Having just spent a very enjoyable 5 days at a Craft Show, I thought this would be an opportune time to write a post helping other crafters with an idea of how to prepare for a craft fair and getting ready for a craft show.
Each year I take part in the Dorset Arts and Crafts Association Exhibition.
The first thing to consider is whether to undertake the event or not. So, from experience here's a list of questions to ask the event organiser.
1. How many events have you organised?
2. How many visitors do you expect?
3. What other stands will be at the event?
4. How many of each type of craft will be displaying
5. Is there an entrance fee?
6. Is it outdoors or indoors |where is it?
7. How is it advertised?
8. How much does a stand cost?
These questions will give you a good idea of whether to spend your hard earned money and time in the first place.
1. If they have never organised an event before - it's likely that you won't get a great deal of attendance and they won't know how to set up and advertise the craft show - they are orgainising it, to perhaps raise money for their chosen charity - in which case, they are just making their money on the entrance fees|stall fees and don't care whether you actually sell any of your goods or not.
2. If they struggle to answer this question or 'fudge' the answer then you know they haven't considered this and again, don't care if you sell anything or not as they're making their money from the stand fees initially
3 &4. Firstly you need to ascertain if the stands will be CRAFT or if they will be anybody and everybody who's willing to pay an entrance fee! If, like me you'd be selling silver jewellery and there's a stand at the event with imported "handmade silver jewellery" then I'd never attend. The imported handcrafted silver jewellery isn't hand crafted! It's machine made and a worker in the 3rd world or somewhere has used a pair of pliers to add a jump ring. There is no way I could compete on prices because it'll be "cheap and cheerful" and it also shows that the organisers don't care about craft - they just care about making their money. Then, if they are only accepting legitimate craft at their fair, then make sure they're not having too many of one type. How many times have you attended an event when every other table is selling beaded jewellery? So, double check (a) how many jewellery stands as a percentage of the overall show there is and then (b) check how many of your particular craft are displaying.
5. It's interesting to note if they charge for entrance - if they do, then question 7 is vital.
6. consider if the show will get passing trade or if it's somewhere where people would go out of their way to attend. If it's outdoors, what arrangements are in place to protect you and your goods from adverse weather?
7. If it's not advertised - then how will people know it's on? Have they advertised it in plenty of time before the event? Have they considered all the options that you know are available locally to you - e.g. local radio / free newspapers / posters / craft shops / local magazines - signs showing where the event is on the day. Check thoroughly how they intend to get people to come to see you
8. The deciding factor. If it only costs a small amount for the day and you aren't comfortable with some of their answers - well, it might be worth the risk for a day out and to gain experience of doing a craft fair. If it costs a lot of money - then you'll want to be sure that they've given good, solid answers to your questions.
The other option craft show organisers can use is a percentage of your takings and no stall fees. That perhaps is a good one to consider - after all if you don't make any money - neither will they!
Each piece of handcrafted jewellery is expertly handmade and imaginatively designed to ensure that you own a work of bespoke art.
Showing posts with label handmade silver jewellery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label handmade silver jewellery. Show all posts
Saturday, 10 August 2013
Saturday, 4 May 2013
New jewellery for summer and latest news
I've neglected my blog for a little while, so it's time to catch up with all the latest news and designs from the start of this year. Summer is on its way and the wedding season will be upon us very shortly too.
So, what's been happening in 2013 so far this year?
I hope you enjoy this small selection!
So, what's been happening in 2013 so far this year?
- My handmade silver jewellery is now being sold in some new areas of the UK.
All the Stars in the Sky from London is a retailer of my designs
Silver Seagull Ltd in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter has a wide range on sale too
I have also been approved by the prestigious Jewel Street and many new designs are available with them
- For the 3rd year running, I am a Craft and Design Selected Finalist
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| Lesley H Phillips - Finalist for Jewellery and Precious Metal |
- Many new designs / new trends this year
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| Silver Charm Bracelet |
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| Hammered Star Catcher Bangle |
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| Chunky Silver Bracelet for Men |
- Wedding Jewellery
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| AAA Grade Pearl Earrings |
Saturday, 10 November 2012
Protect Your Ideas and Designs - Handmade Business Tip of the Week
Looking after your original designs for your handmade craft.
As a crafter you will have plenty of ideas and designs - some of which you put into practice, make and then sell online. If you're selling online who do you know that these designs aren't being copied?
Well, in all honesty you don't! However, if you spot a design that you know you created what do you do?
1) When anyone is viewing your product, it's important to advise them that the design is protected from copying. The item is your intellectual property. The originator of the design owns it, unless they created it whilst being employed to make that design, in which case the employer owns it. So, if you have a website, why not put a note in the footer to state that your designs are protected and should not be copied. Selling on Etsy / Folksy - put a note at the bottom of each handcrafted item you upload.
