Etsy Trade-A-Holics

and the voting begins... PUMPKIN PATCH!

2011-10-20T03:29:00.000-07:00

yay! we are so impressed by the turnout for this month's design challenge! pumpkins and autumn are definitely inspirational! take a look at the entries and click on the link on the top right corner of this blog to cast your vote! you can only vote once, so make it count! feel free to tweet, blog, and spread the news about the challenges and the treasuries so everyone can see how awesome our team is!

thanks to everyone for entering - and for voting!

october's design challenge... PUMPKIN PATCH!

2011-09-27T04:40:00.000-07:00

necklace by simplyraevyn - sorry, i couldn't resist using it because it's so darned cute

Autumn is upon us, the kids are back at school and the leaves are changing! So… it’s time for another design challenge! This month’s challenge is "PUMPKIN PATCH", as chosen by the last winner, jaxxcandles! As always, we leave the interpretation of the theme up to you – there are no limits!

the rules are simple:

- entries will be accepted until october 18th, 2011 at 5pm EST (that’s etsy time)

- only one entry per individual (you can only submit one entry even if you have multiple shops)

- all entries MUST be handmade and listed for sale/trade in your Etsy shop. (no supplies or destash please!)

- all entries must reflect in some way the current theme "PUMPKIN PATCH"

- tag your item with this month's challenge tag "tradeoct11" so that people can find your item!

- when you're ready to enter, CONVO muffintopdesigns with the LISTING ID# only of your entry (it's the number that you use when you make treasuries). it's located on the actual listing page below the listing date and above the number of views your item has had. we will be making treasuries with the entries and posting the widgets on the blog so everyone can check everything out (and maybe end up on the front page?)

Feel free to promote the challenge - and yourself! - via facebook, twitter, etsy, your blog or hot air balloon! the voting will start on october 20th and go till the 25th!

thanks to you all – especially the lovely jaxxcandles for choosing this theme! and as always - TRADE ON!

xoxoox muffin & raevyn & the tradeaholics’ leader team!

Congratulations to JAXXCANDLES!

2011-08-24T02:37:00.000-07:00

Without further ado, the Tradeaholics present this month's challenge winner! Congratulations to the fabulous JaxxCandles - and many thanks to the wonderful InfusedDesigns for her amazing interview!

Jackie Weber, of Jaxx Candles won the monthly challenge with her cool striped star floating candles. I had the pleasure of interviewing her and here is what she had to say.

Trade-A-Holics: How did you come up with your winning design?

Jaxx Candles: For the summer I think floating candles are nice additions to outdoor parties. I found star molds and thought they would be perfect. Then I got the idea to make them in layers of red, white and blue to have stars AND stripes!

TAH: How long have you been crafting?

Jaxx: I have been a crafter all my life, but have been making candles since 2002.

TAH: Who taught you?

Jaxx: As for candle making, I began by reading books and experimenting. In more recent years I have joined forums and candle organizations where I have met other candle makers who willingly share their experiences. I have also used the Internet for research. And I even attended a candle workshop where I learned a lot from experienced candle makers.

TAH: Do you have any formal training in any crafting/art subject?

Jaxx: As stated above I have read a lot, experimented a lot, and met and learned a lot from other candle makers, but I am not sure that would be considered formal training.

TAH: When did you open your Etsy store?

Jaxx: November 2010

TAH: Do you have other venues you sell at, like craft shows or other online stores?

Jaxx: I do sell at local craft shows. I also have online stores through Etsy and ByTheseHands.com. I also sell my products at a store in my hometown that caters to local artisans.

TAH: What is one of your favorite items in your store?

Jaxx: I love many of them, but I would have to say my long stem roses are one of my favorites. From a simple single rose, to a full bouquet, they are beautiful and everyone who has received them just loves them.

TAH: Where do you gain inspiration for your items?

Jaxx: EVERYWHERE! I see containers and think, ‘wow, that would make a nice candle!’ I see home decor and envision how my candles could fit into the different designs. I live and breathe candles and candle making. It is definitely my passion.

TAH: Do you feel like you have found a niche for the items you sell?

Jaxx: I am working on that. Candles come in all shapes, sizes and varieties. I have customers from all age groups. I offer every day products, but I also offer unique one of a kind items and targeting this market has been a bit trickier. I obviously want to cater to a large number of consumers, but I have definitely started small and will continue to expand and define my niche areas.

TAH: What advice can you give your fellow team members?

Jaxx: One thing I have learned is to do what you love. Candle making is my passion and I seem to have endless energy for it. If you do what you love the rest should fall into place. It is not easy, though, and takes hard work, but is so rewarding.

Thank you again to Jackie and to Arina! Next month's challenge details will be up shortly, so stay tuned!!!!!!!!

july's design challenge - FREEFORM STARS AND STRIPES!

2011-07-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

Hello again everyone! here are the details for July’s Design Challenge! The fabulous aneurythm has chosen "freeform stars and stripes" as our next theme! so, we hope you’ve been thinking of your next creations!!!!

the rules are simple:

- entries will be accepted until july 29th, 2011.

- only one entry per individual (you can only submit one entry even if you have multiple shops)

- all entries MUST be handmade and listed for sale/trade in your Etsy shop. (no supplies or destash please!)

- all entries must reflect in some way the current theme "FREEFORM STARS AND STRIPES"

- tag your item with this month's challenge tag "tradejuly11" so that people can find your item!

- when you're ready to enter, CONVO muffintopdesigns with the LISTING ID# of your entry (it's the number that you use when you make treasuries). it's located on the actual listing page below the listing date and above the number of views your item has had. we will be making treasuries with the entries in alphabetical order by shop name and posting the widgets on the blog so everyone can check everything out (and maybe end up on the front page!)

- PLEASE NOTE – if you do not send the LISTING ID#, your item will not be included. You do not have to send anything else, just the listing ID#, so it’s a lot less work for everyone!

Feel free to promote the challenge - and yourself! - via facebook, twitter, etsy, your blog or hot air balloon! the voting will start on july 30^th and go till august 5th!

thanks to you all – and to our sweet aneurythm for choosing such an awesome theme - and as always - TRADE ON!

congratulations, aneurythm! and next month's challenge...

2011-06-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

i have "known" aneurythm for a long time - her avatar features her sweet Wonder Pup's face and i really can't imagine our team without her. so i am pleased as punch to feature her shop because she won our last design challenge!

dubbing her work as "ethno-boho" (love love love the term!) Merry's designs truly embrace the earthy sensibilities of untreated gemstones and metals, while catering to the bohemian esthetic. beautifully handcrafted, her necklaces are delightfully chunky and speaks her amazing sense of color. you can totally imagine wearing her creations with a long, flowing peasant skirt and an off-the-shoulder gauzy blouse.

i was fascinated to find out that Merry moved from upstate New York to the sunny shores of california - which i would probably do too if i had the chance! after suffering a brain aneurysm (hence her shop name) in 1997, she turned to jewelry making as a way to help rehabilitate herself. add that to also completing her PhD in psychology, we have a picture of a well-rounded tradeaholic.

thank you, Merry - for entering the design challenge, having such an amazing shop and for sharing your courageous story with us!

Merry has chosen "Freeform Stars and Stripes" as july's design challenge theme! how perfectly fitting for the 4th of july! so watch this space - and your email - for the design challenge details - and put your creative thinking cap on!!!!

May Design Challenge - the POLL is UP!

2011-05-18T02:24:00.000-07:00

thanks to everyone for hanging in there as i tried to work with the glitches on blogger for the design challenge vote - seriously, they have been having some issues as of late, much to my chagrin! and a HUGE thank you to everyone for trying to help me find better ways to show off the designs here - this time around we are testing the treasury widget to see if it helps people access the entries better! you should be able to click the treasuries above to see the entries in their entirety!

and of course, finally - the POLL is up! you have till the end of the month to vote! (to make up for the couple of days it took me to find another poll alternative!

so blog, facebook, twitter, and promote your entry and those of your fellow team members! and don't forget to VOTE!

xoxooxoox

let's go outside and play! design challenge details!

2011-04-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

hi everyone! here are the details for April/May's Design Challenge! as you might remember, the lovely seasandseasons has chosen "let's go outside and play!" as the next theme! so, with that in mind, here are the rules! we've changed things a little to hopefully make it easier to enter and for us to post when all of the entries are submitted so everyone can check out the talents!

the rules are simple:

- entries will be accepted until may 15th, 2011.

- only one entry per individual (you can only submit one entry even if you have multiple shops)

- all entries MUST be handmade and listed for sale/trade in your Etsy shop. (no supplies or destash please!)

- all entries must reflect in some way the current theme "let's go outside and play!"

- tag your item with this month's challenge tag "trademay11" so that people can find your item!

- when you're ready to enter, CONVO muffintopdesigns with the LISTING ID# of your entry (it's the number that you use when you make treasuries). it's located on the actual listing page below the listing date and above the number of views your item has had. we will be making treasuries with the entries in alphabetical order by shop name and posting the widgets on the blog so everyone can check everything out! hopefully this will be a better way to show off the team talents! (and maybe end up on the front page?)

Feel free to promote the challenge - and yourself! - via facebook, twitter, etsy, your blog or hot air balloon! the voting will start on may15th and go till the 25th!

thanks to you all - especially seasandseasons! - for being so awesome! happy springtime, and as always - TRADE ON!

xoxoox muffin & raevyn

congratulations to SEASANDSEASONS!

2011-03-12T01:09:00.000-08:00

the response to our last design challenge was more than we could have ever asked for! thank you to everyone who entered - seriously, you guys are so talented! however, as with all design challenges, the tribe has spoken (so to speak!) and the wonderful seasandseasons is this month's winner!

Seas And Seasons features a new creative outlet for CK, who recently retired from the fast paced world of advertising. The collection of beautiful seaside-inspired jewelry that fills her shop is the result of combining her love for hand craftsmanship with a stockpile of treasures gleaned from beachcombing since childhood. Some of the most stunning fine art photography is also offered here. Beach glass, seashells, and breathtaking views of the coast make CK’s shop irresistible. A newbie to trading, Seas And Seasons is definitely one of our favorite new members!

Email: seasandseasons@hotmail.com

Blog: etsyseasandseasons.blogspot.com/

because she is our winner this time around, CK has chosen "Let's Go Outside and Play" as the theme for May's design challenge. More details will follow! We are hoping to be able to streamline the design challenge process more this time around - the avalanche of entries has made us realize that we probably need someone to run the challenges ... so if you're interested, please don't hesitate to convo muffintop or raevyn if you think you're up to the job! Hopefully, we'll make the entries a little more accessible for everyone who visits the blog to vote - either here on blogger or through the new treasury features on etsy.

thank you to everyone again who voted - and a resounding THANK YOU to everyone who entered! we love you guys!

xoxoox muffin & raevyn

and the design challenge is on... baby, it's COLD outside!

2011-02-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

FINALLY! the design challenge voting is up! we had a HUGE response to this month's challenge which has been so fantastic!!!!

we had to change the way we post the items here on the blog this time around - with almost 40 entries it was too hard to post each image here. so, we ask that everyone use the search tag "TRADEFEBRUARY11" on etsy to see all the complete listings. the participating shops are as follows:

abespoketouch

amadorasbathcreation

amandajphotos

awhimofmine

blancheb

carlasinspirations

charlenefreemanart

divinebeautification

drmhas2

handymaiden

harvestmoonbyhand

ladyjayd

lindsaywhimsiestutu

love2embellish

magymai711

marciamenendez

melanieganson

mindybanta

ontherocksgems

piggytailsboutique

preciouselaine

raspberryswirl181

rayvenwoodmanor

retrobabs

rockpilewest

rubyreddragon

salutationscrochet

sandijagt

seaflowerstudios

seasandseasons

solcreator

solideogloriasdg

sparklegarden

suzannedesigns

the3maries

vixensnaturaljewelry

wedunitjewels

willowfolk

yarngraphics

yellowee

thank you for abespoketouch for the lovely graphic here with the entries! GORGEOUS!

we are looking at other options for next time's challenge in regards to posting the entries here on the blog - the wonderful amandaj suggested that we make treasuries and post the widget here - wicked! - so we will most likely do that next time around. sorry it took so long to post - and thank you to all the entrants for putting up with all my convos!

