Lori Collins, Author at DIY Arts and Crafts

Are you ready to unleash your creativity and take your crafting projects to the next level? If so, it’s time to get acquainted with Cricut! In this guide, we will walk you through the process of getting started with Cricut and provide you with essential tips, techniques, and information to make the most of this versatile crafting tool.

Introduction

Crafting has always been a popular way to express creativity, and with the advent of technology, new tools have emerged to make the process even more exciting and efficient. Cricut is a cutting-edge machine that has revolutionized the world of crafting. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crafter, Cricut offers endless possibilities to bring your ideas to life.

What is Cricut?

Cricut is a brand that produces electronic cutting machines designed for various crafting purposes. These machines utilize precision blades to cut a wide range of materials, including paper, vinyl, fabric, and even thin wood. What sets Cricut apart is its integration with technology, as it allows you to control the cutting process using computer software and design files.

Types of Cricut Machines

Before diving into the world of Cricut crafting, it’s important to understand the different types of Cricut machines available. Currently, there are three main models: Cricut Joy, Cricut Explore Air 2, and Cricut Maker. Each machine has its unique features and capabilities, catering to different crafting needs and skill levels.

Cricut Joy: The smallest and most portable option, perfect for quick and small-scale projects.
Cricut Explore Air 2: A versatile machine suitable for a wide range of materials and projects.
Cricut Maker: The ultimate powerhouse, capable of handling intricate designs and cutting thicker materials.

Getting to Know Your Cricut Machine

Once you’ve chosen the Cricut machine that suits your needs, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with its components and functions. This includes understanding the buttons, ports, and basic setup requirements. Additionally, you should learn about the different tools and accessories that can enhance your crafting experience.

Essential Tools and Materials

To make the most of your Cricut machine, it’s crucial to have the right tools and materials at hand. From various cutting blades to different types of mats and materials, having a well-stocked crafting arsenal will enable you to explore a wide range of creative projects. We will delve into the essential tools and materials you should consider for your Cricut crafting endeavors.

Setting Up Your Cricut Machine

Setting up your Cricut machine properly is the first step towards an exciting crafting journey. This includes unpacking and assembling the machine, connecting it to your computer or mobile device, and installing the necessary software. We will provide you with a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth setup process.

Exploring Cricut Design Space

Cricut Design Space is the software platform that powers your Cricut machine. It’s where you will create and edit your designs, select materials, and send instructions to the machine for cutting. We will explore the features and functionalities of Cricut Design Space, empowering you to navigate the software with ease.

Creating Your First Project

Now that you have a solid foundation in using Cricut, it’s time to dive into your first project. We will guide you through the process of selecting a design, preparing materials, and cutting your project using your Cricut machine. Get ready to witness your creativity come to life!

Understanding Cricut Mat and Materials

Cricut machines rely on mats to hold the materials in place during the cutting process. Different materials require different types of mats, and understanding the appropriate mat and material combinations is crucial for achieving precise and clean cuts. We will discuss the various mats and materials available and offer tips on selecting the right combination.

Tips and Tricks for Successful Cricut Crafting

To take your Cricut crafting to the next level, it’s helpful to have some insider tips and tricks up your sleeve. We will share valuable insights that will enhance your workflow, improve the quality of your projects, and save you time and frustration along the way. From designing tips to cutting techniques, get ready to elevate your crafting game.

Advanced Techniques and Features

Once you have mastered the basics, it’s time to explore the advanced techniques and features offered by Cricut. This includes working with specialized materials, utilizing the machine’s drawing and scoring capabilities, and incorporating other craft mediums into your projects. We will inspire you with creative ideas and provide guidance on expanding your crafting horizons.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Like any technology, Cricut machines may encounter occasional hiccups. We will address common issues you may come across during your crafting journey and provide troubleshooting tips to help you overcome them. From connectivity problems to cutting errors, we’ve got you covered.

Cricut for Business and Personal Use

Cricut is not only a tool for personal crafting projects but also a valuable asset for businesses in the creative industry. We will explore the applications of Cricut in different business settings, including personalized gifts, event decorations, and small-scale production. Whether you’re a hobbyist or an entrepreneur, Cricut can help you unleash your creativity and turn your passion into profit.

