Sneak Attack Report--First Annual Sneakerversary!

The sneak attack on September 24, 2009 marked the first anniversary of the Handmade Movement.  Celebrations for the anniversary lasted all week, and culminated with the Thursday sneak attack. Sponsors VintageEmbellishment and peppercorns2 were extra sneaky and, with the help of TeamSNEAK, launched a surprise attack on Handmade Movement founder phippsart. The day saw a record breaking attack on four shops, with a total of 105 sales! In addition to phippsart, we attacked RRBoudin, FlatFlowerCards, and LisaJeanNaturals. Phippsart sells screen printed t-shirts, original paintings, posters and ACEOs. He got 50 sales from the attack. RRBoudin sells crochet goods, blank greeting cards, and handmade books. She got 11 sales during the attack. FlatFlowerCards sells handmade cards and got 34 sales from the attack. LisaJeanNaturals sells premium powdered facial masques. She got 24 sales from the attack.

Celeste: What was your reaction when you first realized you'd been sneak attacked?

Phippsart: I've been there for every Sneak Attack since we started a year ago and have heard from countless "attackees" about how touched they were to be on the receiving end. I never thought I'd be able to share their experience, so imagine my surprise when so many of the faithful Sneak Attackers turned and gave me a taste of my own medicine! I had no idea it was coming, and I think I sat at the computer with a shocked look on my face for quite a while. I managed to hold back any tears (barely) but definitely felt a rush of emotion thinking about all these great people who so kindly prepared this surprise for me.

[caption id="attachment_173" align="aligncenter" width="240" caption="SNIP t-shirt on Organic Moss Green from phippsart"][/caption]

RRBoudin:At first I thought it was too good to be true when I got the message I had been sneak attacked. Since I am relatively new to Etsy, I had never heard of the sneak attack and didn't know what to think of it. Once I read up on it, I was intrigued, but pessimistic. I hadn't had any sales up to that point and had even considered closing up my shop once or twice in fits of frustration. An hour later I happened to check my shop again, only to find I had 10 sales!!! I did a funky dance in front of my computer and eagerly started packaging my items. The sneak attack really turned my day around and gave me back some of the faith I had lost in my shop.

[caption id="attachment_597" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Black and White Amigurumi Crochet KITTY CAT by RRBoudin"][/caption]

FlatFlowerCards: When the sales started coming in all at once, I have to admit, I thought something was broken and some kind of strange virus got me. But once I realized it was on the up & up it made me feel like there are still kind and fun people out there.

[caption id="attachment_185" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Purple Winecup Flowers with Elephant from FlatFlowerCards"][/caption]

LisaJeanNaturals: I was so excited to see that I had gotten some orders! I checked my blackberry on my way home from work (after 9:00pm!), saw the orders and didn't fiqure out it was a "sneak attack" until the next day. Had no clue what one was, but I can tell you now, it's like a big warm "welcome hug". It felt great! Like I had landed in a group of people who really care about each others success.

[caption id="attachment_178" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Coconut Island Creme from LisaJeanNaturals"][/caption]

Celeste: Is there anything else you'd like our blog readers to know?

Phippsart: There have been nearly 3000 sales made through Sneak Attacks so far. It's amazing to think of all the charitable "Sneakers" that have made these purchases over this past year, the 100s of recipients of the Sneak Attacks, and the many many hours put into the creation of the handmade items that have been sold. Here's to another amazing year!

[caption id="attachment_174" align="aligncenter" width="237" caption="In search of the yellow elephant from phippsart"][/caption]

RRBoudin: First of all, sneak attacks are amazing! Having been on the attackee side of things, I will definitely be participating in sneak attacks in the future so I can help other sellers feel special. I love Etsy for how it has promoted the buying and selling of handmade crafts. In this industrial world, it's amazing how handmade items made with love are starting to make a comeback!

As far as my shop is concerned, it is a reflection of all the things I enjoy doing. I specialize in all things crochet (dishcloths, beauty scrubs, stuffed animals, scarves, hats, etc.), but I also have handmade books/journals/sketchbooks and blank greeting cards available in my shop. I am always working on new and familiar projects to list in my shop, so you'll find an assortment of goodies whenever you stop by. I am big into amigurumi (cute crocheted animals) and pet-centered toys (catnip mice, squeaky dog toys). I accept custom orders and am always happy to do my best to turn your ideas into a crocheted dream! :)

Thanks again to everyone who helped with the sneak attack. I can't tell you how it has helped get my shop up off the ground!