VOTE away! you have till the 28th to vote - so go NOW!

xoxoxoox muffin

happy holidays! and we heart firstlightglass!

2010-12-28T02:41:00.000-08:00

seriously, i owe firstlightglass a HUGE apology. not only have i slacked on writing up this feature since she was crowned the hands-down winner of october's design challenge, but because she and i have NEVER traded. her shop is GORGEOUS. and having worked alongside several lampworkers/fused glass artists, i know how much work goes into what she does!

mama by day, glass artist by night (or whenever she can squeeze it in), Dawn makes gorgeous dichroic fused glass pendants, fused glass artworks such as candle holders and fabulous plates and nightlights - and my favorites - slumped glass bottle spoonrests and cheese boards! she has a wonderful sense of color and design which is reflected in the photographs of her work in her etsy shop. with a background in architecture, fine art and city planning, Dawn definitely redefines "renaissance woman".

working from her home studio in jacksonville, FLA, Dawn continues to make awesome creations that delight all of us tradeaholics! thank you, Dawn, for sharing your amazing work with us!!!

now, the details for february's design challenge! Dawn has chosen the theme "It's COLD Outside!" as inspiration this time around.

the rules are simple:

- entries will be accepted until february 17th, 2011.

- only one entry per shop

- all entries MUST be handmade and listed for sale/trade in your Etsy shop. (no supplies or destash please!)

- all entries must reflect in some way the current theme "it's cold outside!"

- tag your item with this month's challenge tag "tradefebruary11" so that people can find your item!

- starting on february 10th, CONVO muffintopdesigns with a photo of your entry (it's easier to post on blogspot that way - plus it keeps me better organized)

Feel free to promote the challenge - and yourself! - via facebook, twitter, etsy, your blog or hot air balloon! the voting will start on february 19th and go till the 26th!

thanks to you all - especially firstlightglass! - for being so awesome! happy holidays and as always - TRADE ON!

xoxoox muffin & raevyn

a spooky halloween... and the challenge is ON!

2010-10-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

hiddengatedesigns

sweetpb

mjowest

i am so sorry about being late in posting this awesome design challenge... but it is definitely worth the wait! please vote on the sidebar - and spread the word about the voting! we'd love to get as many as we can! the poll will be closed on the 29th - just in time for halloween - so get voting! (if you did send me an entry before the deadline and i have forgotten to include it in this post, please convo me ASAP and i'll add you to this post! (i won't be able to add new people to the poll however, sorry!))

cortsthings

darlingdilemma

feltedkitten

firstlightglass

lizziebeesthings

lostsentiments

love2embellish

monkeytreecreations

thebackyardbear

yellowee

October's Design Challenge!

2010-09-24T18:41:00.000-07:00

we cannot believe that it is OCTOBER already! where did the summer go? and it's time for another design challenge! the winner of the last challenge - the lovely rayvenwoodmanor - has chosen "a spooky hallowe'en" as this month's inspiration!

entries will be accepted from now until the 17th of october. the rules are simple:

- only one entry per shop

- the item must be a handmade item, listed on etsy, and made by you (no supplies or destash, please)

- the item must somehow reflect the theme "a spooky hallowe'en"!

- tag your item with this month's challenge tag - "tradeoctober10"

- convo muffintopdesigns via etsy with a photo of your item (so that it's easier to post on the blog during voting!)

feel free to promote the challenge - and yourself, if you enter! - via twitter, facebook, on the etsy forums, and/or on your blog! the voting will start on october 18th and go till october 25th here on the blog and the winner will be announced on october 26th - just in time for HALLOWE'EN!!!!

so dust off your witch's hat and your broom and get creating! (thank you again, rayvenwoodmanor! and thank you, readingbunky for the photo of your awesome shirt!)

rayvenwoodmanor wins again... and our hallowe'en design challenge!

2010-09-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

as you probably figured out by now, the lovely rayvenwoodmanor swept our design challenge voting and is the winner!!! congratulations - seriously, that lovely boutonniere certainly deserved every vote!

in the spirit of all things haunted and ghostly, our lovely winner has chosen "a spooky hallowe'en" as the next challenge! so put your creative hat on and get thinking... more details on how to enter to follow ASAP!

thanks again to everyone who entered!

team treasuries! go team TRADEAHOLICS!

2010-08-21T15:09:00.000-07:00

We have a new forum thread on ning. It is for team treasuries!! A few members have pointed out that we should be using the treasuries to promote our team - get team members sales and maybe on the front page! So we are encouraging members to go out and make treasuries featuring team members. We have a very large team (858 members), and if we view, click and comment on each others team treasuries it could go a long way towards promoting and getting sales!! So we started a forum to post treasuries that you make featuring team members. http://tradeaholics.ning.com/forum/topics/team-treasuries Even if you don't make a treasury, please take a look at the thread and go to the treasuries that other members post. It only takes a small amount of time, and it is so helpful. Click and comment!!

(treasury courtesy of the lovely huggermugger!)

TIME TO VOTE! August's TradeAHolics' Design Challenge

2010-08-18T03:50:00.001-07:00

so, without further ado, here are your design challenge submissions for this month's theme - "a diamond in the rough"! please take the time to check out the talents of your fellow tradeaholics' (you can click on the links underneath each photo to see the full listing) and VOTE for your favorite on the sidebar! you have till august 25th to vote, at which time, the winner will be announced! thank you to all the shops that entered... we LOVE seeing what inspires you!

feel free to blog, tweet, facebook this challenge - the more votes, the better!

august's design challenge!

2010-07-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

as promised, the design challenges are back! so, without further ado, august's challenge is ON! this month's challenge has been chosen by the lovely rayvenwoodmanor and is "A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH".

entries will be accepted from now until the 17th of august. the rules are simple:
- only one entry per shop
- the item must be a handmade item, listed on etsy, and made by you (no supplies or destash, please)
- the item must somehow reflect the theme as chosen by the previous challenge winner
- tag your item with this month's challenge tag - "tradeaugust10"
- convo muffintopdesigns via etsy with a photo of your item (so that it's easier to post on the blog during voting!)

feel free to promote the challenge - and yourself, if you enter! - via twitter, facebook, on the etsy forums, and/or on your blog! the voting will start on august 18th and go till august 25th here on the blog and the winner will be announced on august 26th. SO GO AND GET CREATIVE! (and thank you again, rayvenwoodmanor!)

rayvenwood manor rocks! (and more design challenge info!)

2010-07-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

i have been the most awful tradeaholic. especially with the design challenge. i cannot apologize enough to you guys for being so lax with my duties. but between my return to work (i miss you, maternity leave!) and us selling, buying and moving into a new house, things have been crazy around here.

but, i'm mostly settled now, and i owe the wonderful rayvenwoodmanor this feature for winning March's design challenge! her shop is full of fabulous pretties and you HAVE to check it out. so without further ado, here is her long overdue interview! we love you, anastacia!

What made you decide to open shop on Etsy?

Etsy gives the seller the ability to reach many potential buyers all across the world while creating an environment where you can share and learn from other artists as well.

What does your shop feature?

Rayvenwodmanor's product line consists of Custom Jewelry, Handmade Hair Accessories, Heirloom Crystal Bridal Bouquets with matching Bridal Party Accessories, Unique Swavorski Crystal Headpieces and Hair Jewelry, Cake Toppers, and custom made jewelry. Each item made by Rayvenwood Manor is exquisite and unique.

What is your inspiration for your designs?

Every item from Rayvenwoodmanor has a little piece of my life incorporated into it, whether it be past, present, or future. My inspiration on a daily basis to create beautiful handmade items is my wonderful husband, who supports what ever I do, and my beautiful 19 month old son, who is inspiration incarnate for anything.

A couple of your favorite shop selections include...

Swarovski Crystal Bridal Bouquets which are custom made for each client... http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12996557

Anything with bunny rabbits! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38011747

Any other Web sites (blog, facebook page, twitter) that everyone can find you at?http://rayvenwoodmanor.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Orlando-FL/Rayvenwoodmanor/112053788807480

Please stay tuned for details on August's design challenge! we will be having these again on a regular basis, so get ready!!!!!

March's Design Challenge Entries! - MARCH ON!

2010-03-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

without further ado, here are the entries for this month's design challenge - MARCH ON! please vote for your favorite on the sidebar. keep watching this space for the winner and next month's challenge!!!!! and thanks to everyone who entered! YOU ROCK!

0namesleft3

createdbythe3maries

flowerchildcreations

glassredefined

glasylassy

julieellyndesigns

northstarornaments

prettyhairclippies

rayvenwoodmanor

tessacotton

thebackyardbear

yellowee

congrats to designedbyginalouise - our february design challenge winner! PLUS march's challenge details!

2010-03-10T18:58:00.000-08:00

Inspired clothing doesn't have to be new or designer to be awesome. Gina, at Designedbyginalouise.etsy.com has proven that. With the first of her Spring and Summer Island Hopping tunic listings, A Cloudy Day http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_1&listing_id=40556657 has swept the voting for the Tradeaholics February Design Challenge. Cute maribou removable trim along the top is remnicient of a cloudy day and Gina's trademark roses and leaves adorn the waistband on this cute tunic. And the entire dress is made from recycled and upcycled materials! Not only a design challenge entry but eco-friendly too.

We recently sat down to talk with Gina about her shop, and her design challenge win. Here's what she had to say:

* What made you decide to open shop on Etsy? "A friend of mine was nagging me for a few years to open up my own shop on Etsy. Then after I spent a night browsing on the sites for HOURS I decided to join the fun."

* What does your shop feature? "I create Eco-Friendly Altered Couture. Which means I take things you would normally throw out and turn them into upcycled clothing and accessories. All my designs are one-of-a-kind (OOAK), although I do take custom orders to make similar designs in other sizes and colors."* Where else do you sale? "I also design jewelry from bits and pieces of antique jewelry mixed with some new to create OOAK pieces at http://www.etsy.com/shop/GinaLouisesBling "

* What is your inspiration for your designs? "It is so hard to narrow down what inspires me to create my designs. First would be the colors; I love colors and the way they dance together on a canvas. I buy an outdated thrift shop blouse because I loved the colors and then I'd create something from it. It becomes anything from a scarf to a dining room chair cover. I've worked in film and TV most of my adult life, hence me being inspired by many Hollywood costume designers. I am also inspired by roses. The colors, the way they dance in the warm summer breeze, and the unique shape of each petal. I incorporate them in my designs a lot."

* A couple of your favorite shop selections include... "My favs are my pieced together feminine dresses that can be worn on a Caribbean Island or to a Wedding. I make them from pieces of damaged lace table clothes, old shabby curtains and even prom dress pieces. I have lots of those coming in the next couple of months as soon as my custom orders slow down."

* Any other Web sites (blog, facebook page, twitter) that everyone can find you at? "I was a big blogger, then I got too busy and stopped for a long time. I just opened a new blog specifically for Etsy fans that I have to get back into. It can be found at http://designedbyginalouise.blogspot.com/

Facebook for Etsy - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1080765004

* Anything special you would like to add? "Etsy has been a blessing in disguise. It has brought many new wonderful people, as well as boutiques into my life and it makes me wake up with a smile every morning and I look forward to my next creation. I love to open up my esty mail and read beautiful letters from people all over the world telling me that they love my designs. It's a really great feeling.Many thanks to all who voted for me and took the time to visit my shop. See ya at the next trade!"

and now, without further ado... this month's challenge, as chosen by ginalouise, is "MARCH ON". Challenge entries will be accepted through the 16th and voting will take place from 17-25 of March.

The rules are simple: Only one entry per shop per month please.The item must follow our monthly challenge theme, chosen by the past month's winner.

Challenge entry days will be opened through the 16th of each month. Voting will take place from 17-25 of each month. The winner will be announced and featured on the Tradeaholic blog each month. Your challenge entry does NOT have to be an item for trade in your store, simply something handmade you have listed in your store. There's no trading involved in this challenge (of course, unless you want to.)
This month's design challenge is "MARCH ON". Show us your theme inspired item for sale in your store. Entries will be accepted through March 16 and voting will take place March 17-25 on the Tradeaholics' blog (http://etsytradeaholics.blogspot.com/). Show off your items via Etsy with the team challenge tag "tradeonmarch10" without those pesky ". (If you don't tag your challenge item correctly, it will not be included in the voting. Tags will change monthly.)

so go and get creative! and congratulations again, ginalouise!