Maintenance and Care for Your Cricut Machine

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Cricut machine, proper maintenance and care are essential. We will provide you with guidelines on cleaning, storing, and troubleshooting routine maintenance tasks. By following these tips, you can keep your Cricut machine in top shape for years to come.

Conclusion

Congratulations on embarking on your Cricut crafting journey! In this article, we have covered the fundamentals of getting started with Cricut, from understanding the different machine models to exploring the tools, materials, and software. We hope this guide has equipped you with the knowledge and inspiration to create beautiful and intricate projects using your Cricut machine. For more, make sure you visit Printiverse.

FAQs

1. Can I use my own designs with Cricut? Absolutely! Cricut allows you to upload your own designs and even convert hand-drawn sketches into cutting files.
2. What materials can I cut with Cricut? Cricut can cut a wide range of materials, including paper, vinyl, fabric, leather, and even balsa wood.
3. Is Cricut difficult to learn for beginners? While there is a learning curve, Cricut provides user-friendly software and extensive online resources to support beginners in their crafting journey.
4. Can I use Cricut without an internet connection? Cricut Design Space requires an internet connection for design creation and machine operation. However, once a design is loaded, you can cut without internet connectivity.
5. Can I use Cricut for iron-on and heat transfer projects? Yes, Cricut machines are compatible with iron-on and heat transfer vinyl, making it perfect for customizing clothing, accessories, and home decor.

Color theory is the science and art behind understanding the various properties of colors and their interactions. The use of colors plays an important role in various fields, including arts, crafts, design, marketing, and psychology. Understanding color theory is crucial for artists, designers, and crafts enthusiasts, as it helps them create aesthetically pleasing and visually appealing pieces of art.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding color theory in arts and crafts. We will discuss the principles of color theory, the color wheel, color schemes, and applications of color theory in various arts and crafts projects.

The Principles of Color Theory

The principles of color theory are based on the three elements of color: hue, value, and intensity. Hue refers to the pure color, such as red, blue, or yellow. Value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color, while intensity refers to the brightness or dullness of a color.

Another important principle of color theory is color harmony, which is the visual balance of colors. Color harmony can be achieved through the use of color schemes, which are a combination of colors that are aesthetically pleasing and visually balanced. There are several color schemes, including monochromatic, complementary, analogous, and triadic color schemes.

The Color Wheel

The color wheel is a visual representation of the relationships between colors. It is based on the primary colors of red, blue, and yellow, which cannot be created by mixing other colors. Secondary colors are created by mixing two primary colors, while tertiary colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color. The color wheel can be divided into warm and cool colors. Warm colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, create a sense of energy and warmth, while cool colors, such as blue, green, and purple, create a sense of calmness and serenity.

The color wheel is an important tool for artists, designers, and crafts enthusiasts, as it helps them choose colors that are visually appealing and balanced.

Color Schemes

Color schemes are a combination of colors that are aesthetically pleasing and visually balanced. There are several color schemes that are commonly used in arts and crafts, including:

Monochromatic color scheme: A monochromatic color scheme uses shades, tints, and tones of a single color. This creates a harmonious and sophisticated look.
Complementary color scheme: A complementary color scheme uses colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, such as red and green, blue and orange, or yellow and purple. This creates a bold and vibrant look.
Analogous color scheme: An analogous color scheme uses colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, such as blue, blue-green, and green. This creates a subtle and harmonious look.
Triadic color scheme: A triadic color scheme uses three colors that are evenly spaced on the color wheel, such as red, yellow, and blue. This creates a vibrant and balanced look that is bold yet harmonious.

The choice of color scheme depends on the desired effect and mood that the artist or crafter wishes to convey. For example, a monochromatic color scheme can be used to create a calming and serene atmosphere, while a complementary color scheme can be used to create a bold and vibrant look.

