My Crafting Room

Ok, so it really isn't a whole room, more like a section of my laundry room. When we renovated the basement, having a craft area was one of the requirements. Who cares about a place to iron, where can I put my beads?? I didn't want to spend a lot of money on the area either, so I tried to find the best deals possible. This is what I came up with:

• I was able to get a cabinet and countertop at Habitat for Humanity's ReStore for under $20. I use this cabinet to store my photo props and hold my light setup.
• Since I had recently moved out of my townhouse when I got married, I used my old dresser as a storage area also. I bought the dresser at the Penn State Surplus when I was a senior for $5.
• Also from my previous townhouse, I used the plastic pantry shelves and clear storage drawers to hold additional materials.
• Topping everything off  were two sheets of pegboard that I bought at Home Depot for $6 each and some hooks to go on the pegboard.

Now I have an area that I can keep my bead boxes, a place for my light table, and hooks for all of my bead strings. I also do scrapbooking as a hobby, and the shelves provided a perfect place to put those supplies. Everything is organized.

The craft area is a continually-evolving venture, and any ideas or suggestions would be welcome. Do you have a craft area or a craft room that you would like to share? I would love to see it! 

Check out my finished product:

P.S. That is my cat, Tiger, who is hiding on the shelf!

Waiting for the First Sale

I opened my Etsy store about two weeks ago. Now I am just waiting on my first sale — which seems to be the frustration of many new Etsy sellers. Waiting and patience are the hardest things in this business. Of course, it is my goal to eventually make enough with my jewelry in order to assist in the household expenses down the road. I love reading the success stories of people who were able to quit their day jobs and craft full time. Does anyone have any success stories? How were you able to get your shop to take off? Please share in the comments section!

Art for a Cause Treasury

Last night I created my first Etsy treasury. This one was titled Art for a Cause. I admire the many artists on Etsy who donate some or all of their proceeds to charity. That is why I decided to make this treasury.

My pink crystal Breast Cancer bracelet is featured in the treasury. 10% from the proceeds of this bracelet go to the Susan G. Koman for the Cure. I've also included free shipping on the bracelet, so go out and check it out in my store, and give the other generous artists in this great treasury a look as well.

Welcome: A Little Bit About Me and My Art

My name is Rachel and I specialize in handmade jewelry — especially dangle bracelets, tile pendants, and typewriter jewelry.

I have a regular day job working in public relations. I am trying to get my jewelry business off the ground so I can have a little bit of extra income, and also to support my craft!

I'm married with a stepson, four cats, one dog, and several lizards (which are my husband's and stepson's!). I'm sure that you will hear lots more about my dog and cats, as they are always into something and a continuous source of entertainment — and frustration!

In addition to my blog I also have a shop on Etsy and do local craft shows. Come check out my store and let me know what you think!