Last Minute Trade Frenzy!

2010-02-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

you asked, we're gonna deliver!

we're having an impromptu, quick and dirty, Trade Frenzy this SATURDAY, february 27th, from 8am to 8pm EST!!! 12 hours of trading goodness!!!!!

what is a Frenzy, you ask? a Trade Frenzy is just like a Trade and Stay event, but much shorter and we don't keep track of the trades. (i repeat - WE WILL NOT BE KEEPING TRACK! so don't get your knickers in a knot! lol)

check out this post if you need info on what a trade and stay is: http://tradeaholics.ning.com/forum/topics/trade-and-stay-tutorial

and here is the start list if you're interested (and you KNOW you are!)

bowutifulhairbow.etsy.com
bragginrightsbath.etsy.com or tcornell.etsy.com
camelotjewels.etsy.com or cullenjewels.etsy.com
clevelandairbrushart.etsy.com or theodapore.etsy.com
hillsidebathandbody.etsy.com or hillsidebakery.etsy.com
littlepinkorchard.etsy.com or minimodernist.etsy.com
Rayvenwoodmanor.etsy.com
splurge.etsy.com
themayflower.etsy.com
tstopher.etsy.com

ready, set, trade on!

February's Design Challenge Entries!!!

2010-02-16T07:20:00.000-08:00

pendant by glassredefined

without further ado, here are the entries to the february design challenge - "a cloudy sky"!!!! so please vote for your favorite - AND PLEASE ONLY VOTE ONCE! the winner will be announced on february 26th and featured here on the blog! SO GO VOTE!!!!

abespoketouch

angiehandmade

brightcircle

cappysueclay

chainflower

cleanb

countrywindows

createdbythe3maries

creationsbycori

designedbyginalouise

householdwords

jerseymaids

julieellyndesigns

kelsilove

mrssmeow

nikkisuniques

onestopclothingshop

paperleaves

rachelherzog

sharonkaydesigns

SWeetiepooh

tessacotton

theodapore

thegirlyplace

triplestitch

Design Challenge Feature & Next Month's Challenge!

2010-01-31T07:44:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO ONE STOP CLOTHING SHOP!!!

With her funky and unique stenciled t-shirt, Onestopclothingshop has won our first ever design challenge. This cute design, a hot pink tee stenciled with a guitar, www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38024408 pulled in 39 votes!

We spoke with Steph, owner of OneStopClothingShop.etsy.com, ABespokeTouch.etsy.com and MrsSMeow.etsy.com, about her win and her zest for Etsy."Thanks for voting for my guitar tee!" she said. Steph found her inspiration to sell on Etsy from her husband. "I was a buyer before I was a seller, and the husband told me I couldn't buy anymore until I moved the hundreds of boxes of my own handmade items. So now I'm on shop three!"

OneStopClothingShop.etsy.com features upcycled and recycled clothing, fabric items and stencilled clothing. Inspiration for her designs comes from an neverending flow of ideas in her head. "I needed another outlet for my handmade flowers and I kept finding these nice 'but missing something' clothes so I decided to start appliquéing."Some of her favorite items for sale include her Florence Book Safe http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38716932 ("I wanted to keep this.") and her Romantic Jacket http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=38537749 , which would have been hers if it fit.

You can find Steph on Etsy at any of her stores. She also twitters (mrsmeowmrsmeow) and her Facebook Page ishttp://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=247673416952&ref=mf#/pages/A-Bespoke-Touch/223485950483?ref=ts

FEBRUARY DESIGN CHALLENGE

As winner of the January Tradeaholic Design Challenge, Steph chose "A Cloudy Sky" as the February Design Challenge. So get to work and design some cloudy loveliness!

Challenge entries will be accepted through the 16th and voting will take place from 17-25 of each month. The rules are simple: Only one entry per shop per month please.The item must follow our monthly challenge theme, chosen by the past month's winner.Challenge entry days will be opened through the 16th of each month.Voting will take place from 17-25 of each month. The winner will be announced and featured on the Tradeaholic blog each month. Your challenge entry does NOT have to be an item for trade in your store, simply something handmade you have listed in your store. There's no trading involved in this challenge (of course, unless you want to.)

This month's design challenge is "A Cloudy Sky". Show us your cloudy sky themed item for sale in your store. Entries will be accepted through Feb. 16 and voting will take place Feb. 17-25 on the Tradeaholics' blog (http://etsytradeaholics.blogspot.com/). Show off your items via Etsy with the team challenge tag "tradeonfeb10" without those pesky ". (If you don't tag your challenge item correctly, it will not be included in the voting. Tags will change monthly.)

So, to recap:

Challenge theme: A Cloudy SkyChallenge

tag: tradeonfeb10

Get to showing us those Cloudy Sky items team! And if you have any questions, please convo muffintopdesigns, raevyn77 or thegirlyplace via etsy!

January TnS Start List!

2010-01-21T03:17:00.001-08:00

without further ado... our start list for tomorrow's TnS!

Amysonpie.etsy.com
Angiehandmade.etsy.com or kellyfun.etsy.com
Boogerandtash.etsy.com
Karolstreasures.etsy.com or karolsvintageart.etsy.com or karolsvintageattic.etsy.com
Maplestreetcreations.etsy.com
Prettyhairclippies.etsy.com
Teaman.etsy.com
The3maries.etsy.com or createdbythe3maries.etsy.com
Theardencandleco.etsy.com
Uneek4U.etsy.com

thanks to everyone who threw their hat in the ring! see you all in the morning!

xoxoxo muffin and raevyn

ROCK ON!!!!!!!!!! January Design Challenge!!!

2010-01-16T08:27:00.000-08:00

we threw down the gauntlet, and you created! here are the 33 - yes, 33! - entries to the first tradeaholics' design challenge! click here to see the entries!

please vote on the poll on the sidebar - one vote per person! we'll announce the winner on the 26th!

(i know that this might not be as streamlined as we could make it, but it's our first huge design challenge... we'll work out the kinks as we go! if you have any suggestions, please let me know via etsy convo!)

$5... $10... wanna have a sale?

2010-01-12T07:03:00.000-08:00

we heard you guys want to have a team-wide sale! so do you?

check out the poll on the side - it's a two-part one. one for the type of sale, one for the date.

so go and vote and then watch your email and ning for the details!!!!

who doesn't love a sale?????? whoot whoot!

xoxo muffin & raevyn

p.s. don't forget about the TnS coming up!!!!

january's design challenge!!! ROCK ON!!!

2010-01-04T12:47:00.000-08:00

you asked, we delivered!

Welcome to our first ever monthly design challenge. As the Tradeaholics team evolves and more people join, we have decided one great way to get to know one another – and the fantastic things we make - is through a monthly design challenge.

The rules are simple.
Only one entry per shop per month please.
The item must follow our monthly challenge theme, chosen by the past month's winner.
Challenge entry days will be opened through the 16th of each month.
Voting will take place from 17-25 of each month and the winner will be announced on the Tradeaholics blog with a shop feature on the 27th of each month.
Your challenge entry does NOT have to be an item for trade in your store, simply something handmade you have listed in your store. There's no trading involved in this challenge (of course, unless you want to.)
This month's design challenge is "Rock on!" Show us your Rock N' Roll themed item for sale in your store. Entries will be accepted through Jan. 16 and voting will take place Jan. 17-25 on the Tradeaholics' blog (http://etsytradeaholics.blogspot.com/). Show off your items via Etsy with the team challenge tag "tradeonjan10" without those pesky ". (If you don't tag your challenge item correctly, it will not be included in the voting. Tags will change monthly.)

So, to recap:

Challenge theme: Rock on
Challenge tag: tradeonjan10

Get to showing us those awesome Rock N' Roll items team! And if you have any questions, please convo muffintopdesigns, raevyn77 or thegirlyplace via etsy!

readingbunky's holiday poem!!!!!!!!

2009-12-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through etsy land

All sellers were so tired that they hardly could stand.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

Hoping that St Nicholas (or the sales fairy) soon would be there.

The Tradeaholics were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of more trades danced in their heads.

And Admin in their cowls, and the rest in their caps,

Figured no more Christmas sales so time for some naps.

When from the chat rooms there arose such a clatter,

I quickly logged in to see what was the matter.

Away to the chat room I flew like a flash,

But was met with the hamster I wanted to bash.

So off to the forums I decided to go,

Everyone there would be in the know.

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But everyone on etsy sharing Christmas cheer.

Hearts were given, so many and quick,

I knew etsians were filled with the spirit of St Nick.

More rapid than eagles all shops joined in,

And not to join in would have been a great sin!

There’s jewelry! And purses! And holiday fluff!

There’s pottery! And vintage! And all sorts of paper stuff!

There’s clothing and baked goods! And art for your wall!

Now twitter it! Blog it! Facebook it all!

As buyers and sellers came together with joy,

The threads were topics all could enjoy.

With no threads to be closed and no calling out

The etsy community knew what Christmas was all about.

All showcases were available to celebrate the season,

Trust me on this – I’m really not teasin’.

In alchemy all bids were accepted – every one!

And the CPSIA rules had to be followed by none.

The front page, it made everyone happy,

With a variety of items that were cool, not sappy.

The Featured Seller was all of us – but how?

That’s just the magic of Christmas I’m telling you now.

The avatars, how they twinkled! The banners how merry!

Everything was so festive and cute like a kawaii cherry!

Treasury and Treasury West were open to all,

Everyone on etsy was having a ball!

Even Paypal charged no fees on this festive night,

And regretsy was no where, no where in sight.

The owls from the front page hooted with glee

And the gift guides were filled with all things shiny!

I hope you have enjoyed my Christmas gift to all of you,

As I have met so many wonderful people I never before knew.

And I would like to exclaim, with all of my might,

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

by Kathy Jo Bohlke aka readingbunky

happy holidays, all!!!!!! xoxoxo

Trade and Stay Hangover!!

2009-12-08T10:32:00.001-08:00

we've been cleaning up in the aftermath of the TnS event - and boy, it was FABULOUS! with 202 shops (i think) on the list and over 2000 trades when the dust cleared, i think we certainly had ourselves one heck of a holiday party!!!! (and will be avoiding our etsy bills when they arrive!)

without further ado, here are our trade winners!

the NEW trade ho is the terrific sassygrace! she will take home our wonderful first place prize package and the Trade Ho certificate!!!

designsbyginalouise and nitelily3 were our runners-up this time around and will be awarded the second & third place prizes respectively! so, winners, please contact the donor shops for your prizes!!!!!

thanks to everyone who participated - and especially to the listmaster crew! we will be having the next event once all the trades from this one have been received - so most likely in the new year!!!! you guys rock!!!!

p.s. i found the pool boy wandering around tripping on something funny. someone come get him and put him to bed, please!

December's Trade and Stay Event DETAILS!

2009-12-05T02:01:00.000-08:00

GOOD MORNING ALL!

here is the link to the TNS thread: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6368955

and...

THIS MONTH'S PRIZES (not that you guys need any incentive to trade!)

First Place – Official Trade Princess/Ho Certificate from justgivemepeace http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31916521
$10 Gift Certificate from Raevyn77 (redeemable in any of her shops)
$10 Gift Certificate from muffintopdesigns
Choice of Photo from charmingmittens (http://www.constructivetendencies.com/main.php)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25898680 from proteales

Second Place
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25699228 from somethingolde
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35763406 from chrystalyn
$10 gift certificate from muffintopdesigns

Third Place
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35974499 - from Beadacious1221
a $10 Gift Certificate from designedbyginalouise
20 pack of assorted 2 x 2" cards from peculiarparchment

you ready? TRADE ON!

December's Trade and Stay Event!