[caption id="attachment_598" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Handmade Tiffany's Blue/Chocolate Polka Dot Journal from RRBoudin"][/caption]

FlatFlowerCards;Sure, sending someone a card in the mail is still a great thing! And not one that has been mass produced in the 10's of 1,000's. Flat Flower Cards are unique, fun, and just have a detail and quality to them that feels good.

[caption id="attachment_186" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Arabian Jasmine with Little Girl from FlatFlowerCards"][/caption]

LisaJeanNaturals: Making and selling my facial masques through etsy, feels like more of a mission to me. To provide truely healthy products, that are easy and fun to use. A little mini break in a package. I try to treat all of my clients at my skin care studio with a very personal touch, and that will be the same with customers on etsy. I'm looking forward to being on the other end of a sneak attack!

[caption id="attachment_179" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Chamomile Relief Facial Masque from LisaJeanNaturals"][/caption]

Next week's giveaway- Peacock Compact Mirror from www.ByMiMi.etsy.com

Our next week's giveaway is a beautiful mirror donated by ByMiMi.etsy.com. To enter, click the "Weekly Giveaway" box to your upper right and follow the instructions.

"Stainless compact mirror decorated with brass filigree and adorned with a vintage lucite peacock cabochon. There are 2 mirrors inside, 1 regular mirror and the other is magnified. The compact measures approximately 3 inches in diameter."

We've upgraded to Wordpress!

I'm pleased to announce that now the Handmade Movement blog is, well, really a blog! We're now a functional blog powered by Wordpress, meaning you can now leave comments below each post. On our end it means that posting is a lot easier and will now happen a lot more often. Expect a lot more posts featuring great shops with Handmade and Vintage items across the net, art and craft tips, information about the Sneak Attacks, new giveaways, etc.

(I'll be inputting all the old posts over the next day or two. )

Happy Sneakerversary!

A reminiscence and exchange between Doodlebeacards, and laruefasions--once a victim herself, and now a dedicated member of TeamSNEAK:

Doodle: Seeing that this is an anniversary celebration, thought I would share about my first "official" sneak attack on a certain victim that is now one of the "sneaky sneakers"

I found the sneak attack threads for the first time 3-11-09 but didn't stay long. Found the next one and joined in a little more. I found myself coming every time, found a great group of folks that were so warm and welcoming that I told myself I would come every chance I got.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="Birthday Card for an Obvious Original from doodlebeacards"][/caption]

On 4-10-09, I made my first sneak attack purchase. It was so exciting. My first experience at "cart wars" but I think we didn't "war" as much back then.

This group has brought me out of my shell  and now I think I've only missed one sneak attack. and I love hanging out in the off days because there is so much support.

Oh, by the way, my first sneak purchase was from:





larue - YAY!!!!!!!!!!!! and now she is a sneaky sneaker!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY SNEAK ATTACKS!!!!!


Larue: That night was a very surreal night. I came home from shopping, and turned on the net, and all these emails kept coming in and all these PayPal notices were coming in also. I thought, wow, Doug must have sold something... not ever thinking about me.

Then I started opening them, one after another, I sold an item! OMG!!! It is like hitting a brick wall, only emotionally!

Was someone pulling a joke, I had been on here quite some time, and nothing and now... I kept counting, how could this be? Finally, I read the First letter from PhippsArt. "You are being sneak attacked, and no, this is not a joke!" I just sat and shook my head.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="283" caption="Handmade Key Chain - 'Rosie Posie'"][/caption]

So, after looking at the HandmadeMovement site, and then following the link, I found the thread where people were actually talking about my items. It wasn't a joke! People were saying such nice things, and the emotions got even more messed up. Humility, gratitude, and not knowing how I picked to receive this blessing!

Wow! I think that is one of the most emotionally messed up moments of my life!

But that wasn't the full blessing that God gave me. He gave me a wonderful bunch of people that are caring, loving, honest, and sincerely interested in helping each other. I have a second family on here.

And on top of all that, I get to participate in Sneak Attacking someone else two to three times a week! How great is that. Someone else gets to feel the way I did. Who can ask for more?

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Don't forget to come celebrate the Sneakerversary with us! There will be giveaway drawings at 12:00, 2:00, 4:00, and 6:00 PM EDT. Go to The Handmade Movement to enter. The party culminates at 7:00 with a Sneak Attack!

Winners of today's giveaways (so far! Grand Prize drawing at 6:00pm EDT):

GRAND PRIZE drawing:

And the winner is...

