' at checkout. and remember, FREE domestic shipping until the release of Etsy v2!

Happy Saturday shopping!

New at Unique Expressions

2006-09-18T17:55:00.000-05:00

Look what's new in my store!

Great sterling silver hearts ornamented with red swarovski crystals. These are available for $12.00 in my etsy store. Just click on the photo to go to its listing.

and remember!!! $1.00 off when you mention 'blogger' in the 'notes to seller' upon checkout. just wait for an adjusted invoice before paying. Also, FREE domestic shipping until the release of Etsy v2!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: ChrisBrindley

2006-09-16T23:51:00.000-05:00

My seller this week is: Chris Brindley

I don't know what it is, but i luv this little guy right here:

This piece is called "He Snuffled"...

i think i like this so much b/c it reminds me of childhood watching sesame street when snuffie was 'invisible' and also b/c i luv elephants so much and this character kinda looks like an elephant.

in any case! there's more great art at http://chrisbrindley.etsy.com!!!

Saturday Night Specials at Unique Expressions

2006-09-16T16:37:00.000-05:00

SNS at Unique Expressions:

* With any purchase you receive a random lot of 12 of my paper beads

* 15% off EVERYTHING in my store

be sure to include 'SNS' in 'notes to seller' at checkout. these deals good until midnight tonight, EST.

and as always (until v2 of Etsy appears) FREE domestic shipping.

A custom order

2006-09-14T19:43:00.000-05:00

I get lots of custom orders from returning customers. Here's a necklace and earring set I recently made:

if you're interested in getting a similar set of your very own, just contact me through my etsy store: Unique Expressions

More Beads!

2006-09-11T18:38:00.000-05:00

There are always recycled paper beads in my store. Here's a lot i just listed today:

Click the photo to go to its listing. And as always, mention 'blogger' at checkout in the 'notes to seller' box and you get $1.00 off. just wait for an adjusted invoice!

Newly Listed: Sterling Circles

2006-09-10T15:32:00.000-05:00

These earrings came out GREAT! All sterling silver. Click the photo below to go to its listing. As always, mention 'blogger' at checkout in the 'notes to seller' box and you get $1.00 off. just wait for an adjusted invoice!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: JoeHavasy

2006-09-10T09:17:00.000-05:00

This week I'd like to give props to:

JoeHavasy

Fun, light-hearted, and full of energy! Here's one of my favs:

Be sure to check out the store!

Mystery Stone Earrings

2006-09-09T14:56:00.000-05:00

I'm incredibly happy with how these earrings turned out:

Click the photos to go to the item listing in my etsy store. Only $8.00!! Free shipping within the U.S. And remember, $1.00 off when you mention 'blogger' at checkout in the 'message to seller' box. just wait for an adjusted invoice before paying!

Wagglepop Auction

2006-09-06T16:12:00.000-05:00

So, I just discovered Wagglepop today and went ahead and set myself up on that site. I have one lonely auction there right now for this lovely set of bracelets:

Just click on the picture to view the listing and bid if you'd like! Starts at $.99! Now THAT'S a starting bid hard to beat!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: PreciousPups

2006-09-03T09:30:00.000-05:00

My spotlight seller this week is: PreciousPups

danielle maveal, preciouspups store owner, worked closely with my husband to create the perfect five-year anniversary band for me! includes five *sparkling* high-quality diamonds and four peridot (for the month of august--our anniversary month). made especially with me in mind :)

my hubbie worked with danielle after i showed her my existing set and other ring styles i liked. this ring couldn't be more perfect! i swear! the craftsmanship is absolutely flawless! so, be sure to check out her shop and contact her for all of your fine jewelry needs!

Dangling Goldstone

2006-08-29T17:52:00.000-05:00

Earrings with *sparkle*! Newly listed in my etsy store. Just click the photo to go to the item listing. And remember, $1.00 off when you mention 'blogger' at checkout in the 'message to seller' box. Just wait for an adjusted invoice!

Latest Listings in My Store

2006-08-28T19:19:00.000-05:00

I frequently list lots of paper beads. This particular one is a lot of 20. I love the process of making these. Plus, it's probably my most favorite way to recycle EVER! My paper beads are my most popular item; i sell more of these than anything else. Click on the photo to go to its listing. And, as always, $1.00 off when you mention 'blogger' at checkout in the 'message to seller' box.