2) Keep proof of when you designed the item. For instance, with my handmade silver jewellery - each photograph I take is dated and I also print the page when it was uploaded online together with full notes of how it was made. Therefore, the proof of the date is available if it is required.
3) What do you do if you see someone has copied your design? Send them notification that this is your design and that you have proof and they must desist or pay you a proportion of their sales in commission (the choice is yours).
If they don't respond send another notification to advise that you will take legal action.
If they don't respond to that - then the answer is to carry through with your threat.
Take a look at this link to the UK Copyright Service which relates specifically to Designs and your rights. Of course every country will be different, but the idea is the same no matter where you live.
Your Handmade Craft and Design Protection
As a crafter you will have plenty of ideas and designs - some of which you put into practice, make and then sell online. If you're selling online who do you know that these designs aren't being copied?
Well, in all honesty you don't! However, if you spot a design that you know you created what do you do?
1) When anyone is viewing your product, it's important to advise them that the design is protected from copying. The item is your intellectual property. The originator of the design owns it, unless they created it whilst being employed to make that design, in which case the employer owns it. So, if you have a website, why not put a note in the footer to state that your designs are protected and should not be copied. Selling on Etsy / Folksy - put a note at the bottom of each handcrafted item you upload.
2) Keep proof of when you designed the item. For instance, with my handmade silver jewellery - each photograph I take is dated and I also print the page when it was uploaded online together with full notes of how it was made. Therefore, the proof of the date is available if it is required.
3) What do you do if you see someone has copied your design? Send them notification that this is your design and that you have proof and they must desist or pay you a proportion of their sales in commission (the choice is yours).
If they don't respond send another notification to advise that you will take legal action.
If they don't respond to that - then the answer is to carry through with your threat.
Take a look at this link to the UK Copyright Service which relates specifically to Designs and your rights. Of course every country will be different, but the idea is the same no matter where you live.
Your Handmade Craft and Design Protection
Saturday, 20 October 2012
A Week in the News
This last week has been an interesting one. A bit like buses - nothing for ages and then they all come along at once!
It started off when I received an email from the Guild of Jewellery Designers to advise me that a bracelet of mine was featured for their Autumn/Winter Trends
Then, having written some articles for the GOJD regarding jewellers optimising their websites - this week they began their publication. So, when I looked at the home page of the GOJD's website - I seemed to be taking over!
It started off when I received an email from the Guild of Jewellery Designers to advise me that a bracelet of mine was featured for their Autumn/Winter Trends
Then, having written some articles for the GOJD regarding jewellers optimising their websites - this week they began their publication. So, when I looked at the home page of the GOJD's website - I seemed to be taking over!
Then I received a lovely email from Naomi (part of the Next Blogger's network) to say that she'd reviewed a pendant of mine and it was featured on her blog. What a lovely write up - she really couldn't have been nicer - thank you Naomi Take a look at One Heel Forward (17th October)
And as usual - this week's business tip for all small businesses out there!
Keep up to date in less time
It's important if you're in business to know what's happening in your industry. Sign up to Google accounts and set up 'Alerts' with your name and specific words. You will then be sent emails advising you of all the latest mentions on the internet. This allows you to track topics of interest and also if you're being mentioned in the press.
Search for your blogs and news sites which have a similar interest to your own and join them. Sign up to the RSS feed which will mean you'll receive updates as they happen
Friday, 12 October 2012
Put your Heart into Handmade - and a Business Tip
Putting your heart into handmade - this is undoubtedly what our crafters do, but if people were to think this way with their purchases then many small businesses with their talent and flair would do exceedingly well!
So, bearing in mind my theme - I'm going to feature a wonderful selection of hearts this week. All drawn from a handmade website and I hope that those who are not crafters will love them as much as I do.
1. Screen Print - Yeahnoyeah
2. Stonewear 'pebble decorations - jo lucksted ceramics
3. Patterned silver pendant - Handmade Silver Jewellery
4. Keyring - Polka Dot Sky
5. Driftwood, pebbles and shells - Free Range Designs
6. Liberty Print Brooch - Buttercup Boutique
7. Handmade Cushion - apple bloom crafts
8. Bleeding Heart Flower - littlelensphotography
9. Aluminium and Steel Sculpture - CK Automata
10.Notelet with Paper Buttons - Stuff N Nonsense
All the images have been reproduced on this blog, but remain the property of the artists concerned. The Design Rights to the items pictured are also attributed to the individual artists. Any misuse of these rights could result in court action.
Business Tip for the Artisans
When you're listing your items you will notice that you are asked for keywords. Do make sure that you make the most of this opprortunity. They have recently changed policy to enable the http:// address of your listed item to remain the same even when your item is sold and you update with another one. This means that you are far more likely to be found by a random search within Google or other search engines. By adding keywords to your listing, this gives the title of your item more 'pulling power' within the search by your potential customers.