Betsy of comfyhome.etsy.com

Congratulations!!!!

(To see what she won, click on the "Weekly Giveaway" box to the upper left and scroll down to the "Grand Prize".)Drawing #3: LED Lamp Base by fromMarz and Ornate Original Drawing by verveinteriors

Congratulations to winner number three, Deanna Leiber of BadonHill.etsy.com

Drawing #2: Chocolate Covered Caramel Jewelry Pouch by JewelrybyAllisonB

Congratulations to winner number two, Jennifer of iwunder.etsy.com!

Drawing #1: Neclace and Bracelet from BusyBeading & RunsWithScissors4

Congratulations to the first of today's four winners: Glenda of wintergarden.etsy.com!

Happy Sneaking to you!

The wonderfully talented Beqi of LaBeq Gifts serenades us for the first Sneakerversary!

The Sneakers are throwing a Party--And You are Invited!

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="173" caption="Buy Handmade shirt from PhippsArt, founder of the Handmade Movement"][/caption]

Sometimes one person has an idea that, once set into motion, grows beyond anything they ever imagined. In this case the person was Michael Phipps of Phippsart, and the idea was the sneak attack.  Sneak Attacks have been described as "the dynamic of perpetual motion" by Coco of Handmade News. Michael started the sneak attacks in order to spread the warm fuzzy feeling he got when he made his first sale on Etsy and over the past year warm fuzzies have  spread to 243 shops with a total of 2806 sales! On Thursday, September 24 2009 we are throwing a huge birthday bash for the sneak attacks.

TeamSNEAK got its start a little later, after a group of people had been participating in sneak attacks for some time. Theresa of MichiganHemp started the team because she felt it was  "a better way to welcome someone to the wonderful world of Etsy!” While the team itself and most of its members weren't around for that first sneak attack, we are very excited to be here to celebrate the first Sneakerversary.

[caption id="" align="alignright" width="202" caption="Pair of Chickadees - Print from kvwillkinson, the first Sneak Attack victim"][/caption]

Of course it wouldn't be a celebration without a party, and it wouldn't be a party without friends and strangers coming to share the cake, so on behalf of TeamSNEAK, I'd like to extend an invitation to the entire world of internet users to come celebrate with us. Like any good party, there will be lots of great conversation all week long (In the words of Sneaker shadesofvictoria "This week will be a riot!").

The fun continues through Thursday evening, with a sneak attack announced at 7:00PM. The party culminates in a massive giveaway, where you can win a giant bucket of awesomeness worth over $300! In addition to the grand prize, there will also be 3 smaller individual giveaways. Winners will be announced at 12:00, 2:00, 4:00, and 6:00. For details on how to enter, visit The Handmade Movement website, and click on "giveaway"

So come on, and bring your party hat!

September 11 Sneak Attack Report--ruxuxu, deliarayne, and designsbyjessi

Stockannette sponsored the September 11, 2009 sneak attack on ruxuxu, deliarayne, and designsbyjessi. Ruxuxu sells photography and digital patterns. She got 13 sales from the attack. Deliarayne sells crocheted hair accessories and got 4 sales from the attack. Designsbyjessi sells custom photo cards for any occasion and got 2 sales from the attack. Ruxuxu and desigsbyjessi agreed to be interviewed for this blog.

Celeste: What was your reaction when you first realized you'd been sneak attacked?

ruxuxu: I was so happy and surprised. Not just that, my heart was truely moved and thought about something like giveing love and help how changes others. And I felt I start to love even my cat more. I was so shocked and excited too. I did not know what happened. I could not help myself to stop trumble. I think my first reaction was get things ready to send. Of course I went to sneak attacker community and website try understand what happened on me. I saw my shop name was there first page. And I joined a short time conversation for thinks everyone and let them know about my feeling. I was so busy to get to ready send things, so I did not have enough time to read all thing about sneak attack.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="258" caption="a sunflower change - ePATTERN by ruxuxu"][/caption]

deliarayne: I read the sneak attack convo before I realized I was sneak attacked, but I still very excited. I had actually just found out about the sneak attack team about a week prior to mine. I had secretly wished that it would happen to me. So it was sort of a dream come true. :)

[caption id="attachment_601" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="hair flower in crimson from deliarayne"][/caption]

designsbyjessi: The first thing I said to myself was, "What's a sneak attack?" I looked at my email and saw I had a sale - immediately called my Mom and said (almost yelling) "Mom, I got a sale!" hahaha. After reading a little more about sneak attackers I got really excited and started working with my first customer!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="302" caption="Digital Custom Wedding Photo Card Design - You Print by designsbyjessi"][/caption]