Applications of Color Theory in Arts and Crafts

Color theory has numerous applications in various fields, including arts and crafts. Artists, designers, and crafts enthusiasts use color theory to create aesthetically pleasing and visually balanced pieces of art. Some of the applications of color theory in arts and crafts include:

Painting: In painting, color theory is used to create harmonious color schemes and to mix colors to create new shades, tints, and tones.
Graphic Design: In graphic design, color theory is used to create visually appealing and effective designs for logos, websites, and other visual elements.
Fashion Design: In fashion design, color theory is used to create visually balanced and aesthetically pleasing color combinations for clothing and accessories.
Home Decor: In home decor, color theory is used to create harmonious and visually appealing color schemes for interior design and decoration.
Jewelry Making: In jewelry making, color theory is used to choose the right color combinations for beads, stones, and other materials used in creating jewelry.

Conclusion

Color theory is an essential part of arts and crafts. It helps artists, designers, and crafts enthusiasts create aesthetically pleasing and visually balanced pieces of art. By understanding the principles of color theory, the color wheel, color schemes, and applications of color theory in various fields, one can enhance their creative skills and create beautiful and meaningful pieces of art.

So whether you are a professional artist or crafter or just someone who loves to create, understanding color theory is a valuable tool that can help you take your art to the next level.

As the graphic design industry continues to grow and evolve, one tool has remained a constant presence in every designer’s toolkit: Adobe Illustrator. This powerful vector graphics software has been around since 1987 and has undergone numerous updates and improvements over the years. Today, it is the go-to software for professional designers, illustrators, and artists.

Essential Features of Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator offers a wide range of features that make it an essential tool for every designer. Some of the key features include:

Vector Graphics

One of the most significant advantages of Adobe Illustrator is its ability to work with vector graphics. Unlike raster images, which are made up of pixels, vector graphics are made up of mathematical equations, making them scalable without losing quality. This feature allows designers to create high-quality designs for a variety of purposes, from business cards to billboards.

Precision and Control

Adobe Illustrator is known for its precision and control, allowing designers to create intricate and complex designs with ease. The software offers a variety of tools for creating shapes, lines, and curves, as well as the ability to manipulate and adjust them with precision.

Creative Freedom

Another advantage of Adobe Illustrator is the creative freedom it offers. The software allows designers to create designs from scratch, experiment with different styles and colors, and bring their ideas to life in a way that is not possible with other software.

Tips and Tricks for Designers

While Adobe Illustrator offers a vast array of features, there are some tips and tricks that can help designers unlock its full potential. Here are some of the best tips for working with Adobe Illustrator:

Use Layers

Using layers is an essential part of working with Adobe Illustrator. Layers allow designers to organize their artwork and make it easier to edit and modify. By using layers effectively, designers can create complex designs without becoming overwhelmed.

Master the Pen Tool

The pen tool is one of the most powerful tools in Adobe Illustrator, and mastering it is essential for any designer. The pen tool allows designers to create precise and complex shapes and curves, giving them greater control over their designs.

Experiment with Color

Adobe Illustrator offers a vast array of color options, and designers should experiment with different color combinations to find the best one for their design. Using the color wheel and color palettes can help designers find the perfect color scheme for their project.

The Creative Process in Adobe Illustrator

The creative process in Adobe Illustrator is a journey that starts with an idea and ends with a finished design. Here are the basic steps in the creative process:

Idea Generation

The first step in the creative process is coming up with an idea. This can be done through brainstorming, sketching, or simply letting the imagination run wild.

Sketching

Once an idea has been generated, the next step is to sketch out the design. Sketching allows designers to work out the details of their design and get a sense of how it will look in the final product.

Creating the Design

After sketching, the next step is to create the design in Adobe Illustrator. This involves using the various tools and features to bring the design to life, experimenting with color and composition to achieve the desired effect.

Refining and Editing

Once the design has been created, the next step is to refine and edit it. This may involve making changes to the layout, adjusting the color palette, or tweaking the design to improve its overall impact.

Finalizing and Exporting

The final step in the creative process is to finalize the design and prepare it for export. This may involve saving the design in various file formats, such as JPG or PNG, or preparing it for printing or online publishing.