So, bearing in mind my theme - I'm going to feature a wonderful selection of hearts this week. All drawn from a handmade website and I hope that those who are not crafters will love them as much as I do.
1. Screen Print - Yeahnoyeah
2. Stonewear 'pebble decorations - jo lucksted ceramics
3. Patterned silver pendant - Handmade Silver Jewellery
4. Keyring - Polka Dot Sky
5. Driftwood, pebbles and shells - Free Range Designs
6. Liberty Print Brooch - Buttercup Boutique
7. Handmade Cushion - apple bloom crafts
8. Bleeding Heart Flower - littlelensphotography
9. Aluminium and Steel Sculpture - CK Automata
10.Notelet with Paper Buttons - Stuff N Nonsense
All the images have been reproduced on this blog, but remain the property of the artists concerned. The Design Rights to the items pictured are also attributed to the individual artists. Any misuse of these rights could result in court action.
Business Tip for the Artisans
When you're listing your items you will notice that you are asked for keywords. Do make sure that you make the most of this opprortunity. They have recently changed policy to enable the http:// address of your listed item to remain the same even when your item is sold and you update with another one. This means that you are far more likely to be found by a random search within Google or other search engines. By adding keywords to your listing, this gives the title of your item more 'pulling power' within the search by your potential customers.
Saturday, 6 October 2012
Business Tip of the Week & Competition
This week's business tip is aimed at any small business, but naturally, me being a small business making handmade silver jewellery, it's also suitable for those people who handcraft their wares.
Pay per click advertising
Are you getting very few hits to your website? Have you considered pay per click advertising?
Google Adwords or Bing Advertising offer these services. As a small business, it can sometimes feel quite daunting paying out money daily for adverts with obviously very little guarantee of a return.
So, start small!
You can set your budget on a daily basis and you can also set the budget for the cost of each click. Do bear in mind, that if you set the budgets too low, then a) you'll only get 1 or 2 hits to your website or b) your advert will be so far down the list that it won't be seen .
Make the most of the number of words for the script that you'd like the customers to see and choose your keywords carefully. Broad keywords may well get lots of hits, but perhaps it's better to choose specific words in relation to your products - that way there's more of a chance tha a customer will purchase from you.
Competitions
Win with Handmade Silver Jewellery
Take a look at my website and try and solve the riddles! Competitions are added on a regular basis and are being run through my facebook page: Handmade Contemporary Silver Jewellery. A £5 gift voucher is up for grabs to the person who gets the answer correct. Solve the puzzle and work out from the clues which product I am referring to and you too could be a lucky winner.
Pay per click advertising
Are you getting very few hits to your website? Have you considered pay per click advertising?
Google Adwords or Bing Advertising offer these services. As a small business, it can sometimes feel quite daunting paying out money daily for adverts with obviously very little guarantee of a return.
So, start small!
You can set your budget on a daily basis and you can also set the budget for the cost of each click. Do bear in mind, that if you set the budgets too low, then a) you'll only get 1 or 2 hits to your website or b) your advert will be so far down the list that it won't be seen .
Make the most of the number of words for the script that you'd like the customers to see and choose your keywords carefully. Broad keywords may well get lots of hits, but perhaps it's better to choose specific words in relation to your products - that way there's more of a chance tha a customer will purchase from you.
Competitions
Win with Handmade Silver Jewellery
Take a look at my website and try and solve the riddles! Competitions are added on a regular basis and are being run through my facebook page: Handmade Contemporary Silver Jewellery. A £5 gift voucher is up for grabs to the person who gets the answer correct. Solve the puzzle and work out from the clues which product I am referring to and you too could be a lucky winner.
Saturday, 22 September 2012
What's New? Jewellery and Fashion
A change to my usual blog this week with an update of all things new.
Also, a refreshing piece of news that men are becoming more sophisticated - in the world of jewellery that is!
Also, a refreshing piece of news that men are becoming more sophisticated - in the world of jewellery that is!

The first new feature on my website is the Gift Voucher Section. A perfect present for someone who likes to choose their own jewellery or for the purchaser if you just keep getting it wrong!!!
Secondly, I am now an International Wholesaler following a Company in Hong Kong placing orders for their 3 retail outlets.
The news on men? The tide is changing inasmuch that men are losing interest in leather jewellery, skulls and such like, preferring now to choose more sophisticated, styled jewellery. This is perhaps supported by a recent commission for a pair of solid silver cufflinks, designed by the client and reflecting a lava trail on a mountain side.
Saturday, 15 September 2012
Do you want to improve your business? - Handmade Workers
Every week I offer tips and hints to help handmade craftspeople improve their business. There are so many quality items produced by the home workers, beavering away in their studios or spare room - but so often they just don't know how to market it. There's only so much that can be made without the need to sell some of your wares - and this is where my handmade silver jewellery blog will help.
Listen to what your customers want
Why not ask your customers what they think about your products? Try doing this every six months and ask them what they think are the good and bad points. You can contact them by email or at the events you attend. Conduct market research to see what you should change. Then take action!