Celeste: Anything else you would like our blog readers to know?

ruxuxu: I went to everyone's shop site who put my shop in their  favorites and shopped my things or hearted my items. I put everyone in my favorite list too. I tried to visit everyone's shop so carefully, but I did not have enough time to do in a short time. I think I will visit everyone's shop who helped me anytime. I heart some items too. They are all wonderful and creative. These days because my internet works slow, so I am just off line and try to make really good things. I think this is the best way. Thanks everyone who helped me.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="258" caption="Orange Shadow by ruxuxu"][/caption]

deliarayne:I have enjoyed being a work at home mom for the past 4 years. I love creating clothing, accessories, and so much more for my friends and family. Etsy has been a great way for me to network and get my name out.

[caption id="attachment_602" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="double strand headband from deliarayne"][/caption]

designsbyjessi: I know 2 sales doesn't seem like a lot, but my shop is set up a little different. As a result from the sneak attack, I had an increase of 10 etsy users add my shop to their favorites and several told me they were interested in Christmas cards so that is what I'm working on right now! I also am putting some "mini cards" on there for cute little Halloween or Thanksgiving photo cards. Thanks for getting the word out about my shop sneak attackers! Now, I check the blog all the time and want to join in attacking other victims :)

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="Custom Baby Announcement from designsbyjessi"][/caption]

$350+ in drawings on our Anniversary Celebration (Sep. 24th)!!!!

We're celebrating one year of Sneak Attacks next Thursday with a massive party, including FOUR giveaways, the grand prize being a huge collection of items worth over $300! To enter the contest, click on the "Weekly Giveaway" box to the upper right on this page. Anyone may enter. Best of luck!

Congratulations to VintageEmbellishment!

Congratulations to VintageEmbellishment, who left the twelve comment on the TeamSNEAK giveaway! VintageEmbellishment gets a pack of 8 blank note cards with her choice of images from DoodleBeaCards.

September 7 Sneak Attack Report--FAPhotography, SaraAnn21, and thelittleshabbybox

Winemakerssister sponsored the September 7, 2009 sneak attack on FAPhotography, SaraAnn21 and thelittleshabbybox. FAPhotography specializes in nature photography on prints, postcards, and mousepads. She got 7 sales from the attack. SaraAnn21 sells handmade jewelry and got 8 sales from the attack. Thelittleshabbybox sells embellishments, appliques, keychains and more. She got 7 sales from the attack. SaraAnn21 agreed to be interviewed for this blog.

Celeste: What was your reaction when you first realized you'd been sneak attacked?

SaraAnn21: Well, it was Labor Day, and it had been a long day with friends at an outdoor concert by the sea! I arrived home at about 8pm and checked my email. When I saw all the emails from Etsy buyers and Paypal confirmations, I was shocked! There were 16 emails total. I literally sat and stared at my computer for minutes! (And a minute is a long time to do nothing!) I've never had a sale before so a million thoughts were running through my head. "I need to package all these items, I need to make a list of everyone, I need to make more for my inventory!" I didn't want to mix them up, so I started organizing everything! I was so excited!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="266" caption="Mystic Wave set from SaraAnn21"][/caption]

Celeste: Anything else you would like our blog readers to know?

SaraAnn21: Sneak attacks are bundles of joy! And the attackers have such a big heart to participate! I would like to attack people as well to spread the same joy I felt. I believe the first sale is the hardest and it gives so much inspiration! I am a college student so I started my shop to help pay for school. I learned that it takes some effort to run a successful shop, and between my time on Etsy and 6 classes worth of homework, I truly appreciate the boost!

Feel free to stop by and see my collection! Oh- and I love to do custom orders because it helps me be open to different and unique styles!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="Wine Glass Identifyers from SaraAnn21"][/caption]

Sneak Attack Report--pozartshop, venedaum123, and sweetgalaxy

Stilettogirl and BathtubBling co-sponsored the September 14, 2009 sneak attack on pozartshop, venedaum123, and sweetgalaxy. Pozartshop sells tile mini magnets and coloring pages. She got 14 sales from the attack. Venedaum123 sells button rings and got 6 sales from the attack. Sweetgalaxy makes polymer clay jewelry and got 8 sales from the attack.