The Role of Adobe Illustrator in the Design Industry

Adobe Illustrator has become an essential tool for graphic designers, illustrators, and artists in the design industry. Its powerful features and versatility have made it the go-to software for creating high-quality designs for a wide range of purposes.

From creating logos and branding materials to designing websites and mobile apps, Adobe Illustrator has revolutionized the way designers work and has helped to shape the visual language of our modern world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool that has transformed the world of graphic design. Its essential features, creative freedom, and precision control have made it an indispensable tool for designers, illustrators, and artists around the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, Adobe Illustrator offers the tools and resources you need to bring your creative vision to life. So why not give it a try and unlock your full potential as a designer today?

If you’re looking for a fun and easy craft project, sticker crafts may be just what you need! From decorating your laptop or phone case to creating unique wall art, stickers are a versatile material that can be used in a variety of ways. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating your own sticker crafts, from selecting the right materials to putting the finishing touches on your project.

Materials Needed for Sticker Crafts

Before you get started, you’ll need to gather a few materials. Here are the basics:

Stickers

Choose stickers that suit your personal style and the project you have in mind. Stickers come in a variety of sizes and designs, so consider what you want to create before making a purchase.

Surface

Select a surface to decorate with your stickers. This could be a notebook, laptop, phone case, water bottle, or even a piece of cardboard or canvas if you’re making wall art.

Scissors

You may need to cut some of your stickers to fit your project or create a specific design.

Glue

If you’re using stickers on a surface that isn’t adhesive, you may need glue to ensure they stay in place.

Other Decorative Materials

Consider incorporating other decorative materials into your project, such as washi tape, markers, or paint.

Steps for Creating Sticker Crafts

Once you have your materials, it’s time to get started! Follow these steps to create your own unique sticker crafts:

Step 1: Plan Your Design

Before you start sticking your stickers onto your surface, plan out your design. Consider the placement and order of your stickers, as well as any other decorative materials you want to use. Sketch out your design on a piece of paper or use a digital design program to create a mockup.

Step 2: Prepare Your Surface

If you’re using stickers on a surface that isn’t adhesive, such as a canvas or cardboard, prepare the surface by applying a layer of glue or double-sided tape.

Step 3: Start Sticking

Carefully place your stickers onto your surface, following your planned design. Take your time to ensure that each sticker is straight and properly aligned.

Step 4: Add Other Decorative Materials

Once you have your stickers in place, consider adding other decorative materials to enhance your design. Use washi tape to create borders or frames around your stickers, or use paint or markers to add details or accents.

Step 5: Cut and Trim

If necessary, use scissors to cut and trim your stickers to fit your design or surface.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once you’re happy with your design, step back and assess any areas that may need additional touch-ups or adjustments. Make any final changes to ensure your design is perfect.

Tips for Creating Great Sticker Crafts

Here are a few tips to help you create the best possible sticker crafts:

Use High-Quality Stickers

Invest in high-quality stickers with a top company that will last and won’t peel or fade over time.

Experiment with Different Surfaces

Try using stickers on a variety of surfaces to see what works best for your project. You may find that certain surfaces are more receptive to stickers than others.

Consider Color and Contrast

Think about the colors and contrast in your design. A high-contrast design with bold colors may be more eye-catching than a more muted design.

Get Creative with Placement

Experiment with different sticker placements to create unique designs. Consider layering stickers or overlapping them for a more dynamic effect.

Wrapping Up

Creating your own sticker crafts is a fun and easy way to express your creativity and personalize your belongings. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be able to create unique and eye-catching designs that will make your projects stand out. Remember to have fun and experiment with different materials and techniques to find what works best for you. With a little creativity and patience, you’ll be creating amazing sticker crafts in no time!

FAQs

Can I use any type of sticker for my projects?

Yes, you can use any type of sticker as long as it suits your design and project.

Do I need special tools to create sticker crafts?

No, you only need basic tools such as scissors, glue, and a surface to decorate.

Can I create sticker crafts with children?

Yes, sticker crafts are a great activity to do with children, as they are easy and fun.

Can I remove stickers from my surface once they are applied?