Not only is this a good way of improving your products, but it makes your customers feel that their opinion is valued and they are more likely to want to do business with you.
All business is not necessarily good business!
Whilst you might want to please all the customers you have conducted market research with, you don't have to. If a customer has stated that they would like something that will take hours and hours and hours to make, but they wouldn't be willing to pay the price for your time - then can you afford to do it? If you're trying to turn your hobby into a business, then the answer must clearly be a resounding 'no'.
Customers and projects which are causing you sleepless nights should be reviewed and you should decide if you want to put yourself under that pressure.
Why not ask your customers what they think about your products? Try doing this every six months and ask them what they think are the good and bad points. You can contact them by email or at the events you attend. Conduct market research to see what you should change. Then take action!
Not only is this a good way of improving your products, but it makes your customers feel that their opinion is valued and they are more likely to want to do business with you.
All business is not necessarily good business!
Whilst you might want to please all the customers you have conducted market research with, you don't have to. If a customer has stated that they would like something that will take hours and hours and hours to make, but they wouldn't be willing to pay the price for your time - then can you afford to do it? If you're trying to turn your hobby into a business, then the answer must clearly be a resounding 'no'.
Customers and projects which are causing you sleepless nights should be reviewed and you should decide if you want to put yourself under that pressure.
Saturday, 8 September 2012
Handmade Saturday Showcase - Business Tip for crafters
What is it about handmade work that people like? Most of all it's the individuality of each item - for genuine handmade craft no two pieces can ever be the same. Secondly the buyer knows that much love and care has gone into it - Can money put a price on it? In all honesty it's most likely priceless to the artist, but I have trawled the UK and found some exquisite items which ARE for sale and I have compiled a showcase of these items here today.
Does anyone want to try and guess my theme ?
1. Bird cage tidy - Pin and Pen
2. Hand dyed cotton art - Downland Originals
3. Owl cushion - Charming Jewellery and Accessories
4. Butterfly keepsake box - Kippers Keepsakes
5. Cotton print handbag - Ann Chandler Originals
6. Pin cushion - The Home Made Boutique
7. Silver pendant - Handmade Silver Jewellery UK
8. Bowl clock - Wonky Fox
9. Oak Tamper - Works-in-Wood
10.Hand thrown deep bowl - Epple Bay Ceramics
Business Tip for Crafters
Donate your expertise
Your chosen skill probably has plenty of associations / organisations which distribute newsletters or have blogs. By offering your opinions and expertise by writing an article or being a guest blogger is a great way to boost your business. It will attract new customers and show that you are a leader in your field.
Articles offering hints and tips, best practices, questions and answers or case studes always prove interesting to the reader.
Does anyone want to try and guess my theme ?
1. Bird cage tidy - Pin and Pen
2. Hand dyed cotton art - Downland Originals
3. Owl cushion - Charming Jewellery and Accessories
4. Butterfly keepsake box - Kippers Keepsakes
5. Cotton print handbag - Ann Chandler Originals
6. Pin cushion - The Home Made Boutique
7. Silver pendant - Handmade Silver Jewellery UK
8. Bowl clock - Wonky Fox
9. Oak Tamper - Works-in-Wood
10.Hand thrown deep bowl - Epple Bay Ceramics
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| Handmade |
The designs for the items featured remain the intellectual property rights of the artists who have made them. Any infringement of their rights could result action being taken.
Business Tip for Crafters
Donate your expertise
Your chosen skill probably has plenty of associations / organisations which distribute newsletters or have blogs. By offering your opinions and expertise by writing an article or being a guest blogger is a great way to boost your business. It will attract new customers and show that you are a leader in your field.
Articles offering hints and tips, best practices, questions and answers or case studes always prove interesting to the reader.
Saturday, 1 September 2012
Do you have your own online shop? Then read on....
Do you have your own online shop?
If you do, then you'll want to read this.....
If you have your own website, are adding products to a shopping system, such as Etsy or Folksy or even advertising your online shop this is a blog for you
Tips to improve and to gain your customer's attention
Proof read what you have written
You know what it's like when you see typing errors on a website, an ad or an article - the author loses credibility. Don't make this mistake!
When you are writing, make sure it is grammatically correct and error-free. Automatically read it back and often read it out loud to yourself to ensure it sounds correct too.
Even a small mistake can cause mistrust and lose you a shopper. If you take the extra bit of time to double check what you have written then your customers will have more trust in you.
Improve your SEO
If you don't know what SEO is, then you most definitely need to read this next tip!
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation. You could have the best website / online shop in the world, but if no-one can find it then it's all a waste of your time.
Increase your chances of being found with potential customers search online by reviewing your page titles for every page of your website or shop. Keep the following in mind:
- When customers search, your page title appears in the first line of the search results, so make them interesting enough for customers to want to click.