New Items in my Etsy Store

2006-08-27T16:52:00.000-05:00

Today I added this great bracelet. Made with glass beads, wire, and a toggle clasp, it is surprisingly lightweight. Click the photo to get it now. $1.00 off when you mention 'blogger' at checkout in the 'message to seller' box.

and be sure to see the earrings that match!!!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: SRHarris

2006-08-26T22:35:00.000-05:00

i know, i know... i missed a week in here. my apologies! however, i must say that i have discovered SO many new favorite artists on etsy that i had a difficult time choosing one for my blog this week. on the bright side of things, i have several features lined up for awhile! LOL

anyways! here's who i chose for this week's spotlight seller:

http://SRHarris.etsy.com

i was absolutely *struck* by her piece, "Nightime"

i hope you enjoy her work as much as i have been!

How to Promote Your Website

2006-08-14T16:58:00.004-05:00

I've been incredibly active in promoting my Etsy store over the last few months. For those of you out there in need of ways to advertise, here are sites i have used or considered using. Many of these i obtained from the forums on etsy. others i've come across on my own. Others are online selling venues where you can set up shop and sell your wares! in any case, i hope they're helpful!

Advertise, Market, and Promote!

2-Surf
4-Every-1
4-Fun
43Things
4do
777Media

a1DirectorySearch
AbiFind
Abwa
Adsbay
Adwords
Art Industri
ArtistsRegistry
ArtsCollab
Artspots
Artzee
Awesomely Indie
A-Free-Directory
A-Web-Directory

Backpage
Be A Magpie
Blog Catalog
Blogger
Bloglines
BoingBoing
Boutique Cafe
Burdastyle
Bust

ClickThru
CMather
Comcast
Cracker
CraftersBuzz
CraftJuice
CraftOodles
Craft Site Directory
CraftyTips
Craigslist
Creativity Portal
Cuteable
Cutout and Keep

Delicious
Designs to Love
Deviant Art
Digg
DIY Scene
DMoz

Efx2
Electronic Cottage Gallery
Elfwood
Fabulous Artistic Moms
Etsy Mini Blog
Etsy Mini Supplies Blog
Expo.Live

Facebook
FameSource
Fashhh
Fashion Industry Network
Fashion Space
Flickr
Fogster
Found Handmade
Froogle

Get Crafty
Girl Shop Spot
Google

HelloMetro

IndieCollective
Indie Craftwall
Indie Discounts
Indiefixx
Indie Friendly
Indie Parade
Indiepublic
Indie Spotting
In Haute Pursuit

Jewelry Galore

Kaboodle
Kijiji

LinkedIn
LinkReferral
LinkTiles
LiveDeal
Livejournal Etsy Group
Lov.li
LunaCraft

Ma.gnolia
Modish
MostFashionable
MSN
MyArtPlot
My Craft
My Craftivity
MyLot
Myspace Etsy Group
Myspace

Nooz
Notebook in Hand

Oodle

Paper n’ Stitch
Plumdrop
Plurk
Poshpoints
Postaroo
Project Wonderful

Rate it All
Ravelry
RobotLaundry
Ryze

Scoutle
SearchSight
SeoCompany
Snap
Squidoo
StumbleUpon
StyleFeeder
StyleHive
SubmitExpress

Talent Database
Tao01
Technorati
TheHomeSampler
The Little Black Box
The Sampler
The Switchboards
ThisNext
Tribe
TuningIn
Twitter

UniversityChic
UsTrendy

VFlyer
ViewBug

We Love Etsy
Wickedly Chic
Wists
WorldInCatalog
World Artist Directory
World Wide Arts Resources

