Calling all procrastinators: Spring Bash apps are due March 10

Okay, procrastinators, time is running out for Spring Bash apps. The deadline to apply for the Etsy Dallas Spring Bash is March 10, 2017. We reached out to a few of our previous vendors for feedback and here’s a little bit of what we heard …

“The Bashes are always so much fun.” - Heidy, Heidy Henke Designs

“I love our shoppers. They are always excited to see what’s new at the Bash. Many stop by, just to say hi and check in on you while they shop. Spring Bash shoppers are the best!” - SaRatta, Expressions Bracelets

“The energy, quality and variety is always a fun way to prepare for some of those spring and summer events. I can always find a perfect gift for mom, a gift for dad, and something for those June brides.” - Alexis, Whipped Up Wonderful

“It’s like a super concentrated show set on fast forward! I just love the energy!” - Lynn, Both Hands Studio

“It is so fun to get to share our art and craft with our shoppers face-to-face. I am always blown away by all the talent of all the other vendors too!” - Sabrina, The Pig and The Peacock

We are counting down the days, y'all. We hope you're as excited as we are! If you want to apply to be part of the Spring Bash this year, be sure to get your application in no later than March 10!

Join our team!

Etsy Dallas Team applications are open through February 3rd!  Apply to join our group of dedicated, fun-loving creatives here!  We are serious about growing the handmade movement, and educating our community on the importance of small business in our economy.  If that sounds like you or someone you know, check us out and share!

2016 Jingle Bash: Photo Backdrop

It takes a lot of team and individual effort to make our shows a success! I'm sharing a post from my personal blog today to show you what goes into painting the one of a kind photo backdrop. We hire a professional photographer and create a scene so you can have a free keepsake from this time of year, and our event. When all the photos have been uploaded to our Flickr we will make an announcement, so you can download, print, and share freely!  Check it out!

Another show, and another challenge accepted! These 8x10 foot paintings have become quite an event in my house! I grow so much as an artist just by saying "yes" and going for it. I should broaden that statement to person instead.  

I put my husband's GoPro to good use on a time lapse this time too! Enjoy, I hope we see you tomorrow from 11-5 at Gilley's Dallas for the big show! 

A video posted by Katrina Huffman (@rhapsodyletterpress) on Nov 17, 2016 at 6:06am PST

2016 Jingle Bash: Bash Bag Preview

Y’all, I must say the coveted Bash Bags are even more covet-worthy this year thanks to these very generous Jingle Bash artists. Be sure to arrive extra early to snag an official 2016 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash tote bag packed with these handmade goodies. They will only be given out to the first 50 adults in line when the doors open at 11:00am. Whether or not you get a Bash Bag, you will definitely want to check out each of these shops to see all the handmade goodness they have to offer!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/SurlyBunny Surly Bunny-bottlecap openers
http://landofthethread.com Land of the Thread-bracelets
https://www.etsy.com/shop/hangingbythreads Hanging by Threads-tassel clips
https://www.etsy.com/shop/lipglosserie Lip Glosserie-cuticle balm
https://www.etsy.com/shop/fuzzyhipposhop Fuzzy Hippo-notecards
https://www.etsy.com/shop/oldnewmiddle Old New Middle-felted hearts
http://monster-dance-designs.myshopify.com Monster Dance Design-notecards
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ashtreeartpaintings Ashtree Art-koozies
https://www.etsy.com/shop/napkinart Napkin Art-notecards
http://cheenibaby.bigcartel.com Cheeni Baby-notecards
https://www.etsy.com/shop/monorail Monorail Studio-art prints and notecards
http://www.brazedbrand.com Brazed Brand-map key rings
https://www.etsy.com/shop/katfrenchdesign Kat French Design-coasters
https://www.etsy.com/shop/thepigandthepeacock The Pig and the Peacock-snowflake soap

http://pigseyart.com Pigsey Art-ornaments and magnets
http://www.gastonmade.com Gaston Made-coasters
https://www.etsy.com/shop/chetart Chet Art-pins and art cards
http://www.valeriemorgandesigns.com/store/c1/Featured_Products.html Valerie Morgan Designs-earrings
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MonicaLKnighton Monica L. Knighton Illustration-stickers, wood engraved pins
https://www.etsy.com/shop/expressionsbracelets Expressions Bracelets-pendants
https://www.etsy.com/shop/petportraitsbyholly Pet Portraits by Holly-art cards
http://www.alazanceramics.com Alazan Ceramics-temporary tattoos, candy
http://www.pennybpottery.com Penny B Pottery-ceramic ornaments
https://www.etsy.com/shop/joycreativeshop Joy Creative Shop-holiday cards
https://www.etsy.com/shop/tokodots Tokodots-Texas notecards
https://www.etsy.com/shop/acheeryblossom a cheery blossom-leather luggage tags
https://www.etsy.com/shop/BLUEFLAMESTUDIOS Blue Flame Studios-postcards
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TesoroJewelry Tesoro-bracelet cuffs
https://www.etsy.com/shop/wanderlustwaresshop Wanderlust Wares-pins
 