It depends on the type of sticker and surface. Some stickers may be easily removable, while others may leave residue or damage the surface.

Can I sell my sticker crafts?

Yes, you can sell your sticker crafts as long as they are your original designs and not infringing on any copyrights or trademarks.

Starting a sticker business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. Stickers are a popular form of self-expression, and they can be used to decorate anything from laptops and phone cases to notebooks and water bottles. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of starting a sticker business that can thrive and help you outrank other websites with similar content.

Conduct market research

Before starting any business, it is crucial to conduct market research. You need to determine if there is a demand for your products and who your target audience is. Research your competition to determine what they are doing well and where there may be gaps in the market that you can fill.

Determine your niche and branding

Once you have identified your target audience and competition, it is essential to determine your niche and branding. Consider what type of stickers you want to sell and what makes them unique. Your branding should appeal to your target audience and be consistent across all of your marketing materials, including your website, social media, and packaging.

Develop your product

Now that you have determined your niche and branding, it’s time to develop your product. Research printing methods and materials to ensure that your stickers are high-quality and durable. Determine your pricing strategy, taking into account your costs, competition, and desired profit margin. For example, you might want to focus on Selling Personalized Phone Case Stickers.

Build an online presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. Build a professional website that showcases your products, branding, and story. Utilize social media platforms to engage with your audience and promote your business. Consider investing in paid advertising to increase your visibility and drive traffic to your website.

Set up a fulfillment process

As you start to receive orders, you will need to have a fulfillment process in place. Determine how you will package and ship your products and establish a system for tracking orders and inventory. Consider outsourcing fulfillment to a third-party logistics provider to streamline your operations.

Monitor and adapt

Finally, it’s essential to monitor your business and adapt as needed. Track your sales and marketing efforts to determine what is working and what needs improvement. Stay up to date on industry trends and adjust your products and strategies accordingly.

In conclusion, starting a sticker business requires careful planning and execution. By conducting thorough market research, developing high-quality products, building a strong online presence, and continually monitoring and adapting, you can build a successful business and outrank other websites with similar content.

One fun and easy DIY craft idea is to make your own picture frames using popsicle sticks. Popsicle sticks are inexpensive, readily available, and can be easily transformed into a variety of different crafts.

To make your own picture frame using popsicle sticks, you will need:

Popsicle sticks
Glue (craft glue or a hot glue gun)
Scissors
Paint or markers (optional)
A picture or photograph to frame

Instructions:

Begin by laying out the popsicle sticks in the desired shape for your frame. You can make a rectangular frame, a square frame, or even a heart-shaped frame.
Once you have the desired shape, use the glue to secure the sticks together. You can use either craft glue or a hot glue gun, depending on your preference.
Let the glue dry completely. This will take a few hours or overnight, depending on the type of glue you used.
Once the glue is dry, you can use scissors to trim the edges of the frame if needed. This will give your frame a more polished look.
Optional: You can paint or decorate the frame using markers or paint, to give it a personal touch.
Once the frame is dry and decorated, insert your picture or photograph into the frame, and it is ready to be displayed.

This is a fun and easy craft that can be done by anyone, regardless of their crafting experience. Popsicle sticks can be easily found in craft stores, and the project can be completed with just a few basic supplies. Not only is this craft inexpensive, but it also provides a great opportunity to get creative and personalize the frame to your liking. This DIY picture frame is a great way to display your favorite memories, and it can make a great gift for friends and family.

Another great aspect of this craft is that it is versatile, you can make different sizes and shapes of frames and also you can use different colors or decorating techniques, making each frame unique. This craft can be a fun activity to do with kids as well, as it allows them to be creative and learn about different shapes and colors.

In conclusion, making your own picture frame using popsicle sticks is a fun, easy, and inexpensive craft idea that anyone can do. It’s a great way to display your favorite memories, and it can make a great gift for friends and family. It’s a versatile craft that allows you to be creative, and you can make different sizes and shapes of frames. This craft can be a fun activity to do with kids as well, as it allows them to be creative and learn about different shapes and colors.