- Ensure the search engines can find them, by making them descriptive and including terms within them that you'd like to be found for
- Write a different page title for every product in your online shop or for your own website
My experience of SEO stems from having my own website and online shop for my handmade silver jewellery and developing my knowledge over the last 6 or 7 years whilst I have been running it.
Saturday, 25 August 2012
A handmade gift guide - business tip for craftspeople
This week's handmade gift guide
Each week I choose a theme and select the handmade items I love the most. This week from around the UK, I've found some treasures... Given that we've not had much in the way of sun this year, I do feel that my theme is quite apt. Wasn't it lucky it stayed dry for most of the Olympics. Let's hope it follows the same pattern for the paralympics. Anyone want to have a guess what the theme is for this week?
Do enjoy my chosen items - all of which would make perfect gifts or even to say thank you for a gift - or just because you'd like to treat yourself!
1. Thank you gift cards - photography & design
2. Wading birds - LouMay Books
3. Water Ripples - ElisaMAmorCreations
4. Village Print - Janice Jong Art & Illustration
5. Compact Mirror - The Clockwork Jewel
6. Drink Champagne - Deliart - Beautiful Art Block Prints
7. Anemone water colour - Oakapple & Rose
8. Aquamarine waterfall pendant - Handmade Silver Pendant UK
Please be aware that the artists who have made and designed these items hold the copyright and design rights to them.
Alternatively, you could offer a small incentive for your existing customers, say 10% off their next purchase.
And Finally....... A small business tip
Look after your existing customers
Did you know that 20% of your existing customers will buy from you again because they already know you and trust you? So create a reason why they should buy from you again. Offer products which complement each other in a product range. For example, if they purchase a pendant do you have matching earrings or bracelet? If so, show them these when they're buying the pendant or let them know that these are available when you contact them in the future.Alternatively, you could offer a small incentive for your existing customers, say 10% off their next purchase.
Labels:
art,
books,
bracelet,
business tip,
compact mirror,
earrings,
french beading,
handcrafted material,
handmade silver jewellery,
illustration,
knitting,
pendant,
photo,
silver jewellery,
small business,
watercolour
Saturday, 18 August 2012
Go Green! - plus a business tip
The birthstone for August is Peridot - a stunning green gemstone. So, drawing inspiration from the month we're in - I'm running a green blog this week. How many people thought I was running an eco friendly blog this week then?
I have delved into handmade items from around the UK to find my favourites in the colour green. Enjoy!
1. A collage - Loganberry Photography
2. Green Man - Daves Woodcraft
3. Flower Studs - Grass Fields
4. Gecko Picture - Handmade by D.
5. Humming Bird - Rustic Green
6. Cushion - Courtyards Crafts
7. Peridot Earrings - Silver Jewellery
8. Felt Rosette - Hooperhart
9. Original Fabric on Canvas - J.A. Wilson
10. Hand knitted Dress - josknits
All the items which I have chosen to feature are the property of the designers who've made them. As such, they will own the rights to their designs and this prohibits any copying - accidental or otherwise.
Business TipFor the craftspeople who are running their own business - I hope you find your weekly business tip useful.
Do you have a tough decision to make? If so, go and do some exercise! Sound odd? Well, studies have shown that people who work out regularly are better decision makers. One study tested 80 people over an 9 month period and results showed that the exercisers ability to make complex decisions had increased 70% over those who weren't exercising.
I have delved into handmade items from around the UK to find my favourites in the colour green. Enjoy!
1. A collage - Loganberry Photography
2. Green Man - Daves Woodcraft
3. Flower Studs - Grass Fields
4. Gecko Picture - Handmade by D.
5. Humming Bird - Rustic Green
6. Cushion - Courtyards Crafts
7. Peridot Earrings - Silver Jewellery
8. Felt Rosette - Hooperhart
9. Original Fabric on Canvas - J.A. Wilson
10. Hand knitted Dress - josknits
All the items which I have chosen to feature are the property of the designers who've made them. As such, they will own the rights to their designs and this prohibits any copying - accidental or otherwise.
Business TipFor the craftspeople who are running their own business - I hope you find your weekly business tip useful.
Do you have a tough decision to make? If so, go and do some exercise! Sound odd? Well, studies have shown that people who work out regularly are better decision makers. One study tested 80 people over an 9 month period and results showed that the exercisers ability to make complex decisions had increased 70% over those who weren't exercising.
Labels:
bird,
business tip,
canvas,
cushion,
felt,
gecko,
handcrafted,
handmade,
handmade silver jewellery,
knit,
peridot earrings,
photograph,
silver jewellery,
small business,
stud earrings,
woodcraft
Saturday, 11 August 2012
Sensational Saturday the Second - A Handmade One! - Weekly Business Tip
Following last week's Sensational Saturday for Great Britain at the Olympics (wow! wasn't it gripping?), I'm now ensuring we have a second one featuring sensational handmade Olympic items - well, what else could I feature in this week's blog?