2016 Jingle Bash: Make & Take

Take a break from all the shopping bliss at the 2016 Easy Dallas Jingle Bash to visit with the talented instructors from Creative Arts Center of Dallas. At each of our events we like to provide shoppers with a chance to exercise their creative muscles. And for this, you won’t need to bring any of the supplies or even remember your Pinterest password. CAC is sponsoring our Make and Take tables and they will walk you through all the steps to create some fun projects. Depending on when you arrive, you will have a chance to try your hand at Winter Hat Ornaments, a Charity Knit-a-long, Mini Felt Ball Wreaths, Holiday Cards, and Found Object Ornaments. CAC will staff these free activity tables from 11am-5pm at the Jingle Bash.

When you visit be sure to ask them about all of their upcoming classes, workshops, and exhibitions. They have something for everyone whether your interests lie in fine art, ceramics, glassworks, jewelry, digital media or leather. They currently have a student/instructor exhibition from the jewelry and ceramic department and most of the work is for sale.

Check them out on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up with lots of local creative opportunities with CAC!
 

Sponsor Spotlight: Etsy

YES. You read that right, Etsy, Inc. is sponsoring Jingle Bash!  We are so thrilled to have their support!  I'm sure you are already familiar with Etsy, so I'm going to take this opportunity to talk about their mission statement, and what it means for artists and makers like our team members.

"Our mission is to reimagine commerce in ways that build a more fulfilling and lasting world."

This means putting the opportunity to thrive in the hands of local artisans, and making their goods available on a reputable global platform. They are helping to level the playing field, and leading the handmade, small business movement! This means more money coming and staying in your communities, from the hands of thoughtful consumers to conscientious creatives.

Sponsor Spotlight: Dallas Child

Today, I have the wonderful privilege of introducing you to one of our favorite local resources and supporters, Dallas Child! If you are a local mom, you have to know about this awesome site and publication! It is an endless local database for what is going on in the area, where to shop, where to eat, awesome parenting articles, and even a list of the top rated physicians recommended by other local moms. Be sure to check them out and sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date on all the DFW happenings!

Debuting at Jingle Bash

It's almost here, it's almost here! Jingle Bash is on November 19th! Check out some of the cheerful holiday cards from our artists that are making their debut! Click for more info!

Book Review: The War of Art

Hi guys!  I'm sharing a post from my personal blog today to introduce you all to a concept known as resistance.  I hope you enjoy, and find it to be inspiring!

I always find myself with a creative block after a big show or project.  It is like I have run out of creative fuel, and my idea bus is stranded on the side of the road at night in the middle of nowhere.  Often, I take this as an opportunity to enjoy the stars, or clean the windows until my tow truck comes along.  This could take days.  Or weeks.  A few times it has taken months.  After my daughter was born, it took years.  My tow truck driver is Steven Pressfield, and he's coming in The War of Art. 

Personally, I listen to this short "jump start" of a novel on Audible because I need busy hands while listening to non-fiction.  But, however you best receive information, I encourage you to imbibe this knowledge.  I would have never considered this book, in favor instead of something more recent, or maybe with prettier cover art (shameful admission).  Regardless of a few dated references and some really out there topics, the heart of this novel is timeless and imperative for creatives, or anyone who believes in a higher purpose.  If I were a professor, my semesters would begin with this book specifically to introduce everyone to the formerly unnamed phenomenon he calls "resistance."

If you haven't already taken the link above, and claimed your copy (new perspective on life) of The War of Art (clever name, I know. I revel in word play), allow me to further convince you.  Resistance is a broad term to define that which distracts you or repels you from doing your work.  Not just any work, I am referring to the significant work of your life.  What is your purpose, your genius, the thing that defines you and separates you as a person?  What is your God given gift or talent that you can share?  Well dang, heavy questions for this early in the morning, right?  Drink your coffee and think.

My life's work is art.  Whatever medium I can get my hands on that will communicate with the world (or even just one lost individual) a message of hope or encouragement.  I want to move people in a way that brings them to action or resolution.  I aim to inspire people to believe or have faith in themselves.  So, it is no wonder that the concept of resistance resonates with me.  If my message in life is to encourage others to try again, resistance isn't just my personal enemy, keeping me from doing my own work.  Resistance is my enemy in you, also.