By Cary Smellburne

Yesterday, EFI and FedEx Office announced that FedEx Office is using EFI products for a more cost-effective and streamlined delivery of professional print services. I spoke to Udi Arieli, EFI’s Director, High End Market Business Development, EFI Productivity and Print Software, to get the scoop for this WhatTheyThink exclusive.

As many of our readers know, Udi and EFI have been thought leaders in terms of automated, intelligent workflow. In fact, at drupa 2012, the company unveiled The Automated Workflow Experience, a series of thought leadership animated videos that depicted the vision for near-lights-out print production workflow. The FedEx Office deal is one of the first times this concept has been brought to fruition in its entirety in a live production environment utilizing EFI Productivity Suite and EFI Fiery digital front end (DFE) technologies.

FedEx Office operates about 1,800 centers, supported by a number of Centralized Production Centers (CPCs) with a footprint that extends across the Americas. The configuration is an EFI Productivity Suite implementation being used in CPCs in North America and features EFI’s Pace MIS, PrintFlow Dynamic Scheduling, Fiery Central and Fiery DFEs.

Jobs are first directed to the FedEx Office National Fulfillment Center where the job is processed. FedEx Office utilizes a workflow where, for example, jobs are created automatically by the EFI Pace MIS with little human intervention. Jobs then go to PrintFlow to dynamically schedule the job and all other jobs automatically non-stop. Fiery Central can then use the PrintFlow schedule, and the job data from Pace to transmit job instructions and content files to an appropriate EFI Fiery DFE in the appropriate CPC at the right time. In a workflow of this nature, jobs are preconfigured for the target print engine by Fiery Central and the Fiery DFE, reducing the steps operators normally take to configure a press for each job. The Fiery DFE also sends PrintFlow job status information in real time, allowing PrintFlow to reschedule and reoptimize production, issuing a new schedule every few minutes.

The benefits of this type of workflow capability suit operations like FedEx Office, which has a large number of jobs coming into its centers 24/7.

When a job reaches production in this type of operation, the job ticket accompanying the job automatically configures the digital press, including required inline finishing. At that point, the operator can use a customized dashboard to monitor jobs coming in and to gain instructions about what needs to be done, such as which paper should be loaded, any inline finishing that is required, etc.

“For a complex job that has many workflow steps, the end-to-end process can take a long time to complete with many opportunities for error, but now it can happen in a fraction of the time,” Arieli says, “This is truly a game-changer – for FedEx Office and for the industry.”

Arieli points out that a lot of this integration was developed and completed before engaging with FedEx Office, and some of it is reflected in the company’s new Productivity Suite offering. “ For me, it is a dream come true and the culmination of my many years of work in the arena of workflow automation,” says Arieli. The workflow is also based on TGO – the Theory of Global Optimization that Arieli and his team at EFI developed.

While FedEx Office is clearly a large, distributed organization, Arieli strongly believes that any printing company with two or more print engines can benefit from some of this automation, much of it offered in the EFI Productivity Suite and EFI Fiery products. “It is very difficult for a printing company to make money and be efficient, now and into the future, without a workflow like this,” he says. “Printing companies can’t continue doing everything with outdated software. This implementation now proves that it can be done, and that it can be done on a large scale. I would argue that it can be scaled down for smaller companies as well, helping them position themselves well for future success.”

I’m personally not a big fan of price promotions for handmade products, for various reasons.

Firstly, discounting sends out a certain message about your products: I’ve got left over stock, it’s piled high, it’s all about the new season, this isn’t “the thing” any more.

Secondly, it hacks away at your profit margin, which may be slimmer than you would like to start with.

Thirdly, it sets a dangerous precedent – we have all been conditioned by retailers, and in particular online retailers, to wait for the next price promotion: there will always be another 15% off and free delivery around the corner, so why buy today?

Fourthly, you are hopefully working hard to demonstrate to your customers why a handmade product is worth a premium. We know you can’t compete on price with mass produced products, so you have to have a really strong added value proposition: your products are better, and therefore worth more, because of the detail, the quality, the uniqueness, and the heart and soul that you poured lovingly into their design and manufacture. That is why they are worth a premium, and your real customers will appreciate that.