2009-12-03T17:14:00.000-08:00

hello traders!!! we're gearing up and getting ready for this weekend's TnS event! the 10 starter shops have been chosen via random.org and the list is here! just some reminders:

- the event starts early on saturday (approximately 5am EST - i'm not sure what time that is overseas) and goes till 11:59pm EST monday. we will send everyone the link to the thread and post it on the blog as well.
- please remember your manners and respond to all convos – even if your answer is no!
- use the tag "team trade on" to identify your tradeable items, or put a trade section in your shop
- remember to keep your trades equal – you should be trading for the amount of the item PLUS shipping – but please don’t inflate your shipping costs!
- Once your trade is complete, please post a link to the transaction so we can all see what you got! It makes it easier for us to count trades this way – if you just state that you are trading with someone, it makes it difficult to count. (plus we only count “official” trades!)
- Please do not change your prices to 0.20 cents. This is fee avoidance and can get our team shut down.
- Teach newbies to trade and be gentle!!!
- Treat trades like sales – ship promptly and leave appropriate feedback! If you are happy, let future buyers and traders know with glowing feedback! If, after several attempts to make the trade right, you are unhappy (you didn't get your item, you got a different item and the seller doesn't want to ship the item you ordered, etc), leave feedback telling that. Just because it is a trade, it is no reason that it should be treated any differently than a sell. You are getting an item for your time and merchandise, sometimes more valuable than money!!! If negative feedback is called for, leave negative feedback.
- The list will be updated by our official listmasters, so please be patient – just trade and leave the work to us!! This way, the list stays accurate!
- Please trade in moderation – don’t trade more than you can handle! (it is addicting, but after the dust settles, you’ll be packing for days!!!)

without further ado, here is the list!

www.Beijaflores.etsy.com
www.bittersweetpunkin.etsy.com
www.ericalev.etsy.com
www.Handymaiden.etsy.com
www.JulieEllynDesigns.etsy.com and www.JEDbridal.etsy.com
www.Orionbotanicals.etsy.com
www.Sheilaferlet.etsy.com
www.splurge.etsy.com
www.stephscraftycreation.etsy.com www.whimsicalTran4mation.etsy.com and www.shellrificheirlooms.etsy.com

we also have prizes for the biggest traders - thanks to the shops that have generously donated items! the prizes will be posted ASAP!

tradeaholics' $10 and under sale!!!!

2009-11-18T08:36:00.000-08:00

the team is hosting a fantastic, pre-Black Friday $10 and under sale! starting this friday, all of these shops will have items on sale for $10 and under! beat the holiday rush and snap up some great deals! use the tag "TRADE10" to search for sale items!

here are the participating shops:

0namesleft.etsy.com - handmade pride items, purses, totes, books, journals, and more
2Sleepyheads.etsy.com - Bags of the month, totes, and other sewn goodies
alicesangeljewelry.etsy.com - handmade necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets
amanda23.etsy.com - handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gemstone jewelry
anchorhold.etsy.com -- Crochet goods and stickers
arenacreative.etsy.com - artistic and jeweled creativity
artrageousclay.etsy.com - Unique Ceramic Jewelry Pieces
BeesCreations.etsy.com - Polymer clay jewellery, lip balm and more
boogerandtash.etsy.com - fun accessories and necessities for kids!
cafesugirons.etsy.com - sachets, christmas ornaments, coasters, wine bags and such
candlesbymarla.etsy.com – soy candlescappysueclay.etsy.com - clay pendants, charms, monsters, fairy homes, mini sculptures and more
chendric.etsy.com - handcrafted fine silver and gemstone jewelry
cherylspurplecow.etsy.com - Beaded, Awareness, and Metal-Free Jewelry, reflections, Vintage, other
chrystalyn.etsy.com - semiprecious jewelry & gemstone holiday fare (wine charms, ornaments)CleanAsAWhistle.etsy.com - Handmade household cleaners, wool dryer balls, and cleaning zine
craftydill.etsy.com - Vintage: pottery, kitchen, dishes, figurines, linens, paper, decor and more
divinecanine.etsy.com pet treats and more for your fur babies!
dutchtouchbeads.etsy.com Artfully Handmade Jewelry
exClamations.etsy.com - Handmade Jewelry
firstfruitsllc.etsy.com - homemade goodies, jams, candies, bath and body
FirstLightGlass.etsy.com - Fused glass jewelry, art and home décor
Funnykindagirl.etsy.com - Fun and Unique Ribbon Characters, Hair Bows, Pins, Ribbon Bookmarks, Headbands, and Ornaments.
GardenGwyn.Etsy.com - Quirky, Elegant, Eclectic & Charm, jewelry for every occasion and whim
GemsandDolls.Etsy.com Soy Candles, Soap, and Gems for your holidays
GirlettesMV.etsy.com - Felt Barrettes, Crowns, Pony tails, Headbands, Holders
handymaiden.etsy.com - hand painted polymer and wood pendants
harvestmoonbyhand.etsy.com - natural toys; window stars; art kits and supplies; patterns; greeting cards; and homeschool resources.
hildeguardslair.etsy.com sale items in trade 10 section of shop, earrings, keychains, cell phone charms
hillsidebakery.etsy.com - fudge, fudge, and new candy listings for the holidays
hillsidebathandbody.etsy.com - goats milk soap and sewn holiday gifts
jerseymaids.etsy.com - polaroid artwork, jewelry, gifts, and more!
jewelzbyjen.etsy.com Handmade jewelry and bookmarks
julibeekitsch.etsy.com - Handmade Jewelry, Accessories, & Gifts
KarolsTreasures.etsy.com - Yarn, Beads and Fabric for your next crafting project
KnotOrdinary.etsy.com - Darling friendship bracelets for all ages!
laurali.etsy.com - Zen/Visionary and Traditional Art (Paintings, Prints, ACEOs, Pendants
LisbonSky.etsy.com - Specializing in affordable eclectic and gorgeous jewelry & accessories.
LittleAlleyCatDesign - Shop Banners, Business Cards, Graphic Design
louisiana1966.etsy.com-upcycled bags,journals,pencil cups,pillows,cup cozies,etc.-everything ecofriendly
Love2Embellish.Etsy.com - Fun paper crafts including: scrapbooks, cards, tags, clipboards and altered journals
ltuarchangel.etsy.com - plantable cards and beaded creations
lucindaramsay.etsy.com - Fun, chic, and customisable accessories.
luckedog.etsy.com - vintage and collectiblesLDCraftSupplies.etsy.com - craft supplies for anything and everythingLDGeneralStore.etsy.com - handmade goodies
MakingsByMary.etsy.com - Bags of all sorts plus crocheted scarves, hats and cloths
mamajboutique.etsy.com - handbags, jewelry, home décor
maplestreetcreations.etsy.com Fun and creative soaps, lotions, candles and more for the entire family and all friends.
marsbar35.etsy.com - (jewellry) vintagemylove.etsy.com -(clothes and jewellry)
misspennyspapershop.etsy.com- Affordable Paper Goodness, Note Pads, Seals, Cards, Planners
mjowest.etsy.com- Patterns, Vintage, Garden art- Country Goods!
mrssmeow.etsy.com - jewellery, lingerie, clothing and organza clippies
muffintopdesigns.etsy.com - sterling silver, copper and brass stacking rings & semiprecious jewelry
nativebeads.etsy.com - beads, earrings, chokers, jewelry, gourd art and natural soaps
nitelily3.etsy.com - Bags, clothing and other sewn accessories
nomsa.etsy.com - fun and chic hair accessories and jewelry
NotYourMomsVinyl.etsy.com - Pop Culture Tees and Vinyl wall decals.
OrionBotanicals.etsy.com - soy candles, reed diffusers, sachets & home fragrances
parallel.etsy.com - gemstone & glass bead jewelry supplies
pawsintheair.etsy.com - Crocheted items, for fun and warmth, table and body.
pennyspug.etsy.com- Fun Beaded Jewelry
PoignantProjections.etsy.com - Trinket Tins and other good stuff!
prariewindstitchery.etsy.com - Crochet accessories, housewares and much more!
purplefuzzyfeet.etsy.com - Fun notecards, dog toys, and holiday gifts all under $10
raevyn77.etsy.com - Handmade jewelrysimplyraevyn.etsy.com - Handmade seed bead jewelrypeculiarparchment.etsy.com - Handmade cards and tags
Randumosity.Etsy.com - Fun & Unique Cloth Womens Products, Bags & Accessories
ravenbrook.etsy.com - jewelry, tote bags and baby gifts
readingbunky.etsy.com - stocking stuffers and more!
redrobinpretties.etsy.com - charms and findingsmagymai711.etsy.com - vintage image cds and jewelry
RockyMtBeader.etsy.com - Jewelry, Beaded Ornaments, Ceramic Coasters, Loose Beads and More
Shellrifficheirlooms.etsy.com- decorated eggs,gourds,seashell and more!
ShoreDebris.etsy.com - Beach-themed jewelry and home décor
somethingolde.etsy.com - vintage jewelry, household and more
sparklegarden.etsy.com - handcrafted sterling and gemstone and personalized jewelrytwigandfeather.etsy.com - handmade housewares
spinalfusion.etsy.com ~ eclectic array of handmade goods, jewelry and accessories
splurge.etsy.com - simple and modern jewelry
stephaniesjewelrybox.etsy.com - handmade jewelry for all styles of people from vintage to funky
SugarChills.etsy.com - natural body care
Sugirons.etsy.com - cloth menstrual pads, nursing pads, baby quilts, diaper bags and more!
sunflowertouch.etsy.com..accessory heaven.
sunshinespeckles.etsy.com - handmade cards and gift tags featuring hand carved stamp designs
suppliez.etsy.com - scrapbook, jewelrymaking and crafting supplies
SuzanneDesigns.etsy.com - Sassy purses, tees, pet collars and accessories crafted from vintage neckties!
TattooAnnie.etsy.com - vintage inspired jewelry, cozy knits, geekery and kawaii goods
terrabellaaccents.etsy.com - jewelry, accesories, pine neddle baskets, keepsake boxes
The3Maries.etsy.com - vintage books, collectibles, pottery, and clothing,CreatedByThe3Maries.etsy.com - original art, crafts, sewn items, fabric, and suppliesCharmingMittens.etsy.com - Photographic Tendencies and Fine Prints
thegirlyplace.etsy.com - Girly accessories, tutus and more!ruascrapper.etsy.com - Paper goodness.tailsnsnails.etsy.com - The boy shop
ThePaperElement.etsy.com Paper art, origami, and other delights
thisisit.etsy.com - ecofriendly journals, notepads, jewelry, and cardsqualitycraftsupplies.etsy.com - recycled sterling silver wire and handmade paper
thoughtfulexpression.etsy.com - jewelry, photography, destash and more!
tootsweethandbags.etsy.com - Fab Handbags and Fun Accessories
TracyDesigns.etsy.com - wristlet keychains, quilted bags, hot pads, table runners, coasters, awareness items and more
Uneek4U.etsy.com - jewelry, children's items, paper products
victoriantimes.etsy.com - vintage, destash, and recreated items. (Regency & Civil War era items)
VintageLoveHeart.etsy.com..treasures for fashion followers and collectors
vintagemylove.etsy.com -(clothes and jewellry)
WhimsicalTransformation.etsy.com-making treasures from trash!
YourTime.etsy.com - Wire Wrapped Jewelry, Vintage and Supplies
YourTimeBodyTreats.etsy.com - Bath and Body Products

Sunday's FRENZY Start List!

2009-10-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

thanks to everyone who convoed me - this team ROCKS!

without further ado... here is your start list! (we are 11 shops again because we had a tie)

http://brightcircle.etsy.com
http://chrystalyn.etsy.com or http://parallel.etsy.com
http://colorfulsheep.etsy.com
http://cozink.etsy.com
http://freelion.etsy.com
http://hillsidebakery.etsy.com
http://jerseymaids.etsy.com
http://leeya.etsy.com
http://nitelily3.etsy.com
http://rhiannon228.etsy.com
http://sparklegarden.etsy.com

no fair negotiating trades before we start, lol! if you have questions about how a Frenzy works, check out the rules of the Trade and Stay events on ning or shoot either one of us a convo!

xoxox muffin & raevyn

FRENZY details!

2009-10-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

hi all!
well, it's official!
we're having ourselves a Trading FRENZY!!!!

what is a Frenzy, you ask? it's the same as a trade and stay, except it's only limited to a short, limited time!!!! hence... the trading will be even faster and more frenzied!

here are the details:

where: in the Promotions forum - raevyn will start the thread and send the location to everyone via ning.when: sunday, october 25th, 2009

time: 12 noon to midnight EST

how can you get on the start list? CONVO - and only convo - muffintopdesigns with "frenzy" in the subject line. indicate your shop(s) url and what you sell. (i.e. http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com - jewelry ) that way it will be easier to keep us organized! i'll be taking the first TEN shops only!!!!

are you ready? you only have 2 1/2 days to stock up your shop!!!! :) if you have any questions, let me or raevyn77 know!!! yay for the FRENZY!!!!

xo muffin

Anyone Up for a FRENZY?

