This Friday May 4 ~ A One Day Only Giveaway ~ Just for my followers
4.30.2012
4.27.2012
DIY Friday - Chalkboard Paint
Chalkboard paint is an amazing product. You can paint it on pretty much anything and turn it into a surface you can write on over and over again. Here are some ideas for using chalk board paint for everyday use and to decorate your home. Click here for tips on applying chalkboard paint or how to make your own.
What have you painted with chalk board paint?
What have you painted with chalk board paint?
4.26.2012
Fill Your Jar
When you get stuck trying to come up with an idea, or need a little inspiration, don't you wish you had ideas written down and ready to go?
You can!
Use those times when you are full of ideas and inspiration, to sit down and write down all your ideas. Write down everything, ideas you want to try, inspiring quotes, project you want to start, color combination, creative ideas, other mediums you want to work with, and whatever inspiration comes your way.
You should write down your inspired ideas every time you get them and start keeping them in you Jar of inspiration.
Find a pretty jar, box, or container, or decorate one, and start filling it with your ideas. Make sure your jar is big enough for all you ideas.
Here are some decorating ideas to get you started.
Every time you are stuck or need some inspiration pull out a slip of paper from you Jar of Inspiration, and let the idea inspire you. Sometimes all you need is a word, a color, or a completely new idea to rejuvenate your creative process.
What do you do when you need a boost of inspiration?
You can!
Use those times when you are full of ideas and inspiration, to sit down and write down all your ideas. Write down everything, ideas you want to try, inspiring quotes, project you want to start, color combination, creative ideas, other mediums you want to work with, and whatever inspiration comes your way.
You should write down your inspired ideas every time you get them and start keeping them in you Jar of inspiration.
Find a pretty jar, box, or container, or decorate one, and start filling it with your ideas. Make sure your jar is big enough for all you ideas.
Here are some decorating ideas to get you started.
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| Decoupage |
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| Paint |
 |
| fabric covered |
What do you do when you need a boost of inspiration?
4.25.2012
Be Inspired - Beautiful Mountains
Words to Inspire
“Our way is not soft grass, it's a mountain path with lots of rocks. But it goes upwards, forward, toward the sun.”
Ruth Westheimer
Idea to Inspire
Let the photos from your last vacation inspire you today.
Photos to Inspire
My husband and I are headed to Colorado for a weekend getaway. It's his 50 th birthday (don't tell him I told you) and we decided to do something special. Today I am sharing some amazing photos of the Colorado landscape from Pinterest.
“Our way is not soft grass, it's a mountain path with lots of rocks. But it goes upwards, forward, toward the sun.”
Ruth Westheimer
Idea to Inspire
Let the photos from your last vacation inspire you today.
Photos to Inspire
My husband and I are headed to Colorado for a weekend getaway. It's his 50 th birthday (don't tell him I told you) and we decided to do something special. Today I am sharing some amazing photos of the Colorado landscape from Pinterest.
4.24.2012
Artist to Know - Jonathan Callan
I love to find artists that are working with materials that most people would throw away. Today's artist takes those old phone books out of the recycle bin and turns them into amazing sculptures.
Jonathan Callan
What would like to do with an old phone book?
Jonathan Callan
What would like to do with an old phone book?
4.23.2012
4.22.2012
Earth Day
Earth Day 2012
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
Eleanor Roosevelt
4.20.2012
Your Creative Space - Choosing the Right Color
The color of your studio/office can be inspiring and even help you concentrate. Choosing the right color for your space is important, the color can affect your mood and productivity. You want your studio/office to be an inviting space where you enjoy spending time.
Here are some color scheme ideas for your creative space:
White - This is a classic color for a studio because it reflects light and can be a neutral background for your art work. White can give the feel of openness and airiness, but can also feel a cold. Warm up white with wood furniture and trim.
Blue - is known as the relaxing color, and is a good choice for an office/studio. Be careful of the shade of blue you choose, you don't want it to have a lot of gray in it because that can bring down your mood.
Purple - Lighter shades of purple are also relaxing. While darker purples are dramatic. Choose the shade that will best suit your mood.
Green - A neutral and soothing color that goes with just about anything. Depending on the shade it can be too relaxing, add a little yellow to it to give it a little more energy.
Yellow - This is the perfect color to brighten up a space. It's considered the happy color. It can give you an emotional boost everyday you enter your work space. When painting your walls stick with paler shades, brighter shades can cause irritation and frustration.
Red - This energizing and stimulating color can be a boost to your creativity, but too much red can be overwhelming and too stimulating. Instead of doing a whole room in red, just do one wall or use it for your accessories.