So, for those reasons, I don’t recommend you build discounting and MASSIVE SUMMER MADNESS sales into your business strategy. (You weren’t going to, were you, I needn’t have worried.)

However, you are competing in the real world, against companies who do discount, in a market when it’s not easy to get people to part with their money, and you have a living to make. So what to do?

If you have stock that is ageing, seasonal, or failing to move for another reason, you may have to consider putting it on sale. Now might be a good time. People do love a bargain, and there is no doubt that discounting does stimulate sales. Stock that has been hanging around for months or even years is not good for your cash flow or your energy, so a cheeky discount may get things moving again.

On the subject of cash flow, this can be another good reason to hold a sale: if you can see funds starting to dry up, and are worrying where you will find the cash for the next month’s bills, emergency measures may be required. You may have to park your pride and profit predictions for a short while and use a sale to avert a cash crisis.

Don’t just hold a sale because everyone else is doing it. If you are happy with the level of business you are generating, then fine. But if you do feel under pressure financially, you can still hold a sale without losing your dignity or damaging your brand. All in the best possible taste.

Avoid falling into furniture warehouse speak: “MUST END SOON” and “PRICES SLASHED” are probably not on-brand, so make sure you communicate your sale to your customers in your usual tone of voice.

Think of clever ways to promote your discounts – perhaps you only offer them to your top customers as a thank you, thereby keeping them exclusive and creating goodwill among your most valuable audience. Rather than applying blanket discounts to everything, create some promotional bundles: three cushions for the price of two, or buy a necklace and get free earrings. These offers add value for your customers without feeling cheap.

Consider partnering with a magazine or blog to create a reader offer. Again, this gives an element of exclusivity, and can also promote your sale to a wider audience.

Finally, give people a clear timeframe for the offer. They need to know it’s not open ended. In other words: “MASSIVE SUMMER MADNESS MUST END SOON!”.

If you are running a sale, please feel free to post a link to your site in the comments box below. We will be covering pricing and selling in more detail on the Create a Craft Business e-Workshop, which starts 8th September.

It’s very likely that the energy you put into your business will ebb and flow over time, especially if it has been set up for the very purpose of providing balance, security and flexibility to your life. Nothing compares to the heady start-up phase, where you fall dizzily in love with your new venture, and pour an unreasonable amount of passion and time into making your dreams a reality.

But what happens later on, when the honeymoon period is over and you find your personal circumstances have changed: perhaps a baby comes along, you suffer a divorce or illness, or find yourself relocating? Luckily, by nature small, creative businesses are relatively easy to scale up or down (I know, I did it when my second baby came along and I was juggling two under 2s whilst trying to cope with health complications that left me feeling drained).

When your situation shifts again, as it will, and you find yourself ready to breathe new life into your work, how do you do this?

Dogs by Maggie Mumford

I spoke with Maggie Mumford, a talented artist who specializes in creating bespoke tiles and ceramics that feature her appealing designs. Maggie is facing this challenge right now, and has kindly shared her thoughts with us.

Maggie, you are refocusing on your business following a break – can you tell me a bit about that?

My business was pretty well established after 7 years, then I took some time out to be with my daughter, which turned out to be longer than I expected I would need. I was happy to take on work that came my way during this time, but without any proactive marketing, this obviously declined, and has left me feeling that I need to build things up all over again.

So what do you feel are the biggest challenges you are facing now?

Getting my name out there again; people forget so quickly! Also, fitting everything in with reduced working hours; I can’t work the hours I did before, so I am going to have to brush up my time management considerably!

What can you do to address these challenges? Do you know how and where to get help?

I have just taken somebody on part time to help me with PR, so she has been contacting the home magazines to get editorial again. I am also starting to do some advertising.

My daughter can spend some time in school clubs and day camps during the holidays, but I am also trying to keep the balance of spending time with her too. A universal problem for working mothers I expect.

I try to have a clear structure to my day – first thing after drop off and dog walk I check my emails and Facebook and then go straight into the studio. I have to be really disciplined and get in there for Woman’s Hour or I lose valuable painting time. If I start looking at “new pins you may be interested in” I’m doomed.