2009-10-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

yeah, we're addicted. we were chatting on the forum thread today and the idea of a trade frenzy before the next TnS came up.

so, here we are.

go vote on the sidebar for the day that works best for you - i think we might only go 12 hours this time... just to make it a little more interesting!!!!!!!

whoot whoot!!!!!!! GO VOTE!

xoxox muffin & raevyn

Bye Bye Google Emails!

2009-10-18T17:40:00.001-07:00

how far we've come since our early days as newbie tradeaholics! we are now fabulously organized, thanks to raevyn, over on our ning site! plus, there are almost 100 people who haven't confirmed their google membership, so it's pretty obvious that ning is the way to go!

this means that i'll be closing down our google group, where our mailing list was. any group messages will now be sent through ning, so make sure that your email address is accurate over there. i've sent notifications via ning and google, so hopefully everyone will be informed. i apologize in advance to anyone who uses the google emails to keep in touch, but this is going to be way easier for raevyn and myself.

anyhoo... thanks again for putting up with us while we try to make things easier and more streamlined for everyone! :)

And Our Winners Are....

2009-10-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

It's totally awesome how wicked our Trade and Stay event was!!!!! amazing shops, fantastic trades, wonderful chats... could it get any better????

but - without further ado... here are our winners!

DIVINE CANINE (with 57 trades) is the newly crowned Trade-Ho! she wins:

The official certificate from justgivemepeace - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31916521
A Trade-Ho bracelet from ReadingBunky! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5224298
A $10.00 gift certificate to KarolsTreasures http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=8079015
A $10.00 gift certificate to NativeBeads http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6133611
A Wand for the Queen Ho-Ho courtesy of TheGirlyPlace http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7474312
And gets to be featured on the Tradeaholics Official Blog!
******************************************************************************
we had a tie for second place - with 45 trades each! so.... our gals are...

the fabulous BOOBOOMONSTERS!
she will receive a $20.00 gift Certificate from Simply Raevyn http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5710650 Which can be used at any of her three shops!
A $10.00 gift Certificate from Kim Creative http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7396557
And a Hand crocheted Beanie with a clip from PiggytailsBoutique http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6358703
******************************************************************************
The talented SPARTASOAP will receive, Ta!Dah!
A $20.00 Gift Certificate from MuffinTopDesigns!http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5231963
a $10.00 gift Certificate from Simply Raevyn http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5710650 Which can be used at any of her three shops!
A Pocket mirror, your choice from JustGiveMePeace http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31278712
And a hair clippie from PiggytailsBoutique http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6358703

congrats, ladies!!!! contact the sellers for your prizes!!!!! (and before anyone says anything, raevyn doesn't qualify because she runs the team, LOL!!!)

October's Trade and Stay Thread!

2009-10-03T00:45:00.000-07:00

you guys ready? http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6304741

(sorry it's so early but i was up and thought i'd make good use of being awake LOL!)

October's Trade and Stay Start List!

2009-09-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

you guys are very very fast. lol! the minute i sent out the email asking for starter shops, i had my 10!
so.... without further ado, here they are:

2sleepyheads.etsy.com
CozInk.etsy.com
divinecanine.etsy.com
magymai711.etsy.com
Nativebeads.etsy.com
OopsIKnitItAgain.etsy.com
sparklegarden.etsy.com
SpartaSoap.etsy.com
thisisit.etsy.com
Wheezies.etsy.com

and, this time around, we have PRIZES!!!! (as if you guys need any incentive to trade!)

The newly crowned Trade-Ho takes home the Official Title http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31916521

A Trade-Ho bracelet from ReadingBunky! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5224298

A $10.00 gift certificate to Divine Creations for your four legged Love

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5854013

A $10.00 gift certificate to KarolsTreasures http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=8079015

A $10.00 gift certificate to NativeBeads http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6133611

A Wand for the Queen Ho-Ho courtesy of TheGirlyPlace http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7474312

And gets to be featured on the Tradeaholics Official Blog!

******************************************************************************

1st runner up (2nd prize) will receive a $20.00 gift Certificate from Simply Raevyn http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5710650 Which can be used at any of her three shops!A $10.00 gift Certificate from Kim Creative http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7396557

And a Hand crocheted Beanie with a clip from PiggytailsBoutique http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6358703

******************************************************************************

And 2nd runner up (3rd prize) will receive, Ta!Dah!

A $10.00 Gift Certificate from MuffinTopDesigns!http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5231963

A Pocket mirror, your choice from JustGiveMePeace http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31278712

And a hair clippie from PiggytailsBoutique http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6358703

thanks to EVERYONE who convoed me - it is so fantastic to see such eager traders! so get ready for Saturday!!! i will post the link to the thread here, on the chat thread, on ning and via the email list.

xoxox muffin and raevyn

BLOG BUTTONS!!!!

2009-09-15T07:20:00.001-07:00

the wonderful madebymidnight created all of these buttons for us to use as promo material on our blogs! steal 'em, snatch 'em, put 'em EVERYWHERE!!!!!!! thank you, midnight!!!!!

$5 Tradeaholics Team Event!

2009-09-08T14:40:00.000-07:00

the lovely booboomonsters has agreed to spearhead our very first TradeTeam $5 sale! in a nutshell, the TradeTeam $5 Sales event is a super easy sale. All participating shops have to do is have $5 items in their shop on the day of the sale... each shop can have as many $5 items as they wish. The $5 event highlights items in your shop that are $5.00, whether that is their regular price or a sale price.

More details to follow... including how to sign up for this event! what we need right now is to set a date - so go to the sidebar and VOTE!

remember, this is a SALE, not a trading event, LOL!!! we gotta pay our trading fees!

xoxoxo muffin, raevyn77 and booboomonsters

P.S. we have a sign up link now - http://tradeaholics.ning.com/forum/topics/tradeaholics-team-5-sale-sign so go here if you want to participate!

TRADING 101

2009-09-07T10:34:00.000-07:00

happy fall, everyone!!!! the summer was fantastic for trading and the team has tons of new members! in honour of this, we're posting "Trading 101" - both as an intro to our newbies and a refresher for the rest of us!!!

Trading is fun and wonderful and hopefully this helps people negotiate the wild world of trade-a-holism safely!!!! You'll get addicted, just like we did!

Rule 1 - Approach your prospective tradee (the person you want to trade with) via convo. Tell them that you like their stuff (obviously you do, LOL) and ask if they are willing to trade. It helps if you already have an item from their shop in mind. Be clear as well about what in your shop you are willing to trade for. You DON'T have to open your whole shop to trades!

Rule 2 - Wait for a response - and don't get your knickers in a knot because they say no. I've gone on a trading break when I get a little "traded out" - and that's okay. If you are the tradee, be nice about turning someone down. It's kinda like dating - let them down easy! :)

Rule 3 - If you both agree to trade, make sure that the trade is fair, and don't forget to include your shipping costs! So, for example, I choose $4.95 in fudge from Hillside Bakery, and the shipping on the fudge is $5.00, then Hillside gets to choose $9.95 worth of items from my shop, including shipping. I usually make sure that if there is a difference of $2 or more, I pay the difference via paypal. Fairness rules!!!!

Rule 4 - "Purchase" the items from each other's shops - BUT DON'T PAY or GO TO THE PAYPAL WEBSITE. Your goods are your currency!

Rule 5 - Ship at the same time – or as soon as possible if its a custom order!

Rule 6 - When you get your item, leave feedback!

And voila! Both parties gets something fabulous, both parties get a "sale", and both parties build up their positive feedback! Everyone wins!

What NOT To Do:
- Don’t forget your manners. Please respond to all trade requests, even if it’s a “no”.
- Don’t forget to ship your trade item. This is not donating. It’s trading.
- Don’t forget to leave appropriate feedback. If you are happy with a trade, let them know! Subsequently… if you are NOT happy, let the seller know before leaving feedback and try to work things out. If you are still unhappy – or if you never receive your item – we suggest that you leave feedback stating this. Although no money is exchanged, you’re trading goods, which is just as valuable. Treat it just like a sale.
- Don’t change your prices to 0.20. This is called fee avoidance. If etsy catches wind of fee avoidance, the whole team is in jeopardy of being shut down. We are lucky to have a venue like etsy. Don’t bite the hand that feeds us!
- Don’t avoid feedback by cancelling a sale. If you aren’t going to trade in good faith, don’t trade.

The bottom line - Any trader who doesn’t trade in good faith will be banned from the team. Trading is based on trust and we will defend that trust. be good to each other!

we hope these made sense and helps make your trade experience easier! It's so great to be able to own a great piece of handmade artistry by trading one of your own!!!!!!!!!!

Addicted yet? we are!!!!!!! if there are ANY questions, please let us know!

xoxoox muffin & raevyn

Trade FRENZY!

2009-08-20T03:39:00.000-07:00

here's the link, everyone!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6255579

... and the FRENZY start list is...

2009-08-12T16:56:00.000-07:00

i know you've been waiting for this!!! browse and drool over these shops... but no arranging "list" trades ahead of time, LOL! (but i can't stop you from trading, now can i?)

http://angiehandmade.etsy.com/ textile jewelry, felted pouches, and more or http://kellyfun.etsy.com/ - sachets, felted animals, and coasters
http://beescreations.etsy.com/ - Polymer clay jewellery, bath and body and artwork
http://booboomonsters.etsy.com/ - Fun pain Relief! Boo Boo Bags, Baby Quilts, and accessories
http://GardenGwyn.Etsy.com - Cute and Elegant Jewelry & Accessories and maybe a few other surprises!
http://gloriasjewelrybox.etsy.com/ - Jewelry and bead destash
http://mrssmeow.etsy.com - Mix of jewellery, lingerie, ladies clothing or http://abespoketouch.etsy.com - Wedding items and destash
http://nomsa.etsy.com/ - jewelry and hair accessories
http://raevyn77.etsy.com/ - earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches or http://simplyraevyn.etsy.com - beautiful brick stitched jewelry or http://peculiarparchment.etsy.com/ - mini cards and stationary
http://thegirlyplace.etsy.com/ - The place online for all your girly accessories
http://uniquelyallies.etsy.com/ - newsboy caps w/beaded blingstings, jewerly, accessories, etc.

Trade FRENZY!!!!!

2009-08-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

i admit it. you admit it. but thegirlyplace admitted it in public, out on the chat thread, in the forums, of all places!!!! we all can't get enough of trading! so, as thegirlyplace suggested, we're going to have a Trade Frenzy - a one day, trading extravaganza! what is a Frenzy, you ask? it's the same as a trade and stay, except it's only limited to a short, limited time!!!! hence... the trading will be even faster and more frenzied!

here are the details:

where: in the Promotions forum
when: thursday, august 20th, 2009
time: 6 am to midnight EST

how can you get on the start list?

CONVO - and only convo - muffintopdesigns with "frenzy" in the subject line. indicate your shop(s) url and what you sell. (i.e. http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com - jewelry ) that way it will be easier to keep us organized! i'll be taking the first TEN shops only!!!!

are you ready? you only have 10 days to stock up your shop!!!! :) if you have any questions, let me or raevyn77 know!!!

xo muffin & raeyvn77

http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com
http://raevyn77.etsy.com

Save the Date(s)...

2009-07-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

everyone's having Trade and Stay hangovers. and they don't seem to be going away. so raevyn and i have decided to put you all out of your misery and now want you all to grab your calendars and pencil in the next two TnS dates!!!! because they will be relatively close together, they will both be three day events and have the same format as all the other TnS's!

got your pens ready? :)

the first one will start Saturday, October 3rd and run till Monday, October 5th - to stave off all those trade jitters and get you back in trading form!
the second one will start Saturday, December 5th and run till Monday, December 7th - just in time to get those last minute holiday gifts!

so start getting your shops - and your wish lists! - ready! any questions? let me or raevyn77 know, or better yet, post on our chat thread here: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6226825

i will also be posting a refresher "Trading 101" both here and on the ning site - just so we all stay current - and our newbies don't feel so lost!!!!

xoxoxoox muffin & raevyn77

And the Trade Princess/Ho Is...