If painting is not an option in your space, try adding a bright desk chain, a rug, colorful accents on book shelves, with desk accessories and storage boxes, and over sized art work. There is always a way to add the pop of color you need.
Before you add any color to your space, decide how your space will be used. If it's mostly for doing office work you may want brighter shades to to keep you motivated. If it's your studio space, maybe a neutral background so your art colors the space. Choose your colors based on what helps you function at your best.
Choosing a color is a personal choice, but if you plan well and choose the color that is going to inspire you to do your best work, you will be happy with your space for years.
What color is your studio/office space?
Here are some color scheme ideas for your creative space:
White - This is a classic color for a studio because it reflects light and can be a neutral background for your art work. White can give the feel of openness and airiness, but can also feel a cold. Warm up white with wood furniture and trim.
Blue - is known as the relaxing color, and is a good choice for an office/studio. Be careful of the shade of blue you choose, you don't want it to have a lot of gray in it because that can bring down your mood.
Purple - Lighter shades of purple are also relaxing. While darker purples are dramatic. Choose the shade that will best suit your mood.
Green - A neutral and soothing color that goes with just about anything. Depending on the shade it can be too relaxing, add a little yellow to it to give it a little more energy.
Yellow - This is the perfect color to brighten up a space. It's considered the happy color. It can give you an emotional boost everyday you enter your work space. When painting your walls stick with paler shades, brighter shades can cause irritation and frustration.
Red - This energizing and stimulating color can be a boost to your creativity, but too much red can be overwhelming and too stimulating. Instead of doing a whole room in red, just do one wall or use it for your accessories.
If painting is not an option in your space, try adding a bright desk chain, a rug, colorful accents on book shelves, with desk accessories and storage boxes, and over sized art work. There is always a way to add the pop of color you need.
Before you add any color to your space, decide how your space will be used. If it's mostly for doing office work you may want brighter shades to to keep you motivated. If it's your studio space, maybe a neutral background so your art colors the space. Choose your colors based on what helps you function at your best.
Choosing a color is a personal choice, but if you plan well and choose the color that is going to inspire you to do your best work, you will be happy with your space for years.
What color is your studio/office space?
4.19.2012
An Interview with Timothy Adam
I have been following Tim and his career since 2008. I have purchased his ebooks, taken his e-courses, and been reading his blogs for years. He has built a huge following and is an expert in starting, running, and marketing an Etsy shop.
He is not only passionate about sharing his knowledge, but he is also an amazing metal artist. He creates furniture, jewelry displays, and has a collection of unique jewelry. Visit his Etsy shop to see all of his inspired pieces.
When I decided to start Inspired Success Week I knew I wanted to do and interview with Tim. I was thrilled when he agreed and volunteered to help with spread the word. Thanks Tim!
I have had to pleasure to follow your career of creating amazing metal artwork, a variety of blogs and websites, and writing a book. How is your business different today then when you started selling online?
I remember the day I started ... and sadly it was on ebay... I tried selling my Les Paul Coffee table on ebay and lost $40 in listing fees and never sold it... blah. Then a friend told me about Etsy...... that's where it all began! I started my shop in February of 2007 and had to quit my job a year and a half later due to the volume of sales.. I even had to hire my friend to help me fill orders during the Christmas season. During those crazy years I actually found the time to blog and grow a social media network. Fast forward to today, and my business is very different then when I first started. I still sell my metal all over the world, but it has slowed. The main part of my business is Handmadeology. The blog , Handmadeology Pro, and the Etsy shop.
You are passionate about helping other creative individuals with their businesses, what inspires you to share everything you have learned about building a business online?
There is one story that inspires me to this day, and here it is. In 2008 I was blogging on my old blog teaching sellers how to run an Etsy shop, and I received an email from an Etsy seller. She said she was following my tips and started to set up her shop when she lost her job at the bank. She went on to say that her shop took off and now she was making more selling on Etsy then she ever did at the bank. So you ask what inspires me? If I can teach someone how to make extra money to help pay the bills from selling what they love to make then my job is done! I love hearing from people that this blog post helped, or this ebook changed my way of thinking. The success of my readers, fans, followers, customers, and clients is what inspires me to help.
How do you stay motivated on a daily basis juggling your business, your Etsy shop, and your family?
Providing for my family is my main motivation. It helps to have a wife that shares the same vision of owning your own business. Yes at times it is a struggle to get everything done business wise and still have time for a life and family.
Do you have a book that has inspired you and help you gain focus for your business?
