Promoting Your Indie Biz

Today I am guest blogging over on the Sunday Afternoon Housewife blog. I wrote about how to promote your indie biz. Check out the article here.

Creative Block

We've all had periods where we feel totally UN-inspired & have a bit of creative block. I felt that way recently & asked on Funky Finds' Facebook page what you do when you feel that way. Some suggested taking a break from crafting altogether, but many suggested visiting Pinterest for tons of inspiration.

Are you on Pinterest? If not, let me warn you now...the site is highly addictive & a complete time suck! But, definitely a great place for tons of inspiration. If you currently utilize Pinterest, please leave a link to your boards. I'd love to see what you've discovered! Here's where you can find my "pins."

Lauren said...Pintrest.com!! :D i get inspired there :D

Marti said...I take some time off..I walk away from the craft table when I'm really not in the zone. Orrrr...I'll listen to my favorite music in my craft room or journaling always helps me get back into the groove."

Brandi said...I force myself to do something mundane or tedious (like laundry or balancing the bank account) - it almost immediately reminds me how much i enjoy being creative.

Maria said...That usually happens to me when i craft non-stop - I just take a break from it - usually a very, very short break! LOL =)

Casey said...I second pinterest.com. Also, going to thrift stores can help, too. Going through the old dresses and skirts, there's always really fun or funky patterns and colors going on.

Unrepeatables.com said...I also love pinterest! I'm also a big fan of really bright home improvement magazines- the color is like a shot of creative adrenaline!

Sadie's Everyday said...Pinterest is good to help break the block, also just browsing Etsy! Going shopping helps me, to see trends, etc.

And be sure to check out this article on Handmadeology that has tips to help with creativity block.

Guest Blog at Sunday Afternoon Housewife

Each month I write an article that is featured on the Sunday Afternoon Housewife blog. Since it's so darn hot here in the US, I decided to blog about outdoor craft show tips this month. Head over to Martha Latta's blog to read my tips & download a handy dandy Craft Show Checklist! While you're there, be sure to read about Martha's Kickstarter project, The Culture of Craft. And you can find more craft show tips that are applicable to all kinds of events on this Funky Finds page.

Helpful & Inspiring Blogs

I read TONS of blogs & wanted to share a few with you today. These blogs are very helpful to creatives and those running a small business.

1. Blacksburg Belle is a blog that aims to help creative women lead more fulfilling lives while doing what they love. Written by April & Linda, the site is frequently filled with tips on how to reach your goals, interviews with small biz owners, and much more. Facebook

2. Imaginative Bloom is where I first learned of April Bowles-Olin of Blacksburg Belle. She is a regular contributor to the site & shares equally important information & tips on this site, too. Facebook

3. The Handmade Business Blog is written by Sheryl Westleigh, a sculptor & jewelry designer from Maine. She shares videos & information that covers topics like how to handle copyright issues and how to use Google Analytics on your blog.

4. Just Something I Made is full of great craft ideas, free downloads and more. Check out the DIY Projects by Cathe section for past projects the author has shared. Facebook

5. A Beautiful Mess is Elsie Flannigan's blog. I'm sure you all know who Elsie is, but in case you don't, she's a young, inspiring entrepreneur who shares lots of good info & eye candy on her blog. Facebook

6. Whether you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth (Texas) area or not, DFW Craft Shows is a great source for those who sell at craft shows. Don't miss the helpful articles relating to the Craft Show Survival Kit! And, if you are in the DFW area, check the site frequently for updated craft show info. Facebook

7. Martha Latta of Sunday Afternoon Housewife always shares helpful info on her blog, too. I've learned a lot about Twitter, LinkWithin, and much more by reading Martha's articles. I also guest blog over there once a month! Facebook

DIY Life

DIY Life is a helpful website that highlights the best in "do-it-yourself" projects. You'll find all types of projects from hobbies and crafts to home improvement and tech. There's an article detailing 7 Fall-Inspired Crafts, as well as an article that tells how to keep bananas fresh. Thanksgiving hosts and hostesses are sure to enjoy the Countdown to Thanksgiving tips, too. And pet owners don't want to miss the sister site Paw Nation for lots of pet information, including a how-to regarding the trimming of your cat's claws. Now THAT'S a true DIY project!

Tip Junkie's Mom-prenuer Holiday Shop-a-thon

Tip Junkie is a very cool site where you will find all sorts of tips, including craft projects, decorating ideas, online giveaways & much more. One exciting feature this holiday shopping season is Tip Junkie's Mom-prenuer Holiday Shop-a-thon. This is a directory featuring women-owned businesses that fit into various categories ranging from accessories to vintage. The purpose of the Mom-prenuer Shop-a-thon is to feature unique, fun, and creative gifts you can purchase for your friends, family and yourself this holiday season while supporting these amazing women. And be sure to browse Tip Junkie for lots of other exciting & useful information & tips.