2009-07-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

thanks to EVERYONE for making the Midsummer's Trade and Stay such a rousing success! i think that this was the largest - and fastest - Trade and Stay in our little history!!! i know that for the next couple of weeks, it's going to be like Christmas in our mailboxes, LOL!

and now... our new official Trade Princess/HO is... the wonderful SPARTASOAPS (http://spartasoap.etsy.com/ ) with 40 (i suspect it was more!) trades! rumour has it that she's been saving up for this event and boy, did she clean up! (pun intended!) yay, sparta! we love you and your soaps!

i also want to give a special shout out to our fabulous listmasters - Raevyn77, jerseymaids, bagsbytracy, nativebeads, flamingolady, jetflair and everyone else who bumped the list! we would have been lost without you! it was fast and furious and i can't believe we were able to keep track as much as we did!!!

so...

when should our next one be? LOL! watch for the poll in a month or so... we'll also be having a trade game soon in the forums - i'll make sure to email everyone to let them know when it will be.

don't forget to sign up on the ning site (http://tradeaholics.ning.com/ ) and confirm your membership on Google so that you can stay up to date! i will be sending out a confirmation email to all of our new members in the next couple of days, so watch your inbox/spam folder!

if you have any questions, just let me or raevyn77 know - or better yet, join us on our chat thread here: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6226825

ready, set, trade on!!!! and thank you again for making the TnS so amazing!!!

xoxox muffin

and the Start List Gang are...

2009-07-18T10:33:00.000-07:00

i know you've all be waiting... here is the start list!

Spartasoap.etsy.com
OopsIKnitItAgain.etsy.com
Laurali.etsy.com
Nomsa.etsy.com
Sparklegarden.etsy.com and twigandfeather.etsy.com
Beckynot.etsy.com
Pennyspug.etsy.com
Tartanbean.etsy.com
Jerseymaids.etsy.com
GardenGwyn.etsy.com
Seaphemera.etsy.com
UniquelyAllies.etsy.com

and don't forget to confirm your membership/email address!

yay for tomorrow!!!

xooxox

Will you Trade and Stay With Me? :)

2009-07-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

yay! it looks like our trade and stay will commence on July 19th! i KNEW you guys couldn't wait till later in the summer! so watch your email for the call for "start listers"!!

speaking of emails, thank you to everyone who followed us over to the ning site (and to those who sadly revoked their membership too). it totally has helped Raevyn77 and i streamline and clean up all of the lists. if you signed up on the ning site, you should have received a Yahoo Groups email from me asking you to confirm your membership. this way, we can make sure that you really want to be part of the team! so now, officially, our team membership stands at about 75 - how WICKED is that? YAY for trading!

and while we're on the topic of trading, on the chat thread we've been bouncing around the idea of having a trade game one night soon. so stay tuned!

Cleaning House!

2009-06-17T12:52:00.001-07:00

as most of you know by now, we're cleaning house! with my new co-leader, raevyn77, we're slowly but surely getting ALL of the lists up to date, and hopefully we'll be able to keep them that way! in the meantime, raevyn77 has started a NING group for us - it will help us keep membership much more current! so if you haven't yet, head on over there and sign up! we're hoping everyone will be able to do it by July 1st, and then our lists will be complete! if we don't hear from you, we'll assume that you're not able to be an active team member anymore - which is totally okay!

the ning site is here: http://tradeaholics.ning.com/

we'll also be having another TnS soon... so watch this space for the poll as to which dates work best for everyone!

any questions? let myself or raevyn77 know! and WELCOME, raevyn! we're so glad to have you on board!

xoxoox muffin

http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com/
http://raevyn77.etsy.com/

Gotta Love Spring Trade and Stay Event!

2009-05-23T02:11:00.000-07:00

and we're off again! the May Trade and Stay Event is located here:
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6161127

come and join us!!!! YAY!!!!!!

xoxox muffin

Anyone Up for a May Trade and Stay?

2009-05-14T04:11:00.000-07:00

you know what i'm talkin' about!

if you are, vote on the sidebar as to the best time for you, and i'll take the first 10 shops that CONVO me (yes, convo me only - i have baby brain still and can only concentrate on one thing at a time, LOL) to be our start list!

YAY!!!!!

xoxoxo muffin

And... We're OFF!!!!!!

2009-04-13T01:45:00.000-07:00

ladies and gents... here is the location of the April Trade and Stay Thread!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6115658

don't forget to read the "rules" on trading and Trade and Stays in the post below!

Re: MEMBERSHIP - if you'd like to become a member, you have to PROMISE to be active in our events and our chat thread! :) check out the finer details on the post below as well. if you think you can do be a tradeaholic in good standing, shoot me your email address via ETSY convo and i'll put you on the list!

ready, set, TRADE ON!!!!!

xoxox muffin

And Our Starter List Shops Are...

2009-04-10T00:23:00.000-07:00

alright guys and gals! here is the starter list for Monday's Trade and Stay Event! remember, you can only LOOK... no negotiations until we start on Monday!!!!!!

http://equivoque.etsy.com/
http://ribbonwonders.etsy.com/
http://modernlunacy.etsy.com/ or http://famoushair.etsy.com/
http://butterflydesign1.etsy.com/ or http://earringparadise.etsy.com/
http://sparklegarden.etsy.com/
http://raevyn77.etsy.com/ or http://simplyraevyn.etsy.com/ or http://peculiarparchment.etsy.com/
http://bloomingbeads.etsy.com/
http://adeenamade.etsy.com/
http://luckyrosiescreations.etsy.com/
http://joannjewelry.etsy.com/

and, in case you're needing a refresher on how the trade and stay works...

- it starts early next Monday, April 13th morning and will go for 4 days ONLY. the link to the thread will be posted here and sent to everyone on the mailing list.
- it is a Trade and Stay - if someone trades with you, we just add their shop to the list and yours stays! you cannot be added to the list unless you trade onto the list - meaning that you have to trade with someone who is currently on the list to get onto the list (hoo boy, that's a lot of repeating! sorry!)
- we will NOT be tracking the # of trades this time. the trading gets so fast and furious and this way some of the pressures are taken off the listmaster gals! so i hope that's okay.
- the lovely equivoque, flamingolady, raevyn77 and myself will be your listmasters! we will try to ensure that the list is accurate and updated, and that any fights are broken up without injury! LOL! we do ask for your patience with the updating - sometimes we get carried away with chatting, LOL!
- please refresh yourself with the rules on trading here on the blog. any disputes can be convoed to me and i'll try to help.
- feel free to label your trade items with the team tag "TEAM TRADE ON" and/or create a section in your shop with your trade items in it! you can also indicate what you are looking for in your shop announcement or profile - just make sure we know where to look!
- and please don't forget your manners - if someone convos you for a trade, please respond - even if they don't have anything you need or want. it's better to get a "no" instead of no response at all!

Trading Basics 101
Trades are EQUAL. That means that you are trading for an equal value from each other's shops, INCLUDING shipping. So, say i have a $20 necklace that you'd like, with $3 shipping - then i have $23 to spend in your store, including the shipping. If you're out $1 or so, you can agree to let it go - but usually if the difference is $5 or more, i'd send it via paypal.

so, you go and "purchase" the items from each other's shops, but don't complete the payment part! you can check "paypal" if that is the only option, but don't go to paypal!

once you receive your items, leave feedback please!!!!! :)

This part is going to suck but I'll have to say it. If it comes to light that you haven't traded in good faith, then your participation in other events, and your membership, will be in jeopardy. Trading is a way to benefit us ALL, and one person can ruin it for everyone. SO PLEASE TRADE FAIR! Also, we do not condone fee avoidance - it is definitely up to you to decide whether or not to change your prices for this event, but we would encourage everyone to play by the etsy rules as well. Changing your prices to 20 cents IS fee avoidance. It is NOT fair if someone is paying more etsy fees than others - plus karma will get you in the end, and there is the very real possibility that etsy will shut down our team.

For Prospective Members...
just wanted to write a quick note for people that want to become new members of the team, since i've gotten quite a few convos in the past few days about this!
this is what we need from you:
- your shop address/URL (i.e. http://youretsyshop.etsy.com/ )
- your current email address - we have a mailing list that we use to communicate about events and team stuff.
- you must also have no less than 99% positive feedback for your shop
- your shop has to have items in it!
this is what you get for being a member:
- listing on the super long, super awesome trade list - find it here: http://etsytraders.blogspot.com/
- listing of your shop and your blog (if you have one) on the blog here
- inclusion in all of our team events
- being part of one of the most awesome teams on ETSY!
all we ask is that you participate in most of our events. the reason why membership is not open all the time is that we get convos from tons of stores and we update everything... and then never hear from those shops again. it's a lot of work and not fair to the rest of the team. we're also happy to hear ideas about events and challenges and other things we can do as a team - especially around trading!
so i hope this helps explain the membership "process" a little!
- and, a tip from the wonderful flamingolady:

"when trading (in general), be on the look out for scammers, like shops that have items that are too good to be true (might be a reason for that), new shops (might be legit though), check ratings, etc. It can take a month or two for scammers to be found out, most people are leary of leaving bad feedback until someone else does. If you are wary of a shop, and you are an established shop/trader, and you want to help a new shop get established, tell them up front that you will ship out their order after receiving yours... I've done literally dozens of trades, no probs yet, it was on a BNR where I traded with someone and a bunch of us got scammed by one of the shops, they are gone now, though probably opened up a new shop. Trading is good and fun, but remember, there is nothing Etsy can do other than to send a convo, since no funds traded hands. (versus a purchase on PP where the recipient can get their money back). Trade on! "

sparklegarden suggests:

" If I see a new shop (to buy OR trade with) that has little or no feedback, I convo and ask if they have feedback anywhere else (ebay, diaperswappers, etc.)that I can review. This has served me very well. "

PHEW! what a long post! (and now my carpal tunnel has set my hands on fire, LOL!) if you have ANY questions, please don't hesitate to convo me or ask the gang on the chat thread!

see you all on monday!!!!

xoxoxox muffin

p.s. regarding the team list on etsy - yes, it is outdated. we're working on updating it - admin does it, not me, so i have to work with their timeline! but we'll get there eventually!

The Google Analytics Trade and Stay Event!

2009-04-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

yup. we're hooked on Google Analytics... even though some of the terms are beyond us! we figured we'd get a kick out of watching our stats climb by having a Trade and Stay event!!! this one is going to happen on short notice - i'm thinking maybe Monday, April 13th to Thursday, April 16th! then we'll start having the Trade and Stays every two months (thanks to everyone who voted!!!!! your wish is my command!)

so, settle in and sign yourself up for Google Analytics (see the post below for instructions and/or drop into the chat thread here if you run into problems: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6085720 ), start tagging your items with "team trade on", and enjoy the fun!

i will be taking the first 10 shops that CONVO me via ETSY (don't post comments here or email me - i get easily confused!) to be our start list. so hop to it!

xoxoxo muffin

p.s. YES - membership will be open during this event! thanks to leahfelicity for reviewing the team lists (AGAIN) - i will be weeding out all closed/empty shops ASAP!

Google Analytics - Basics 101!

2009-04-06T19:53:00.000-07:00

we've been chatting over on the traders's thread about Google Analytics. i have to admit that at first, i was quite befuddled (and frustrated) over the whole thing. i actually had to register TWICE before i could see my stats! hopefully, this little cheat sheet will help all traders sign up successfully with GA so that you can see where your traffic is coming from! i can't wait to try this at our next Trade and Stay... won't THAT be a hoot!

STEP 1:
visit www.google.com/analytics and sign in (if you have an existing igoogle account)/sign up for a new account.

STEP 2:
click on "Add Website Profile". in the URL area and enter your etsy shop address like this: http://www.yourshop.etsy.com/, set your location, time and hit "finish". If they ask for your shop name type in http://www.yourshop.etsy.com/ (Do NOT include the http:// in the URL)

STEP 3:
when you get to the tracking code page just scroll to the bottom and hit "finish". you don't need this code - it states here that you should copy the code and put on all your webpages, but, lucky for us, etsy already does this for us automatically. just hit "finish".