Mo Farrar running Saturday 11th August with the hope of yet another GB Gold resting on his shoulders Tom Daly diving, 2 British boxers qualifying for the final on Sunday 12th - definite silvers to add to the ever increasing medal tally, it certainly makes you proud to be British. So, I'm now showing just how great we are in everything that we do!
1. Olympic Lavender Sachet - GingerBeer Designs
2. We Were There... Sign - Signs For Every Occasion
3. Red, White and Blue Silver Earrings - Handmade Silver Jewellery UK
4. Flag Bib - Dribble Drool Bibs
5. Britain Heart Keyring - An Owl to the Hollow
6. Union Jack Felt Flower Brooch - Sew Crafty
7. Olympics Cake Toppers - Charlotte Jane Cakes
8. British Pincushion - Spindleberry
9. Inspire a Generation Card - Dilley Crafts
10. London Map Cushion Cover - KateModern
All the items pictured are the property of the people who designed them and as such, own the property rights to their original designs. Any infringement of their rights could be pursued in a court of law
Weekly Business Tip for Crafters
Eliminate the time wasters...
What do you do that wastes your time? Take a look at your day and begin a list and review what you do that could make you more productive and takes up unnecessary time. Here's one example: clutter on your workbench /desk? How often do you spend looking for something which if you tidied up and had all your equipment in a known place would save you time?
Mo Farrar running Saturday 11th August with the hope of yet another GB Gold resting on his shoulders Tom Daly diving, 2 British boxers qualifying for the final on Sunday 12th - definite silvers to add to the ever increasing medal tally, it certainly makes you proud to be British. So, I'm now showing just how great we are in everything that we do!
1. Olympic Lavender Sachet - GingerBeer Designs
2. We Were There... Sign - Signs For Every Occasion
3. Red, White and Blue Silver Earrings - Handmade Silver Jewellery UK
4. Flag Bib - Dribble Drool Bibs
5. Britain Heart Keyring - An Owl to the Hollow
6. Union Jack Felt Flower Brooch - Sew Crafty
7. Olympics Cake Toppers - Charlotte Jane Cakes
8. British Pincushion - Spindleberry
9. Inspire a Generation Card - Dilley Crafts
10. London Map Cushion Cover - KateModern
All the items pictured are the property of the people who designed them and as such, own the property rights to their original designs. Any infringement of their rights could be pursued in a court of law
Weekly Business Tip for Crafters
Eliminate the time wasters...
What do you do that wastes your time? Take a look at your day and begin a list and review what you do that could make you more productive and takes up unnecessary time. Here's one example: clutter on your workbench /desk? How often do you spend looking for something which if you tidied up and had all your equipment in a known place would save you time?
Saturday, 14 July 2012
Support Handmade in the UK
This week's blog is for all to guess my chosen theme.
Once again, I've search Folksy and found some stunning items - but at least this week they're still all for sale as I haven't beaten you to it and bought one of the featured items!
So what's the theme? - send a comment telling me what you think it is
The talent in the UK is amazing and for people who don't craft - there's some real delights for you to see this week.
Considering that the artists who make the items each week all run their own small businesses, I'm adding tip each time for which will I hope prove useful to the artisans too.
1. Sailing cushion - Jenny Harris Designs
2. Felt picture on Linen - Dollydoo
3.Silver Boat Pendant - Silver Jewellery
4. Badges - CraftsCouncil
5. Canvas Bag - Handmaid
6. Art Photograph - Paradici
7. Vintage Fabric Picture - LouTonkin - Artist
8. Art Card - Megan Claire
9. Coaster - The Mosaic Garden
10. T-Shirt - Rusks and Rebels
Tip of the week
Respond promptly to requests for information / posting your sold items
Many large businesses lack the personal touch and this is where small businesses have the upper hand. However, the key is to ensure that you don't leave your customers waiting.
When customers request information/ have bought one of your items, they expect a quick response. When you fail to to do - due to poor organisation, incorrect contacts or a busy schedule - customers are left feeling abandoned and most likely won't do business with you now or in the future.
All the work and designs on this blog are copyrighted to the artist and any infringement of this could result in action being taken.
Once again, I've search Folksy and found some stunning items - but at least this week they're still all for sale as I haven't beaten you to it and bought one of the featured items!
So what's the theme? - send a comment telling me what you think it is
The talent in the UK is amazing and for people who don't craft - there's some real delights for you to see this week.
Considering that the artists who make the items each week all run their own small businesses, I'm adding tip each time for which will I hope prove useful to the artisans too.