Celeste: What was  your reaction when you first realized you'd been sneak attacked?

pozartshop: I didn’t expect it. When I opened the email late that night before going to bed, it took a moment for me to register the amount of orders that were placed. Once I realized what was happening I was shocked and thrilled. I immediately called my sister and started to pack everything that same night. We were too excited to wait until the next morning. We were also excited to ship the TIMI (Tile Mini Magnets) all the way to Australia! Yay!

[caption id="attachment_182" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Shine Tile Mini Magnet from pozartshop"][/caption]

venedaum123:I did not really understand at first what it was or what it all meant but I was very pleased with the result of the sneak-attack since there had been very little activity on my site prior to it.

[caption id="attachment_611" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Hair Comb button ring from venedaum123"][/caption]

sweetgalaxy: Just when you think life can't get any crazier, you get Sneak attacked. Imagine one fine day your boss tells you that you don't have to come to work for the following 4 weeks - PAID VACATIONS. Then you come home and see your husband cooking for you and your dog washing the dishes. Well, that wasn't exaaaactly what happened to me, but I was having a crazy time preparing for 3 exams, getting offered a research work, and overwhelmed by the usual abnormalities of life. When I had a glance at my Etsy page, I wondered why the count for my earring section had dropped remarkably and when I accessed my account I found a message telling me that I'd been Sneak attacked. Sneak aWHAT? It was just absolutely amazing and breathtaking. I felt so honored and happy that I was going completely insane. I started everything at the same time. Sneak Attack Thread, Hotmail, Etsy, Paypal... Let me just tell you one thing. All the Sneak Attack Members make Etsy a better place. I am very grateful for being chosen as one of your "victims" and will forever remember the day I got attacked! :)

[caption id="attachment_183" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Black and Pink Thorny Heart Pendant from sweetgalaxy"][/caption]

Celeste: Is there anything else you would like our blog readers to know?

pozartshop: This was so much fun and it definitely gave us the boost to do more. The reaction and feeling of being attacked is priceless and we would love to sneak attack other shops in the future. We Loved and enjoyed all the positive feedback. I would like your readers to know we are working to launch our new and exciting designs. We recently launched our second series and are working on our third. Please extend a warm thank you for all of their support. What a Wonderful and Fantastic concept!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="299" caption="Cupcake 8 Tile Mini Magnet from Pozartship"][/caption]

venedaum123:
2. My name is Claude Venezia. I was born in Montreal, Canada and I'm french speaking. My shop Bouton on Etsy is a very small portion of the work in progress involving my daughter and I. My daughter Yanique is the founder of Confection Jewels, a handmade, one of a kind, limited edition line of fashion rings. Confection Jewels is currently in the process of launching and will be officially launched before the end of the year. We hope to have our rings sold in boutiques and specialty department stores across the country and hopefully the world!. For a preview of what's to come you can visit: http://www.confectionjewels.com and http://confectionjewels.bigcartel.com/.

Bouton, my shop, was created to utilize all of the smaller vintage pieces we've acquired over the past few years. Bouton, on Etsy, will eventually offer a much wider variety of rings, brooches, pins and pendants.

Working with my daughter on this project has been the highlight of my life. Even if we don't live in the same state, we still get together at least once a month to work on our project. My daughter is an accomplished graphic designer who fell into the fashion industry upon moving in Los Angeles. As far as myself, I'm an interior designer who thrives on esthetics and enjoys creating beautiful environments and beautiful things.

I love Etsy, I love artisans and I'm so grateful to the sneak attack team for their interest in our product and giving young companies and artisans the hope and recognition needed for promoting their craft.

[caption id="attachment_612" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Purple wave button ring from venedaum123"][/caption]

sweetgalaxy: I joined Etsy almost 3 months ago and I am very happy to be part of such an amazing commuity now. I have met many wonderful sellers and buyers and hope that every single day some more people join it and see how Etsy sellers can be a great alternative to buying from big companies.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="290" caption="Devil Cupcake Pendant from sweet galaxy"][/caption]

Giveaway! 8 blank notecards from Doodlebeacards!

Julie and Beatrice have been best friends since they were in school together, and now they have achieved something most of us only dream off--going into business together. That business is doodlebeacards and it combines Beatrice's creativity and talent for drawing with Julie's business acumen. Beatrice's cute, cheerful drawings adorn greeting cards for all occasions which Julie markets on etsy and in other venues. The winner of this week's giveaway will get a pack of 8 blank note cards with their choice of drawings.

How did you discover Etsy and first get started selling?