STEP 4:
on the next page you will see a grey table with your website URL. next to the URL should be a code that looks like UA-1234567-8. highlight and copy the code to your clipboard. (ctrl + C)

STEP 5:
open up a separate browser page (don't close your Google Analytics page) and go to http://www.etsy.com/shop_analytics.php. you can also access the page you need on etsy via "your etsy" - there is a link on the left hand side toolbar that says "web analytics". paste (Ctrl + V) the code in the designated area. save changes.

STEP 6:
now you're finished setting up Google Analytics for your etsy shop!! if you look at the overview page in Google Analytics you will see that there is a yellow symbol with an exclamation mark on it under the status column. this just means that your account isn't showing stats yet - not that you did anything wrong! when it turns into a green check mark then you can start viewing your stats. it can take up to 24 hours for the stats counter to update - but mine started showing before that.

i hope that it helps make things a little clearer for everyone. i know that the first time i registered, the little yellow symbol never went away and i was freaking out thinking that NO ONE was visiting my shop! however, i just deleted the website profile and added it again. i received a new code and i went to etsy and put the new code into the "web analytics" area. and it's worked fine ever since.

so, maybe we should have a Trade and Stay so that we can all watch our GA numbers climb? LOL! what do you think?

xoxoxo muffin

I Want YOUR Vote!

2009-03-24T07:17:00.001-07:00

no, i'm not running for President or Prime Minister, LOL! we've been chatting over in the teams' forum about the success we have for the Trade and Stay events and have been contemplating having them on a more regular basis!

so, i want to hear what you think! i've put a poll up on the sidebar with possible time frames we could be looking at, so please cast your vote!

xoxoo muffin

Yay for the Trade and Stay... and All Hail the New Trade Princess!!!!!!

2009-03-20T11:26:00.000-07:00

i think by now we are all aware that the spectacular SPARKLEGARDEN is our trade princess/"ho" this time around!!!!! definitely several of our other team members gave her a run for her money... but at 43 trades, she was hard to beat! YAY sparkle! we love ya!!

speaking of trades... the grand total (give or take a few - my math skills are cr*ppy) of trades this time around was 209!!!!! HOLY COW!!!!!

so, for the next time, the challenge is to beat sparklegarden and to beat 209 trades in total!!!! do you think we can do it???? LOL!!!!!!!!!!! we will probably have another Trade and Stay in about a month and a half or so... so get to stocking up your shop!!!!!

just FYI - we were discussing the issue of fee avoidance in the chat thread. so everyone knows, the team does NOT condone changing your prices to 0.20 cents during your trades. ETSY considers this fee avoidance and if it becomes rampant, they may shut the team down. i definitely do NOT want this to happen! here is what ETSY says about fee avoidance:

"Fee Avoidance: The price stated in each item listing description must be an accurate representation of the sale. Sellers may charge reasonable shipping and handling fees to cover the costs for packaging and mailing the items. Sellers may not charge excessive shipping fees or otherwise avoid fees. You may not alter the item's price after a sale for the purpose of avoiding Etsy transaction fees, misrepresent the item’s location, or use another user’s account without permission."

i hope that it makes sense and that all of us understand... i know that fees are a b*tch, but so is karma!

Ready, Set, Trade and STAY!

2009-03-15T04:32:00.001-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6080524

The Down and Dirty Details on the Trade and STAY... and a Little Update!

2009-03-10T15:55:00.000-07:00

okay... we're all ready for the next trade and STAY event! i think that we all know how it works, but i'll cut and paste the rules from the last one here for reference sake! there are also some additions to (hopefully) organize the trading frenzy a little! :)

- the trade and stay will go for 4 days ONLY - Sunday, March 15th to Wednesday, March 18th at midnight.

- the link to the thread will be posted here, on the chat thread, and sent to everyone on the mailing list.

- it is a Trade and Stay - if someone trades with you, we just add their shop to the list and yours stays! you cannot be added to the list unless you trade onto the list - meaning that you have to trade with someone who is currently on the list to get onto the list (hoo boy, that's a lot of repeating! sorry!)

- once again, we're also going to track the # of trades that everyone does next to their shop name... oh, the TRUE addicts are going to be revealed, LOL. our little raevyn77 was crowned "Trade Queen/Ho" last time... i wonder who it will be this time!

- the lovely flamingolady, equivoque, raevyn77, makingsbymary and myself will try to keep the lists as accurate as possible - so be patient with the updated list!!! sometimes we get carried away with chatting and trading, LOL! we're going to try to keep you happy traders in line, so please post your trades on the thread and one of us will update it!

- please refresh yourself with the rules on trading here on the blog. any disputes can be convoed to me and i'll try to help. and please don't forget your manners - if someone convos you for a trade, please respond - even if they don't have anything you need or want. it's better to get a "no" instead of no response at all!

and just in case you're interested, here is the list! it's made up of the first 15 shops that responded to my emails and posts on the chat thread!

http://bagsbytracy.etsy.com/
http://butterflydesign1.etsy.com/ or http://earringparadise.etsy.com/
http://equivoque.etsy.com/
http://jerseymaids.etsy.com/
http://joannjewelry.etsy.com/
http://kotibeth.etsy.com/
http://nativebeads.etsy.com/
http://playswithclay.etsy.com/
http://redrobinpretties.etsy.com/
http://salliebear.etsy.com/
http://sherwear.etsy.com/
http://sparklegarden.etsy.com/
http://stacirose.etsy.com/
http://starrclothing.etsy.com/
http://thepeachtree.etsy.com/

even if you're not trading - because you're all traded out - please drop in and chat with us! hope to see everyone there!

btw, the lovely jerseymaids has been perusing the larger etsy traders list here: http://etsytraders.blogspot.com/ and we've slowly been deleting empty and inactive shops. if you find one on your travels through the blogs, please let me know and i'll get it cleaned up ASAP. it's an ongoing process (right, indulgentcreations!) but one day we'll have everything current!

if you are closing shop, want off the lists and/or to cancel your membership with the tradeaholics, please also let me know!

READY, SET, TRADE ON!
xoxoxo muffin

So... You Guys Ready for Another Trade and STAY??????

2009-03-07T17:42:00.000-08:00

so.... you guys ready for another Trade and STAY??????

i'm feeling like we're ready! lol! how does Sunday, March 15th - Wednesday, March 18th sound???? yes, it's coming up soon... but i know you guys would be up for the challenge!

so, if you've caught up with your trades from the last event, let's do this again! (of course, if you're all traded out, you totally don't have to trade - but feel free to join in on the thread! you KNOW you love to chat!)

i'll take the first 8 shops that convo me to be our "start list". so get listing, everyone!!!!!!!!

xoxoxo muffin

Postponing the Scavenger Hunt for Now!

2009-03-01T03:06:00.000-08:00

Hi gang!!!

i figure that everyone is still catching up on trades from the last Trade event, so it's been suggested that we postpone the scavenger hunt until later in the spring! so i was thinking, maybe we'd have another trade and stay event at the end of March... how does that sound?????

details to follow, so watch this space!!!!!

xoxoox muffin

Scavenger Hunt Brainstorming!

2009-02-19T18:51:00.000-08:00

okay, so i've done some research and here are my thoughts on the springtime scavenger hunt! please please feel free to let me know if you have any ideas... i want this to be fun and fabulous!

here goes:

How will people play our game? They will visit each of the participating TradeAHolics' shops (a list will be posted here on the blog and on a Promo thread that we will bump throughout the contest duration) and look through the pictures in the shop listings (recently sold items included). Some shops will contain one picture of a "letter" hiding in one of their shop listings. (i will send the "letter hiding" shops a graphic of the letter and it can be used in one of the photos of a listing in your shop - that way, they are hidden and people will have to dig through your shop to find it!) They will search through the participating shops and jot down the "letter" and the name of the shop they have found the letter in. After they have found all of the letters (we would have to decide on a word!), then they will have to unscramble them to complete a word. When they think they have solved the puzzle, they will convo me or a scavenger hunt designate with their entry and their name. If they are correct their name will go into a drawing to win a prize from the items donated from the participating shops. The contest will end (a week from the start date). All correct entries will be entered into a drawing and the winners will be selected at random and announced on the blog. The winners will be posted here on the blog and on the forums. All participating shops and prizes will also be promoted on the blog!

Members of our team cannot actually play the game - LOL! - for obvious reasons! And people who do enter can only win one prize. But that's pretty obvious too! What we'd need is enough shops to spell something PLUS "dummy" shops that won't have a letter in it (I think 20 shops would be a good number?) plus shops willing to donate a prize (maybe 5?)

Anyway... any thoughts? Let me know! And once we decide the details, I will be deleting this post as to not reveal any of our secrets!!!!!!

xoxoxo muffin

We HEART Trading!

2009-02-18T08:55:00.000-08:00

oh my. what a fabulous event we had! thanks to the flamingolady's fabulous idea, we turned the trading world upside down with a Valentine's TRADE AND STAY!

here is the list at it stood at the conclusion of the event (thanks, muddymoose!)

AlicesAngelJewelry.etsy.com (3 trade)

almondworks.etsy.com (11 trades)

andreastamps.etsy.com/ or ribbonwonders.etsy.com(19 trades)

aPassionForFashion.etsy.com (1 trade)

audreyscountrycrafts.etsy.com (3 trades)

babymoon.etsy.com (1 trade)

bagsbytracy.etsy.com (17 trade)

beckynot.etsy.com (6 trades)

blingismything.etsy.com (10 trade)

bloomingbeads.etsy.com (4 trades)

butterflydesign1.etsy.com and earringparadise.etsy.com (15 trades)

chitowncheryl.etsy.com/

creationsbychristina.etsy.com (2 trades)

creativeborders.etsy.com (3 trades)

cutebabyboutique.etsy.com (2 trade)

decadencedesigns.etsy.com (2 trades)

divinecanine.etsy.com (13 trades)

echoesofstars.etsy.com (7 trades)

equivoque.etsy.com (10 trades)

Geckojewelry.etsy.com (14 trade)

GemsandDolls.etsy.com (4 trade)

girliemomma.etsy.com (1 trade)

gloplace.etsy.com (2 trades)

hattrickclothing.etsy.com (1 trade)

iamtheprincesshbf.etsy.com (2 trades)

indulgentcreations.etsy.com (12 trades)

jennadesigns.etsy.com (3 trades)

jerseymaids.etsy.com (8 trades)

jetflair.etsy.com (1 trade)

johnnyconflict.etsy.com/

jonikay52.etsy.com (2 trade)

kariana84.etsy.com (1 trade)

kellydnlvy.etsy.com (1 trade)

Kerleyskreations.etsy.com (1 trade)

kimsmissprissy.etsy.com (1 trade)

knitsbywhitney.etsy.com/

kotibeth.etsy.com or kotibethphotography.etsy.com (9 trades)

KristysRedBarnBakery.etsy.com and KristysDestash.etsy.com (1 trade)

laurali.etsy.com (6 trades)

lolbaby.etsy.com or lorilong.etsy.com (6 trades)

luckyrosiescreations.etsy.com (1 trade)

MagicIsland.etsy.com (4 trade)

makingsbymary.etsy.com (4 trades)

MissElany.etsy.com (1 trade)

muffintopdesigns.etsy.com (3 trades)

myissag.etsy.com (4 trade)

nativebeads.etsy.com/ (14 trades)

passthelasso.etsy.com/

peachypendants.etsy.com (1 trade)

Peaches4me.etsy.com (8 trades)

pennyspug.etsy.com/ (7 trades)

raevyn77.etsy.com and simplyraevyn.etsy.com and peculiarparchment.etsy.com (23 trades)recupefashion.etsy.com (1 trade)

Redrobinpretties.etsy.com (6 trades)

rusticdivadesigns.etsy.com/ or gypsywynd.etsy.com/ (1 trade)

salsagal.etsy.com (5 trades)

sewcute7.etsy.com (1 trade)

shellrifficheirlooms.etsy.com/

sherwear.etsy.com (3 trade)

sparklegarden.etsy.com (14 trades)

starrclothing.etsy.com (5 trades)

supanerdstef.etsy.com (1 trade)

suzannedesigns.etsy.com (5 trades)

theatticshop.etsy.com OR heatheralexander.etsy.com (4 trade)

themuddymoose.etsy.com (12 trades)

thepeachtree.etsy.com (4 trades)

tothe9s.etsy.com (1 trade)

wheezies.etsy.com (5 trades)

WinterPanda.etsy.com (1 trade)

wispywilds.etsy.com (2 trades)

and the title of "Official Trade HO" goes to...

our fast and furious Raevyn77!!! you definitely are the Trade Queen!

now get working on getting those packages out, traders! i know that i am! and stay tuned for the details on the Spring Scavenger Hunt - i'll be doing the research and will post details ASAP!

thanks again for the wonderful turnout. LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!

xoxox muffin

Link to the Trade And Stay!