Did I lose you?  Hold tight, I am going to break it down.  Resistance is the sensation that arrives when you are just about to embark on a spiritual/physical/artistic calling for growth, and suddenly have the overwhelming need to do the dishes.  Or play a video game.  Or begin a different unrelated project.  Whatever excuse that keeps you from not following your revolutionary path at class/church/gym/practice is resistance.  Resistance loves addiction, and insecurity- he has you right where he wants you.  "The more important a call or action is to our souls evolution, the more resistance we will feel toward pursuing it."  Resistance arrives wherever courage is required; it is fueled by fear.

Do you know what I am talking about?  Can you relate?  Seems impossible, right?  Now, imagine if you could learn to use that sensation as a compass to navigate where your best efforts should be spent.  Progress.  Transformation.  Fulfillment.  This book can reprogram your mindset about procrastination and reinvigorate your passion.  I have not even touched any concepts beyond the second chapter.  So, #treatyoself to something different this weekend, I can't wait to hear your thoughts! 

Weekend Guide: Pacesetters Holiday Bazaar

Happy Friday, readers!  What are you up to this weekend?  It is too glorious outside for binge watching Netflix.  If you are looking for something fun in the area, several of our members are setting up for the J.J. Pearce Pacesetters Holiday Bazaar!  This event looks like a party!  There is a "famous" bake sale, sweepstakes with tons of prizes, and of course, awesome handmade shopping.  Check out their event website for more info, and be sure to say "Hi" to Sabrina and Jenny of The Pig & the Peacock, Alex of Wandering Paper Co., and Emily of MushTushy!  

Papaya & Passion Fruit Shea Butter and Glycerin Soap - The Pig and the Peacock

Moroccon Linocut Block Print from Wandering Paper Co.

Handpainted Sugar Skull from MushTushy

Weekend Guide: Arts Goggle

Hello!  Are you just loving this Fall weather?  I am!  I feel like we are all waking up after hiding from the heat all Summer.  If you are looking for an awesome event to get out in the fresh air, Etsy Dallas members are pumped about the Arts Goggle in Fort Worth.  October 8th, from 12:00pm to 10:00pm, this free outdoor festival takes place on scenic Magnolia Avenue, and features live local music, food, artists and vendors.  Be sure to say "Hi" to Big T Woodworks, and MushTushy while you are there.  Their booths are always full of smiling faces and good stuff.  Have an awesome weekend, Dallas!

Last Call for Jingle Bash Applications!

Applications are due by Saturday, September 10th, so hustle! Our hearts and best go into making this an amazing shopping experience for our community every year, so don't miss out! We want you! Apply here!

Smiling shoppers line up around the block early for bash bags and entry!

Happy sellers and artists from the 2016 Jingle Bash!

Festive lights and music, stocked booths, and family friendly shopping to kick off the holiday season!

Call for Artists - Apply for Jingle Bash 2016

Applications are now open for one of the best DFW shows of the year, The Jingle Bash! Our juried show is a hugely popular single day event featuring a variety of talents in every handmade category. Last year, we had a record number of attendees, and local sponsors! The show will take place on November 19th at Southside Events Center at Gilley's Dallas, so mark your calendar, and be sure to apply before September 3rd!

3rd Annual Crafts for Crayons

Hi readers!  Back to school time is here, and Etsy Dallas is hosting our annual school supply drive for Girls Incorporated of Metropolitan Dallas.  Bring some pencils, crayons, notebooks and meet us at NorthPark Center on August 13, 2016 from 1:00 to 5:00pm.  Our members will be teaching some fun kid friendly crafts, and spreading awareness for an important local cause.  Check out the video below.  We hope to see you there!

Creative Business Classes from Etsy Dallas Pros

I hope you are having a fun and creative Summer! It is such a great time to collect, refocus, plan and dream. Etsy Dallas would love to help you get your shop in tip top shape for the upcoming holiday season! Check out the classes below, connect with us on Facebook, and let's work together to get people pumped about shopping small in DFW!    

Get Ready For the Etsy Craft Party 2016!

Hello everyone! It is time for the Etsy Craft Party! This is a big Etsy event where each local team gets together with their community to mingle, and create something fun together!

Mark June 18th at Dallas Makerspace from 1-3pm in your calendar! This is a free, family friendly event, so join us for fun, snacks, and crafts!

RSVP here so we can be ready for you!  Can't wait to see you there!

Sponsor Spotlight: The Pig and the Peacock

Etsy Dallas favorites, Sabrina and Jenny of The Pig and the Peacock make beautiful handcrafted soaps, lotions, and candles. Their booth is an aromatic feast, so be sure check them out on Saturday! Look for the huge crowd surrounding these two lovely sisters, smiling and packaging orders, you can't miss them!