I actually heard about Etsy back at the end of 2007. I invested in a website package that included one-on-one coaching sessions and my coach told me about it. I actually had 2 coaches and both of them really pushed me toward Etsy, but I ignored them - trying to devout my time to building a website. I had no idea what my site would do or sell at that time. The story about my partner is further down in this. Bottom line to this question is my partner has a sister that joined Etsy, and she started pushing even more, so I gave in and got started building our shop.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="You Moo-ved me Thank you Card from doodlebeacards"][/caption]

Do you have a "day job"?

Day job? The bit about the website in your first question was the result of loosing my day job and doing the "job search" thing. Despite the interviews and resumes, God had another plan for me. My Mom's health was declining, so finding something to do from home was the best option IF it were possible. Now, between my Mom, our card shop, my other Etsy shop, and our website - I guess this IS my day job. (and my night job) In case you're wondering, I was able to find a way to support myself in order to do this. God did provide.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="So Many Frogs by doodlebeacards"][/caption]

What is your first memory of Sneak Attacks?

I can't remember HOW I came across the forum for sneak attacks, but in looking back, the first time I ever posted in an Etsy thread, it was a Sneak Attack thread back in March. I had only popped in, and it was at the end of the day. It was so intriguing that I had to return for the next one. I think I have only missed one since then. My first purchase was in April - talk about exciting!!! And now, I'm totally addicted. I have even sponsored a couple of sneak attacks and would encourage everyone to do it.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="This little Piggy keeps great notes from doodlebeacards"][/caption]

Doodlebeacards is co-run by two friends. Tell me a bit about what that is like.

This ties back in to the first question Celeste. In my search for a "niche" to this website I had just invested in back in 2007, I had no idea what I was going to do. My best friend was an artist. She had been drawing for many many years and was trying to get someone to market her cards. In my mind, I had thought "why not?". I need a niche (according to my coaches). I can market her cards. We sat down and discussed the possibilities and agreed "nothing ventured, nothing gained" so we went for it. She is the artist, I am the business woman. You can read more about that in our profile.

I believe she is a gifted artist and I am happy to have joined with her to promote her talent. This past April, we celebrated our first year of being in business together. And one of the fun parts of our business now is the opportunity we have to offer "personalization". We are also moving beyond greeting cards - Etsy has opened a new world of creativity for us. Look for fun NEW things coming to our shop real soon.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption=""Let's Fight Heart Disease Together" card from doodlebecards"][/caption]

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To enter for your chance to win 8 blank note cards with your choice of drawings, simply go to doodlebeacards and pick a favorite. Come back here and tell us what your favorite is! If you want a second entry, tweet this give-away @teamsneak and leave a comment letting us know you tweeted. Don't forget to leave us a way to get in touch with you if you win (email address, etsy shop, etc.). A winner will be chosen randomly on Monday September 21.

September 3 Sneak Attack Report--chocolatecreators, TheKawaiiSupplyShop, and BELLYBABYSTUDIO

Stockenette and TinkersShop co-sponsored the September 3, 2009 Sneak Attack on chocolatecreators, TheKawaiiSupplyShop and BELLABABYSTUDIO. Chocolatecreators makes  custom designed home made chocolates. They got 5 sales from the attack. TheKawaiiSupplyShop sells cute craft supplies from Japan. She got 13 sales from the attack. BELLABABYSTUDIO sells flower hair clips, paintings, and more. She got 17 sales from the attack. They all agreed to be interviewed for this blog.

Celeste: What was your reaction when you first realized you had been sneak attacked?

chocolatecreators:I did not know anything about Sneak Attacks until that night...I was checking my emails late and saw that I had received four sales and I was totally amazed and was thinking how crazy that was to receive a group of orders in one night...That had never happened before..One of the orders mentioned they had purchased during a sneal attack and so I went to research just what that was about...i think it is such a fun thing to do to help get sales for the selected artists that night...I felt elated and so thrilled that my shop had been chosen...I almost felt like I was being inducted into a sorority at college...I love the idea and the whole feeling that it creates for everyone involved with etsy...