I don't really have one particular book that comes to mind, but there isn't one day that goes by that I am not learning something new. I am always on the hunt for articles, ebooks, videos, you name it!
What is your favorite part of running your business?
My wife owns her own photography business,so I love being able work at home with my wife and son. The flexibility of owning your own business is awesome... right now we are planing our first family vacation!
Here is a Television News story about Tim and his Business
Thank you Tim for taking the time to share your inspiring story with us!
Connect with Tim - Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Etsy shop ~ Website
If you could ask Timothy one question what would it be?
He is not only passionate about sharing his knowledge, but he is also an amazing metal artist. He creates furniture, jewelry displays, and has a collection of unique jewelry. Visit his Etsy shop to see all of his inspired pieces.
When I decided to start Inspired Success Week I knew I wanted to do and interview with Tim. I was thrilled when he agreed and volunteered to help with spread the word. Thanks Tim!
I have had to pleasure to follow your career of creating amazing metal artwork, a variety of blogs and websites, and writing a book. How is your business different today then when you started selling online?
I remember the day I started ... and sadly it was on ebay... I tried selling my Les Paul Coffee table on ebay and lost $40 in listing fees and never sold it... blah. Then a friend told me about Etsy...... that's where it all began! I started my shop in February of 2007 and had to quit my job a year and a half later due to the volume of sales.. I even had to hire my friend to help me fill orders during the Christmas season. During those crazy years I actually found the time to blog and grow a social media network. Fast forward to today, and my business is very different then when I first started. I still sell my metal all over the world, but it has slowed. The main part of my business is Handmadeology. The blog , Handmadeology Pro, and the Etsy shop.
 |
| Read more about Handmadeology Pro |
There is one story that inspires me to this day, and here it is. In 2008 I was blogging on my old blog teaching sellers how to run an Etsy shop, and I received an email from an Etsy seller. She said she was following my tips and started to set up her shop when she lost her job at the bank. She went on to say that her shop took off and now she was making more selling on Etsy then she ever did at the bank. So you ask what inspires me? If I can teach someone how to make extra money to help pay the bills from selling what they love to make then my job is done! I love hearing from people that this blog post helped, or this ebook changed my way of thinking. The success of my readers, fans, followers, customers, and clients is what inspires me to help.
 |
| Copper rivet series camera |
 |
| Simple Necklace Tree T-Bar Display |
Providing for my family is my main motivation. It helps to have a wife that shares the same vision of owning your own business. Yes at times it is a struggle to get everything done business wise and still have time for a life and family.
Do you have a book that has inspired you and help you gain focus for your business?
I don't really have one particular book that comes to mind, but there isn't one day that goes by that I am not learning something new. I am always on the hunt for articles, ebooks, videos, you name it!
What is your favorite part of running your business?
My wife owns her own photography business,so I love being able work at home with my wife and son. The flexibility of owning your own business is awesome... right now we are planing our first family vacation!
Here is a Television News story about Tim and his Business
Thank you Tim for taking the time to share your inspiring story with us!
Connect with Tim - Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Etsy shop ~ Website
If you could ask Timothy one question what would it be?
4.18.2012
Be Inspired Business Products
If you own an Etsy shop then you have probably heard of Timothy Adam. He has been selling his metal work on Etsy and helping other artists succeed on Etsy since 2007. In an interview tomorrow, Timothy will share how he got started and what inspires him to share what he has learned to the creative community.
Today I have links to a variety of products and websites Timothy has created to help you in your creative venture.
Handmadeology.com - Handmadeology exists for the purpose of teaching artists how to successfully sell their handmade goods online, and to feature the newest handmade, vintage and supply items found on Etsy. This blog is packed with everything you need for running an online business, and with an extensive team of writers the blog is updated daily.
Handmadeology Pro - This site gives you the knowledge, business tools, and tips to help your handmade business thrive. For only $10 a month you receive valuable information on a special members only website . This site is for the seller who is serious about growing their business.
Handmadeology Etsy Shop - Timothy has put together practical products for improving your business and achieving your goals. The newest product is the Handmade Booking Complete everything you need to track your inventory, sales, bank accounts and more. If you do craft shows The Craft Show Manager is another must have product to make your life easier. Visit the Etsy shop today for a variety of products you can use for your business.
Free Etsy Success Tools - There are a variety of free e-courses and spread sheets available. Click here for more information.
Follow Handmadeology on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest info.
There is lots of good information available online and Timothy is a leader in our creative community. Learn something new, visit his sites today!
What's a business tool you wish you had to make running your online business easier?
Handmadeology Pro - This site gives you the knowledge, business tools, and tips to help your handmade business thrive. For only $10 a month you receive valuable information on a special members only website . This site is for the seller who is serious about growing their business.