Love & Kisses by Maggie Mumford

Hopefully the advertising should not only attract new clients, but help you leverage editorial with those magazines too. And yes, I don’t think there is a solution to the working mum’s dilemma, so I try not to waste too much time searching for one! We all muddle through in the best way we can!

Have you set some goals for where would you like to be by the end of this year, and next year?

By the end of the year I would like to be somewhere near where I used to be with my workload but that may be a little ambitious. By the end of next year I definitely want that and more. I really miss juggling different projects and coming up with designs for bespoke clients, it feeds my creativity.

What are you most afraid of and is there anything you putting off doing?

I’m afraid that all of the above may not happen – I think I have lost a bit of confidence. I’m not putting off much – it’s all systems go!

Glad to hear you are feeling the fear and doing it anyway! Sounds like you are pretty fired up, which tells me this is the right time for you to be scaling things back up. What excites you most about the future of your business?

I’m excited about my new website – the designer was brilliant and I think he has done a great job. Also, I’m really enjoying the new designs that I have been working on. I have finally embraced Facebook and Pinterest and that has been a revelation, I’m surprised at how much I enjoy them. I’m happy and optimistic about the future and looking forward to “achieving” again and having a healthy bank balance.

Finally, what one small thing could you do today to make a difference to your business?

I could (will!) chase up the emails that I sent out last week and haven’t had replies for. Not much, but 1% everyday…

I think that’s more than 1%! Thank you so much for sharing your honest thoughts which I’m sure many readers will relate to and feel inspired by. I have no doubt that you will see things gather momentum quicker than you are expecting!

Visit Maggie’s Website and see her beautiful handmade tiles here: maggiemumford.com.

This week I have been working with a designer on her business model. You have a business model too – even if you don’t realise it – but it it the best model for you?

There is more than one way to structure how you do business, and reach your customers, and what suits you won’t suit the next person. Your model will depend on how much you need to earn, how much time you can commit to your business, whether you want to employ people and so on. And it will evolve over time.

I thought it might be useful to give you some examples of different business models, and some of the pros and cons of each model. Hopefully you may recognise your own model, and be able to account for its strengths and weaknesses. If you are using a combination of models, are these complimentary, or conflicting?

Let me know what you think!

Model	How it works	Pros & Cons
Wholesale	I sell my necklaces to shops, for a wholesale price. I sell my necklaces to the shops for $10 each, and the shop retails them at $25 each, so I make $10 per necklace.	This model is based on getting high volumes of sales, for a lower price per item. I don’t have big marketing costs trying to attract lots of individual customers, and I don’t have the overheads of my own shop.
My own website	I sell a range of necklaces online through my own website. I sell each necklace for $25, so make more per item.	I have to spend time marketing my website to attract customers, but I get to keep a larger chuck of the profit on each item. I keep the range I produce quite small, so that I can buy the materials in bigger volumes, and get bigger discounts on them.
Bespoke Orders	I create one-off, unique pieces for customers that I meet face-to-face in my studio. I charge $100+ for a necklace.	I get to work closely with my customers which I love. I spend a lot of time with each customer, liaising, sending designs and sample materials. I have to charge much higher prices to cover these costs.
Paying Commission	I sell through Etsy, Folksy, Notonthehighstreet.com or galleries, who take a commission on my work.	The retailer takes between 20-60% of my sale price, but they do the marketing to attract the customers, and I can reach a wider audience this way.
Fairs & Exhibitions	I exhibit at a range of craft fairs and exhibitions that attract my target customers.	These events are a valuable way to attract new customers, giving them an opportunity to see my work. I can use these events to bring my brand to life. The overheads can be high, and I have to give up a weekend, but I benefit from impulse buyers, and I collect names and addresses for my database.
A combination of the above	I sell wholesale, and through my own website. I also do the odd exhibition at key times like Christmas.	I have to be really careful to keep my pricing consistent across all these channels, and make sure I have built enough margin in to make a profit at wholesale and retail prices. I benefit from a wide customer base and increased sales opportunities.