1. Sailing cushion - Jenny Harris Designs
2. Felt picture on Linen - Dollydoo
3.Silver Boat Pendant - Silver Jewellery
4. Badges - CraftsCouncil
5. Canvas Bag - Handmaid
6. Art Photograph - Paradici
7. Vintage Fabric Picture - LouTonkin - Artist
8. Art Card - Megan Claire
9. Coaster - The Mosaic Garden
10. T-Shirt - Rusks and Rebels
Tip of the week
Respond promptly to requests for information / posting your sold items
Many large businesses lack the personal touch and this is where small businesses have the upper hand. However, the key is to ensure that you don't leave your customers waiting.
When customers request information/ have bought one of your items, they expect a quick response. When you fail to to do - due to poor organisation, incorrect contacts or a busy schedule - customers are left feeling abandoned and most likely won't do business with you now or in the future.
All the work and designs on this blog are copyrighted to the artist and any infringement of this could result in action being taken.
Saturday, 30 June 2012
The Colour of Summer
Having finished Dorset Art Weeks Open Studios (a 16 day long event), I finally have my life back and can continue with my weekly blog.
This week I'm sure the theme won't be at all hard to guess and I've found some stunning items on Folksy again for your delight.
I'll look forward to hearing from my fellow bloggers with their ideas and creativity. There is some really amazing quality handmade and handcrafted items in the UK and I only wish I could bring them all to this page - but each week, I'll endeavour to bring just a few for you all to enjoy.
1. Handmade Tutu - Strawberry Annie's
2. Cardigan - Niftyneedles
3. Handcrafted Card - Something Special by Mars x
4. Lace Gauntlet - Tricot Treats by Helen Dey
5. Felt Owl - Mousey Makes
6. Nu Baroque Mug - Russell Paige Ceramics
7. Handcrafted Earrings - Lesley H Phillips Handcrafted Silver Jewellery
8. Fibre Felt Purse - by sally
9. Personalised Face Cloth - K G Designs
10. Patchwork Handbag - Handbags by Helen
Please do note that all the designs featured on this blog are the designers own work and as such they hold the Design Rights to them. Any breach of these Design Rights can result in pursual by the artists concerned.
I'm sure you'll agree that this week's array is a wonderful example of the talent that we have in the United Kingdom and I'll wait to hear from you as to what you think the theme for this week is!
This week I'm sure the theme won't be at all hard to guess and I've found some stunning items on Folksy again for your delight.
I'll look forward to hearing from my fellow bloggers with their ideas and creativity. There is some really amazing quality handmade and handcrafted items in the UK and I only wish I could bring them all to this page - but each week, I'll endeavour to bring just a few for you all to enjoy.
1. Handmade Tutu - Strawberry Annie's
2. Cardigan - Niftyneedles
3. Handcrafted Card - Something Special by Mars x
4. Lace Gauntlet - Tricot Treats by Helen Dey
5. Felt Owl - Mousey Makes
6. Nu Baroque Mug - Russell Paige Ceramics
7. Handcrafted Earrings - Lesley H Phillips Handcrafted Silver Jewellery
8. Fibre Felt Purse - by sally
9. Personalised Face Cloth - K G Designs
10. Patchwork Handbag - Handbags by Helen
Please do note that all the designs featured on this blog are the designers own work and as such they hold the Design Rights to them. Any breach of these Design Rights can result in pursual by the artists concerned.
I'm sure you'll agree that this week's array is a wonderful example of the talent that we have in the United Kingdom and I'll wait to hear from you as to what you think the theme for this week is!
Saturday, 26 May 2012
I'm not going to be able to run my feature of British handmade craft for the next 2 - 3 weeks unless I suddenly find some time from somewhere! - so it might be a surprise appearance, because I'm particpating in Dorset Art Weeks 2012 from 26th May - 10th June Open Studio and Venues event. I'm running mine from my business address which unfortuantely doesn't have a reliable connection to the internet and absolutely no signal for mobile internet.
However, if you are interested in having a look around - do take a look at Dorset Art Weeks on Google - over 600 artists and crafters in Dorset have opened their doors for the duration.
However, if you are interested in having a look around - do take a look at Dorset Art Weeks on Google - over 600 artists and crafters in Dorset have opened their doors for the duration.

Saturday, 14 April 2012
New Shopping Directory for Craft People
I've been included on a new shopping directory for craft people.
http://www.directorylisting.weebly.com/
http://www.directorylisting.weebly.com/
It seems a great way for designers and artists, like myself http://www.lesleyhphillips.co.uk/ to have a listing in several categories available, have a picture and a description just for putting one link on the site. The best bit of it being it's FREE And also that for the link on a home page, then as the directory is being marketed elsewhere the links are being distributed through the designers who are listed. This means that we get the benefit of more links to our site, than just the one from the directory.
What a clever idea to get link building working for us as designers.
Saturday, 31 March 2012
Craft and Design Newsletter
The lastest edition of the Craft and Design Newsletter is available to read on my website - Handmade Silver Jewellery.
An interesting read - with the design month of May fast approaching it's great to see what's happening in the world of Handmade Jewellery and all sorts of other mediums.