Are you debuting any new items at the Spring Bash?
We have made several new soaps that we will introduce at the Bash including Black Currant, Honeysuckle, and Cranberry Salsa. You’ll have to check out our booth to find the rest! We’ll also have some new Spring/Summer scents in our candles.

Do you have any favorite stories from your customers about your products?
I think our favorite story is not from any specific customer, but many people tell us our soaps look good enough to eat, and in fact, it’s true! We have had a couple of people receive our soaps as gifts and take a bite out of them before realizing what it was! 

How has your work evolved since you began The Pig and The Peacock?
Our collection is constantly changing and growing. We have more ideas and designs in our heads than we can possibly ever make so we have started rotating out scents and designs to make room for new ones. We have also added new product lines the past couple of years, like our new lip balms and our DejaVino Wine Bottle Candles.

Sponsor Spotlight: Regal Cottage

Etsy Dallas rockstar, Regina from Regal Cottage has been preparing for the Spring Bash for months! I always adore her precious toys, and look forward to her booth. Be sure to visit her on Saturday, and add her on Instagram to peek inside design and production of her fun and thoughtful work!

How has your collection evolved since you began Regal Cottage?
My collection has definitely evolved over the years. I started out making kids' clothing and made a few toys just for fun. I quickly realized that I enjoyed making toys so much more. I knew I would do best if I followed my heart and focused on creating eco-friendly toys. Over the last year, I have worked to develop my own exclusive fabric designs. I love incorporating my original illustrations into my work. It gives me the ability to make each of my most popular products in coordinating fabrics from larger plush toys and baby rattles to plush balls and teethers. 

Do you have any favorite stories from customers?
My favorite customer story is when an expecting Mom bought a ball for her baby-to-be. She later let me know that she knew her baby would love it, but she was amazed to see just how obsessed she became over time with that ball. She took it everywhere, and her first word was even "ball." That Mom has become one of my best customers. She buys a rattle ball from me for every baby shower she attends. Every time I see her order come in, it brings such a smile to my face. 

What are you selling at the Spring Bash this year?
I will be bringing our best selling rattle balls, in new bright spring colors with bold geometric prints and lots of our wildly popular metallic moon, cloud and star pillows.

Sponsor Spotlight: In Your Bones

Meet my incredible friend, Gabriela, creator behind In Your Bones, a colorful and kind business benefitting Texas Husky Rescue.

Gabriela is a seasoned participant in the Etsy Dallas Bashes, and her booth is always packed with bright, unique, and heirloom quality sewn goods and embroidery. She lives in Austin area, keeps a small orchard and a few beehives, along with her four rescued huskies, and is a proud and fervent supporter of small business. Her work and support helped save over 300 dogs last year!

You can follow In Your Bones on Instagram for a peek into her beautiful life, and be sure to check out her shop, and come by the In Your Bones booth at the Spring Bash on Saturday!

2016 Spring Bash Bag Reveal!

The Spring Bash kicks off at 10:30am this year, but you may want to get there early for a chance to snag one of our ever popular Bash Bags. The first 50 shoppers in line for the Bash will get one of these reusable bags chock full of Spring Bash vendor swag!

At the Bash Bag stuffing party we got a sneak peek at what's in the bag and are pretty excited (anyone wanna wait in line for us?!) and we think you will be too!

{makes me smile} ain't no party like a Bash Bag party #2016springbash #EtsyDallas #etsydallas2016 #etsydallaspad #teamwork #creativeminds

A video posted by Etsy Dallas (@etsydallas) on Apr 17, 2016 at 2:11pm PDT

A huge thank you to our amazing Bash Bag sponsors this year:

Guys & Ties - Bow Ties
Wandering Paper Co - Cards
Precious Little Tot - Key Chains Wristlet
The Pig and the Peacock - Handmade Soap
Of Earth - Necklaces 
Captivated Calligraphy - Cards
Quirk + Thrift - Coin Purse
A Cheery Blossom - Leather Cord Wraps
Unboxed Studio - Pencils 
Expressions Bracelets - Charms
InYourBones - Embroidered Appliqués 
Land of the Thread - Bracelets
Lemon Glaze - Charms
Makers Connect - Buttons 
Kathleen Care Jewelry - Bracelets 
Tessa Bunny's - Organic Play Clay
Silver Tines Spoon Jewelry - Key Chains 
Tesoro Jewelry - Engraved Bracelets
And some surprises from Pop Shop America, PediaQ, and Etsy Dallas!
Don't forget, to get your very own Bash Bag you'll have to get there early! See you Saturday!