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="245" caption="I LOVE U Heart from chocolatecreators"][/caption]

KawaiiSupplyShop:I did not know what was going on at first - it took a while to realize what was happening - it was the best thing that has happened to me in a long time. I loved it - it gave me such hope.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="285" caption="Beautiful Japanese Fabric - 3 Geisha Portraits from KawaiiSupplyShop"][/caption]

BELLABABYSTUDIO: I was a little freaked out! i had no idea what was going on! and since this was my first huge multiple sale i panicked a little but it was a "happy panic"! Then i realized how much money i had just made overnight and was full of glee:) Thanks everyone!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="288" caption="Jeweled Ribbon flower hair clip from BELLABABYSTUDIO"][/caption]

Celeste: Is there anything else you would like our blog readers to konw?

chocolatecreators: I am still fairly new to etsy and still trying to figure out all og the many ways to market and promote our businesses. I think etsy is amazing and wish I had all day to spend understanding all the ins and outs...I am happy to be a small part of such a huge enterprise.

I have always been a self employed creative spirit and want to tell others to follow their dreams and let their creative juices take them away. There is no greater feeling than knowing you are putting a smile on someones face each time something you have made is given to someone else. I am all for the small business versus the large chain factories. Start out small and see where it goes. Dont let anyone stop you or dissuade you from following your inner instinct!! Etsy can help take you to that very place!!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="259" caption="Fun party favors...champagne bottles from chocolatecreators"][/caption]

KawaiiSupplyShop: My shop came about because of my love for Japan and my visits there. I brought back a lot of things that last time I was there. And also I have friends there that send me thing to sell. They also make things and I will be selling them also. I love doing craft and also plan on making some items from the things they send me.
I love dealing with people who love making craft items - they are wonderful people and very kind spirited.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="275" caption="Beautiful Japanese Washi Paper-Momiji-Autumn Leaves two pieces from KawaiiSupplyShop"][/caption]

BELLABABYSTUDIO: i would just like people to know that everytning I make is full of love and i thoroughly enjoy creating every piece. I also dont just make one thing, I have a TON of ideas running through my head at any given moment! So, there will always be something different in my shop. I also want everyone to know how totally FUN these sneak attacks are and a great ego/sales boost! Way to go team "sneak attack"! Keep it up!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="255" caption="yellow CUTE AS A BUTTON acrylic painted wood frame from BELLABABYSTUDIO"][/caption]

August 31 Sneak Attack Report--LilyPondCrafts and ScrapsofHope

Doodlebeacards sponosored the August 31, 2009 sneak attack on LilyPondCrafts and ScrapsofHope. LilyPondCrafts sells upcycled paintings, papercrafts, and prints. She got 17 sales from the attack. ScrapsofHope sells handmade cards, scrapbook pages, and frames. A portion of the money from her shop goes to helping bring paper crafting to people who other wise would not be able to afford to do it. She got 21 sales from the attack. They both agreed to be interviewed for this blog.

Celeste: What was your reaction when you first realized you'd been sneak attacked?

LilyPondCrafts: I made the discovery when I was checking my email, I had all these etsy emails saying I had sold an item....I got very, very excited and I was grinning from ear to ear and I think I even jumped up and down a bit, lol, my daughters were like "mom what is wrong with you?". I started checking some of the emails and thought, "I wonder if I got sneak attacked", wish, wish :). So I went over to etsy to check it out and saw a message on an invoice that said "Sneak Attack"! If I had to say it with one word it would be "elated". I felt honored and so grateful to be supported by all the very talented etsy artists.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Till the Cows Come Home card from LilyPondCrafts"][/caption]

ScrapsofHope: When I discovered that I had been sneak attacked, I was dumbfounded to say the least! I just couldn't believe that I'd been chosen! The sales were coming in one after another and I was elated each time another showed up. In total, I made 24 sales due to the sneak attack. I don't have too much stock left in the store after the attack, but I'll be happily creating very soon! I can't thank you guys enough for the opportunity to get the word out about my shop and about my cause.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="280" caption="Lil Lady Frame from ScrapsofHope"][/caption]

Celeste: Is there anything else you would like our blog readers to know?

Art and crafts have always been my passion, when I share it with others and they love it, it's the greatest feeling in the world. I find color extremely inspirational and for many years painting has been the medium I've used to explore all colors of the rainbow. I am currently working on some small pieces I want to put in my shop for the holiday season. Color is also what got me hooked on paper crafting, all the colorful papers and patterns are so much fun to put together that I have fallen in love with card making and other paper crafts.