XLand

Yahoo
YourFreeLink
YourWebLogHere

z5-Directory
Zaadz
Zeezo
Zerovis

Set up Shop and Sell!
AokCorral
AnezkaHandmade
Art by Us
ArtsEFest

BigCartel
BluJay
Bouf
Bravenet
BuySellCommunity

CraftMall
CraftStorez

Dawanda

Ecrater
ePier
EZShoppes

Folksy
FreeCraftFair

GoodHandArts
GoZabo
Guild

HandMadeCatalog
HomeGrownMarket
HyenaCart

IOffer
ishopindie

Lov.li
LiveDeal

Made It Myself
Mintd
Modishoppe
MyArtPlot
MyMy
MyStore

Pinkdoodle
Poppytalk Handmade
PurplePinkandOrange

RubyLane

Shana Logic
Shopify
SmashingDarling
StrictlyHandmade

Trunkt

WagglePop
WorldInCatalog

YabbleBabble

Yessy

Zazzle

Happy marketing, promotion, and selling!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: BrownTown

2006-08-13T21:44:00.000-05:00

My seller in this week's spotlight is:

http://browntown.etsy.com

VERY intriguing artwork. This is a particular favorite of mine:

A little bit about me

2006-08-12T23:52:00.000-05:00

Although I'm using this blog as promo for etsy and my shop there-- http://jessprkle.etsy.com, I thought it might be nice to add just a little bit of info about me!

I'm 28, married, and currently living in Tallahassee, FL. I graduated this past May with my MS/EdS in Counseling and Human Systems. My emphases were in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. I had fabulous internships at the juvenile detention center and also at an alternative high school that focused largely on the arts. Now, I have a *real* job as a Mental Health Professional on a FACT team. That stands for "Florida Assertive Community-based Treatment". It's a treatment model for working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness. We assist individuals in the community to assist them in augmenting their abilities to live independently. I absolutely love my job; it's perfect. I wouldn't ask for a better place to work!

My husband is finishing up his DM in Classical Guitar. Once he's done, we're off to Chicago so I can start my PsyD in Clinical Psychology. Before moving to Tallie in 2003, we lived in Germany for two years. Prior to that, we were both at the Eastman School of Music, where I received my BM in Applied Music (Horn Performance) and Music Education (Instrumental).

I'm the oldest of eight children and love each of them dearly. They all hold special places in my heart. I have two cats named Jester and Tiger, i love animals, and i want to adopt a child one day.

Alrighty, well, that's it for now! I'll be posting my etsy seller spotlight later today.

Etsy Seller Spotlight: KendraBinney

2006-08-07T18:21:00.000-05:00

My featured seller this week is:

http://kendrabinney.etsy.com

i find the art in this store full of emotion. i like so many of the pieces! it's hard to choose only a couple to post here, but here we go:

"They're Saying Mean Things About You"

and "Rain"

I'm also a fan of these:
http://www.etsy.com/view_item.php?listing_id=353905
http://www.etsy.com/view_item.php?listing_id=359459
as well as the entire collection up for sale! geesh! i could go on and on. check out the store and decide for yourself!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: GlamourBomb

2006-07-30T21:26:00.000-05:00

Here we go! This week's seller in the spotlight is:

http://GlamourBomb.etsy.com

This shop struts some amazingly fun accessories. My fav is this hat:

There are also some super-duper boot covers and mittens in this incredible store. Oh! and dredfalls. LUV!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Phoot

2006-07-23T00:03:00.000-05:00

This week's seller in my spotlight is:

http://phoot.etsy.com

Her photos are A-Ma-Zing... 'nuff said. These two are my personal favs:

Working Hard...

2006-07-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

on marketing and promoting my etsy store. dang, it's hard work! but i'm hoping to see a pay-off in the end. as you can see on the right, i'm working on establishing myself on other sites. plus, i have a list of about 50 places i've listed my store. *phew* ... i need to stop staring at this computer screen before i lose my vision!!!

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Photoglassworks

2006-07-16T17:19:00.000-05:00

This week's featured seller is:
http://photoglassworks.etsy.com

i just love the pendants. especially this one:

be sure to check out the store!!!

2006-07-16T17:12:00.000-05:00

Here I am ... my first day on blogger. I intend to use this site as a source of networking with others while promoting my store on etsy. You can see my store here: http://jessprkle.etsy.com

I started on myspace with featuring a different etsy seller each week. I'm now moving that to this blog, so be sure to check in weekly for a peek at a new store. On my myspace blog, i have previously featured:

I'm in absolute LOVE with both of these sellers!