ETSY

I joined ETSY in the beginning of May, but didn't start to post any items until July. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Etsy.com----it is a website for artisans and retailers who sell handcrafted items and art, vintage clothing and accessories and craft supplies. It has been around for a few years and has become quite a phenomenon. I liked the idea of it, and I like the fact that it is so community oriented. There are forums and conversations that members can participate in, and ongoing workshops and a blog with tips on selling and creating your shop. Sellers get their own online shops----Etsy provides templates & instruction on how to create your look. Paypal is available as are the options of accepting checks or money orders. There is no fee to have a shop--there are minimal fees to list each item (.20 for 4 months) and a small percentage taken on each sale. It is perfect for me as an addition to my website and blog--giving me a venue where it is simple for my supporters to drop by, check out what is available & order cards, magnets & prints---even some originals--and just pay securely online with a credit card.

Setting it up has also been a challenge and a learning experience for me in computer-land. I am getting more practice with Photoshop (which I desperately needed) and I am feeling pretty proud of my improvements in that area. I am not totally "set up" yet, but I am on my way.

I hope you all will stop by and visit my shop and check out the rest of Etsy.com as well. You will be amazed at the range of things that people are doing!

Image: "Pelican's Dream" gouache and watercolor with gold leaf on paper 16" x 20" This is a new painting and is currently being shown at The Pelican Studio Gallery on Hwy 1 (main street) in Point Reyes Station.