When I decided to open an on-line shop a crafty friend of mine told me I should get an etsy shop, I'm so glad she did. After doing some research about etsy and buying and selling handmade, I felt like it was a perfect fit, I love the etsy community, and idea of artists supporting other artists. I read about the Sneak attacks and the Handmade Movement somewhere at etsy, can't recall right now where, but I went to the website, and bookmarked it, and thought this is so cool, such a wonderful way to help other new shop owners, and secretly thinking "I wish they would sneak attack me", but never did I imagine it would really happen. So I would like to thank all my fellow artists/crafters, I'll be watching and participating in future attacks, I want to pass the magic on!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="280" caption="Journal and Matching Notecard Set from LilyPondCrafts"][/caption]

ScrapsofHope: Besides saying thank you to all who bought from my shop during the sneak attack, I would like to encourage everyone to continue checking back for new items. I am still working my hardest each day to get Scraps of Hope funded and off the ground. As a high school junior, It would be difficult to find the time and money to do so without the support of people like you. Thanks again to everyone who has participated.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="293" caption="Mini-Valentines - Set of 10 from ScrapsofHope"][/caption]

Congratulations to KC!

Congratulations to KC! KC left comment number 35 on our giveaway from Caradidi: Handmade Journals and Books. According to random.org's random number generator, that makes KC the winner!

August 27 Sneak Attack Report--ardiegaye and janiece59

ElephunksTrunk sponsored the August 27 Sneak attack on ardiegaye and janiece59. Ardiegaye sells a little bit of everything, including jewelry, cards, soap, and blankets. She got 24 sales from the attack Janiece59 sells beautiful artwork and got 15 sales from the attack. They agreed to be interviewed for this blog.

Celeste: What was your reaction when you first realized you had been sneak attacked?

ardiegaye:This was a wonderful experience. That week was especially busy because my out of town guests were leaving the next morning and I had to fit gym and special dinner parties all in. Friday evening after coming home from the airport, I got on my computer and learned the great news. I was shocked and so happy, I decided to make personal gift wrap for everyone who purchased. It was my way of saying thank you and giving back.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="320" caption="LAVENDER TO GO by ardiegaye"][/caption]

Janiece: Wow, what an awesome surprise. I was talking on the phone to my daughter and opened my email to 42 emails and saw the first Etsy transaction. I was so excited and still wondering why so many emails so I started scrolling to find one transaction after another. I tell you I started shaking with excitement and a little confusion. It took me a while to figure out what was going on and when I did the biggest smile came over my face and stayed. What a awesome, friendly, giving, game to play. What a great sense of community you all have to use your time and money to give someone a hand up. I'm am impressed beyond words. It wasn't the sales that left me speechless it was the giving and I can't thank you enough. I want to join in your merry prankster world as often as I am able.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="306" caption="Dance as if no one where watching from Janiece59"][/caption]

Celeste: Anything else you'd like our blog readers to know?

ardiegaye: When I was four, I recieved a child's needlepoint kit for Christmas, I have been crafting ever since. I have always entertained myself with craft. My husband gets tiffed because when I leave the house my purse, book, and craft bag usually follow. I don’t like to waste a minute of crafting time!
I worked for years outside of the home and did not have alot of time for crafts. Since retirement, crafts became my life. There are not enough hours in the day. I made my first bracelet when my mom passed away. I made a breast cancer bracelet to wear in her honor. Friends and co-workers asked for them. The rest is history one bead at a time.
A life-long dream was to own a gift coffee/shop. I never dreamed everything in my shop would be made by me.
I am honored to be attacked and given notice by the team!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="320" caption="GOLD FLOWER by ardiegaye"][/caption]

Janiece: About me.... I have been making things with my hands for a very, long time. When I was 5 my grandmother handed me a needle with some bright colored yarn in it and said make me something pretty. She taught me simple embrodry stitches that I would use to make flowers and such on the edges of pillow covers that we would then donate to charity auctions. My mother then taught me to crochet edges on these pillow cases and I loved it. My grandmother would take me across the creek to where a public dump had been long ago. We dug trough the piles of old bottles, chunks of metal and such in search for treasure. Basically any thing that looked interesting. With that she taught me to see things as they could be and not just what they were on the surface. I have used the skills of my ancestors to jump start me in to the world of art having won many awards and scholarships along the way. I have had the privilage to do my art for movie studios, theme parks and many large corperations. I have been blessed to be able to make my living with my art for 30 years now, throw in a few real jobs and a lot of bartending and waitressing. LOL My shop, my work, it's all about my family, my friends, the people who always show up when you need them, (and attack you, lol) It's about trying to see things as they could be beyond what they are. I hope you all enjoy your purchases. Know that they have a lot of my heart in them. I am honored that so many bits of me are about to travel in so many new directions.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="319" caption="Abundance from Janiece59"][/caption]