Handmadeology Etsy Shop - Timothy has put together practical products for improving your business and achieving your goals. The newest product is the Handmade Booking Complete everything you need to track your inventory, sales, bank accounts and more. If you do craft shows The Craft Show Manager is another must have product to make your life easier. Visit the Etsy shop today for a variety of products you can use for your business.
Free Etsy Success Tools - There are a variety of free e-courses and spread sheets available. Click here for more information.
Follow Handmadeology on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest info.
There is lots of good information available online and Timothy is a leader in our creative community. Learn something new, visit his sites today!
What's a business tool you wish you had to make running your online business easier?
4.17.2012
Traits of a Successful Entrepreneur
Entrepreneur - en·tre·pre·neur
a person who organizes and manages any enterprise, especially
a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk.
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Do you consider yourself an entrepreneur?
You have a business online selling your creations, it could be a full time venture, part-time, a hobby, or just for fun, however you choose to run your business you are an entrepreneur!
If you have not fully embraced the fact that you are an entrepreneur, or your not ready to call yourself one, it's time to seriously consider yourself an entrepreneur!
Did you know there are ten traits that successful entrepreneurs share:
Risk taker - Being a risk taker means considering your options, knowing your business, and being ready to make changes quickly.
Has a business and personal vision - Envisioning your business from start to finish with a clear plan for how you want to succeed. This includes your personal life as well, because your vision is the foundation for your business.
Drive and determination - Having a dedication to your vision and self-motivation, will keep you working hard to grow your business.
Self-confident - People respond positively to people who are confident about what they want to achieve.
Flexible -You wear many hats as an entrepreneur, being able to change your plans, troubleshoot, and generate ideas efficiently, while produce the results you want.
Powerful communicator - Being able to listen carefully, be sensitive, and see things from your customers perspective, is key to being a powerful communicator.
Smart decision maker - An entrepreneur makes decisions and finds solutions by gathering information, and basing decisions on facts.
Action/results oriented - To be results oriented you must plan, prioritize, project, have follow through, and problem solve.
Multitasker - Be willing to do many different tasks, even those you don't like to keep your business running smoothly.
Optimistic attitude - High expectations equals success. Express gratitude for what you have rather then focusing on what you don't.
Do you have all these traits? Then you are ready for success.
If you are still struggling with the idea of being an entrepreneur or you don't practice all these traits, then it's time for some brainstorming.
Print out this worksheet to brainstorm your ideas.
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| Click here to print |
When you start thinking of yourself as an entrepreneur things will change in your business. You will work harder to achieve success, and turn your small business into a successful business.
Do you consider yourself and entrepreneur?
Interview with Timothy Adam editor of Handmadeology.com this Thursday!
4.16.2012
Motivation Monday
Inspired Success Week - Day One
Have you ever noticed how motivated people are when they are passionate about what they are doing?
If you let your passion for what you are doing be your driving source for success, it will motivate you everyday to move forward and succeed.
Your passion is what gets you up everyday, helps you face challenging problems, and lets you discover new and better ways to get things done.
Don't hold back let your passion for doing what you love show you the way to success!
Have you defined your passion?
Interview with Timothy Adam Editor of
Handmadeology this Thursday.
Handmadeology this Thursday.
4.15.2012
Inspired Success Week
I did!
I decided to start Inspired Success week because of my desire to know what inspired the many artist, blogger, and creative/business coaches who have built a successful creative business online.
Inspired Success week will be a monthly series till the end of 2012. The week will be filled with ideas to stay motivated, lots of tips, product suggestions, and highlighted with an interview from a leader in the handmade community.
Inspired Success Week starts tomorrow.
What you can expect:
Monday - Motivation tip
Tuesday - Business tip
Wednesday - Be Inspired Business Products
Thursday - Featured Interview
Friday - Your Home Office / Studio
This week (4/19), I am thrilled to have Timothy Adam the Editor of Handmadeology.com as the first featured interviewee. He has been working his online business since 2007 and is now a successful online entrepreneur.
Join me All week for inspired ideas for your online business!
Share with your blog community. Add this button to you blog today.
<div align="center"><a href="http://additionsstyle.blogspot.com/p/inspired-success-week.html" title="Inspired Success Week"><img src="http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w421/additionsstyle/inspiredsuccessweek125x125button-3.jpg" alt="Inspired Success Week" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
If you have any ideas, thoughts, or suggestions of people you would like me to interview contact me at additionsstyleblog@gamil.com
Lots of good stuff stop by everyday!
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