Prince Charles is featured in the March edition - do enjoy it!
http://www.lesleyhphillips.co.uk/informationjewellery.html
An interesting read - with the design month of May fast approaching it's great to see what's happening in the world of Handmade Jewellery and all sorts of other mediums.
Prince Charles is featured in the March edition - do enjoy it!
http://www.lesleyhphillips.co.uk/informationjewellery.html
Sunday, 25 March 2012
Jewellery Care - Cleaning Silver Jewellery
www.lesleyhphillips.co.uk/cleaningsilver
As a natural material, silver reacts with its environment, especially the chemicals in the air and, over time, silver can tarnish. (known as oxidation). This doesn’t mean that your lovely jewellery is defective, far from it, it just proves that your beautiful accessory is good quality silver.
* Perfume, soap, hairspray, salt water, water and heat, household cleaning products and perspiration all speed up the tarnishing process.
* Leaving silver unprotected in the air may cause the silver to lose its shine. Preventable if not worn frequently by sealing in an air tight container.
* Please note that chlorine can seriously damage the silver.
Oxidation is an easily reversable process and the silver can always be cleaned to bring it back to its former glory, so there's no need to be concerned. Cleaning the silver when it begins to tarnish will obviously be an easier task. If it's left too long and turns completely black then it may require professional cleaning.
An inexpensive silver polishing cloth can be used to gently rub your jewellery or alternatively silver dip may be used (both are available from any high street jeweller). Please ensure you follow the instructions on the pot if you use silver dip. Do not use silver dip with purposely oxidised /drop cast/ enamelled jewellery or with gemstones. Gemstones that are particularly affected by silver dip are pearls, sodalite, malachite, lapis lazuli, white opals, turquoise or any soft or porous stones. Some high street jewellers sell combination silver and gold polishing cloths and these are perfect for jewellery I make with the touches of 9ct gold. The specialised cleaning cloths are impregnated with cleaning and anti-tarnishing agents, so a normal soft cloth will not provide the same results.
It is advisable to ensure you don't damage your jewellery to remove it at night, when swimming, bathing or undertaking manual or domestic tasks.
Store your jewellery in an air tight container. Also store separately from other items as this will also prevent scratches from items rubbing together.
If you always remember to get ready first (make up, hairspray, perfume) and then put on your jewellery you can assist in keeping your silver jewellery bright and beautiful for many years to come.
www.lesleyhphillips.co.uk
As a natural material, silver reacts with its environment, especially the chemicals in the air and, over time, silver can tarnish. (known as oxidation). This doesn’t mean that your lovely jewellery is defective, far from it, it just proves that your beautiful accessory is good quality silver.
* Perfume, soap, hairspray, salt water, water and heat, household cleaning products and perspiration all speed up the tarnishing process.
* Leaving silver unprotected in the air may cause the silver to lose its shine. Preventable if not worn frequently by sealing in an air tight container.
* Please note that chlorine can seriously damage the silver.
Oxidation is an easily reversable process and the silver can always be cleaned to bring it back to its former glory, so there's no need to be concerned. Cleaning the silver when it begins to tarnish will obviously be an easier task. If it's left too long and turns completely black then it may require professional cleaning.
An inexpensive silver polishing cloth can be used to gently rub your jewellery or alternatively silver dip may be used (both are available from any high street jeweller). Please ensure you follow the instructions on the pot if you use silver dip. Do not use silver dip with purposely oxidised /drop cast/ enamelled jewellery or with gemstones. Gemstones that are particularly affected by silver dip are pearls, sodalite, malachite, lapis lazuli, white opals, turquoise or any soft or porous stones. Some high street jewellers sell combination silver and gold polishing cloths and these are perfect for jewellery I make with the touches of 9ct gold. The specialised cleaning cloths are impregnated with cleaning and anti-tarnishing agents, so a normal soft cloth will not provide the same results.
It is advisable to ensure you don't damage your jewellery to remove it at night, when swimming, bathing or undertaking manual or domestic tasks.
Store your jewellery in an air tight container. Also store separately from other items as this will also prevent scratches from items rubbing together.
If you always remember to get ready first (make up, hairspray, perfume) and then put on your jewellery you can assist in keeping your silver jewellery bright and beautiful for many years to come.
www.lesleyhphillips.co.uk
Saturday, 17 March 2012
The Guild of Jewellery Designers - Guilded Gems

I spent in total 8 months designing and building this website and was very pleased that the desired results had been achieved when Jayne mentioned it looked 'luxurious'.
We discussed the thought processes and the decisions I had made with regards to its build and most importantly the importance of SEO and marketing of it. Without which, there is very little point in having a website. She stated that she sees many Guild Member's websistes that have been built for them and not the customer and it was not only the look, but this factorshe liked. Mine is most definitely directed towards making the customer's experience an easy and nice experience to shop.
When the article is released, I'll post a link for all to read
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