2009-02-14T03:25:00.000-08:00

i know you all have been chomping at the bit... i'm awake now!!!!

here's the link to the TRADE AND STAY... http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6042569

see you all there! and thanks to ribbonwonders for curating this AWESOME treasury in celebration!

xoxox muffin

I Heart Trading Valentine's Day Trade and STAY!!!!!

2009-02-09T21:31:00.001-08:00

okay folks, the starter list is finalized and the details are all ironed out! we're having a "I Heart Trading" trade and STAY event for Valentine's Day! thanks to the 31 members who voted on our poll and to the chatters on the thread for brainstorming ideas!

this is how it's going to go down:

- it starts early Valentine's Day morning and will go for 4 days ONLY. the link to the thread will be posted here and sent to everyone on the mailing list.
- it is a Trade and Stay - if someone trades with you, we just add their shop to the list and yours stays! you cannot be added to the list unless you trade onto the list - meaning that you have to trade with someone who is currently on the list to get onto the list (hoo boy, that's a lot of repeating! sorry!)
- we're also going to track the # of trades that everyone does next to their shop name... oh, the TRUE addicts are going to be revealed, LOL!
- there will be a focus on destashing, but if you don't have any destash, don't worry about it - i have lots to destash eventually, but probably won't have the time to take photos or list before we start. we will most likely have some sort of ongoing destash trade thread in the future, so stay tuned for that.
- the lovely flamingolady and myself will try to keep the lists as accurate as possible - but please feel free to update the list if you have successfully traded. sometimes we get carried away with chatting, LOL!
- please refresh yourself with the rules on trading here on the blog. any disputes can be convoed to me and i'll try to help. and please don't forget your manners - if someone convos you for a trade, please respond - even if they don't have anything you need or want. it's better to get a "no" instead of no response at all!

and just in case you're interested, here is the list! it's made up of the lovely shops that ended our last TnR! thanks, you guys, for agreeing to kick us off this time!!!

http://shellrifficheirlooms.etsy.com/
http://rusticdivadesigns.etsy.com/ or http://gypsywynd.etsy.com/
http://indulgentcreations.etsy.com/
http://makingsbymary.etsy.com/
http://knitsbywhitney.etsy.com/
http://pennyspug.etsy.com/
http://nativebeads.etsy.com/
http://passthelasso.etsy.com/
http://johnnyconflict.etsy.com/
http://chitowncheryl.etsy.com/
http://andreastamps.etsy.com/ or http://ribbonwonders.etsy.com
http://recupefashion.etsy.com

(and no trading with the people on the list before Valentine's Day! LOL!)

i can't wait! hope to see everyone there!

xoxoxo muffin

I Heart Valentine's Day Trade and Replace!

2009-02-07T16:50:00.000-08:00

and the tribe has spoken AGAIN! we're up for another trade and replace for our Valentine's Day event! (the scavenger hunt came in a close second, so for spring we'll plan one of those!)

anyways, there have been some suggestions to make this TnR a little different - which i am TOTALLY psyched about! the details are as follows:

- the event will start Valentine's Day and run for a week
- instead of bumping people off the list, shops will be able to trade onto the list and STAY! by the end of the week, the list will be HUGE! but this also will bring more traffic to everyone's shops, and increase the choices for everyone!
- there will be a focus on destashing as well - as they say, one trader's junk is another trader's treasure! so go through your stuff and take photos! we just might end up having an ongoing destash trading thread after this is over!
- we can use the shops that were on the list when we ended the last Trade and Replace. i will convo those shops and make sure that they are okay with that.

how does that sound? any ideas can be discussed on the chat thread here: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6024071 or shoot me a convo!!!!! and don't forget to reread the trading rules!

oh, i LOVE valentine's day!!!!!!!!

p.s. with help from pennyspug, the list of active shops has been purged again. and our new members have been added to all the lists (i hope!) the list on etsy will be updated within a few days once the team gals have gotten around to my email, so don't worry. if i missed you, please convo me and let me know!

p.p.s. fyi - membership will NOT open during this event. it took me this long to get caught up! :)

Update Note!

2009-02-05T19:25:00.001-08:00

hey all!

just a quick note to let everyone know that i'm slowly updating all the lists - i'm just waiting for some stragglers to get back to me about memberships!

if you haven't sent me your email, please do so via etsy convo! and if i've forgotten to add you, please send me a virtual kick in the pants and remind me!

xoxoxooxox

TradeAHolics' Valentine's Challenge!

2009-01-31T08:08:00.000-08:00

february 14th is just around the corner! for some reason, valentine's day is my favorite holiday!!! seeing all the little pink and red hearts everywhere just lifts my spirits!!!! i am sure i'm not alone.... on the most recent Trade And Replace thread, we threw around the idea of having a Valentine's Day challenge/event for the team! so, without further ado, here are the ideas that have popped up! please place your vote ASAP for the challenge that you'd be most up to doing - the poll is on the sidebar!

1. Will You Be My Valentine? - each participating shop will design a "valentine" that will be posted here on the blog! it could be an actual valentine, or something valentine-themed. the deadline for photos to be sent to me (via email or convo, whichever is easier) and i will post them here. we will invite as many people to come and vote on their favorite! the winning designer will be featured in an interview here on the tradeaholics' blog and we will draw for three winners from all the voters! (this means that i will need three donated valentine prizes - you could donate your valentine if you wanted! your shop and the prize would also be featured here on the blog)

2. Secret Valentine Exchange - kind of like our Secret Santa/Hannukah Harry event, shops who want to participate will convo their mailing address to me and i will match them with a "valentine"! no presents required, just a sweet, HANDMADE valentine!!!! how nice would that be, to get an old-fashioned valentine wish in the mail?

3. Valentine's Day Scavenger Hunt - each participating shop must have at least ONE valentine's themed item in their shop. questions about each shop owner will be posted here on the blog and people have to visit the shops to get the answers. it's a great way to get traffic to our stores - and exposure to our valentine's items! people will post their answers here on the blog, and we will do a drawing from the people who have the correct answers!

4. I Heart Etsy Blog Feature - what better way to show another TradeAholic that you love them than by featuring them on your blog! all the shops that want to participate can convo me and i'll match everyone. then you go and "interview" the shop that you get... write a valentine blog post about them!

and last but not least...

5. Valentine's Day Trade and Replace - i don't think that i'd need to explain this, now do i? :) we can make it Valentine's Day only (it falls on a Saturday) or for the whole week following Valentine's Day!

so... what do you guys think? nothing too elaborate, but fun nonetheless!!!!!! and if you want to donate a prize, CONVO me as soon as possible!

GO VOTE!!!!!

The Trade and Replace is HOT HOT HOT!!!!!!

2009-01-26T14:21:00.000-08:00

RibbonWonders (aka AndreaStamps) created this wonderful treasury in tribute to the tradeaholics! Thanks, Andrea!!!!!

The trading is already fast and furious! With too many transactions to list! HOLY COW!! We're ADDICTED!

Post Holiday Trade and Replace Thread Link

2009-01-24T23:05:00.001-08:00

it's what we've all been waiting for!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6013217

xoxoox muffin

p.s. watch this space for details about our Valentine's Day Design Challenge! if you have ideas, or want to donate a prize, convo me via etsy and let me know!

And The Start List Is...

2009-01-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, i really couldn't find an appropriate picture to go with this blog post, but i am sure that it doesn't really matter! here is the OFFICIAL start list for the Trade and Replace this Sunday!!!!

** NOTE: you cannot set up a trade ahead of time! LOL! you're going to have to waiiittttttt...

http://NativeBeads.etsy.com
http://MakingsByMary.etsy.com
http://AlternativeOrchids.etsy.com
http://SparkleGarden.etsy.com
http://SalsaGal.etsy.com
http://maplestreetcreations.etsy.com
http://PhotographyByNicole.etsy.com
http://recupefashion.etsy.com
http://themuddymoose.etsy.com
http://geckojewelry.etsy.com

scroll down for the post on Trade and Replace/Trading rules... and get ready for some FUN!

xoxoxo muffin

Membership Opening Soon!!!!!

2009-01-13T17:48:00.000-08:00

Okay - so we all know that the TRADE and REPLACE is coming up really really soon! and i know that we're all so psyched!!!!

just wanted to write a quick note for people that want to become new members of the team, since i've gotten quite a few convos in the past few days about this!

this is what we need from you:

- your shop address/URL (i.e. http://youretsyshop.etsy.com )

- your current email address - we have a mailing list that we use to communicate about events and team stuff.

- you must also have no less than 99% positive feedback for your shop

- your shop has to have items in it!

this is what you get for being a member:

- listing on the super long, super awesome trade list - find it here: http://etsytraders.blogspot.com

- listing of your shop and your blog (if you have one) on the blog here

- inclusion in all of our team events

- being part of one of the most awesome teams on ETSY!

all we ask is that you participate in most of our events. the reason why membership is not open all the time is that we get convos from tons of stores and we update everything... and then never hear from those shops again. it's a lot of work and not fair to the rest of the team. we're also happy to hear ideas about events and challenges and other things we can do as a team - especially around trading!

so i hope this helps explain the membership "process" a little! and don't forget the trade and replace event coming up on the 25th!

xoxox muffin

Itty Bitty Trading Cheat Sheet!

2009-01-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

Just because we've had so many people inquire about trading, i'm posting this for quick reference - and everyone could use a refresher, right? :)

For our wonderful newbies, these are the rules for a "TnR" - and usually trading in general:
1. Make sure that items that you are willing to trade (and you don't have to trade your whole shop) are tagged with "TEAM TRADE ON". That way, people can search your shop for your tradeable items. If you are looking to trade for specific items, please put it in your shop announcement so that everyone can see. For people on the list, I will also put it next to your shop name so that people know what you're looking for, so please let me know. (i.e. I don't necessarily need jewelry or artwork, but I'd love to trade for baby stuff, bath and body, and clothing. So i'll put that in my announcement.)

2. The Trade and Replace thread will be posted in "PROMOTIONS" - to help promote the event and our team! Even if you're not trading, feel free to keep the thread bumped. you can also use it to showcase new items in your shop!

3. If there is someone on the list that you'd like to trade with, please convo them and approach them for the trade. Please negotiate fairly, and that includes making sure no one gets stiffed on shipping! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not be offended if the person you approach to trade says no. (I know that there are some things that I just can't use right now - it doesn't mean that your stuff isn't amazing!)

4. Once the trade is a done deal, then the both of you post what you got on the thread. If i'm not around, the person who gets bumped OFF the list can update the list on the thread.

5. If there is something you cannot live without, you CAN purchase from someone on the list - and you will bump them off. Trading for money is okay too, LOL!

6. If the both the trader and the tradee are on the current list, then you both stay on the list.

7. You don't have to be on the list to trade - but you won't be put on the list unless you trade with someone on the list. (does that even make sense? LOL)

8. It is expected that you check your convos and the thread at least once a day during the event. With a Trade and Replace, the pace is a little slower because of the negotiation process, but it's not fair if you are on the list and you go away for a few days. People will most likely be sending you trade requests that you will not be answering, which will hold up the whole process. If you can't check in once a day while you're on the list, then please let me know and I'll replace you with someone.

9. It is suggested that if you are convoed by two or more people for a trade, the first person who convoed you (and is successful trading with you) will be the one to bump you off the list. Feel free to trade with the other people who convoed you, but it's only fair that the first one bumps you off the list.

10. I hope that there aren't any trade disputes during our event! However, if any one has any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me to help you work it out. We haven't had any huge brawls here yet, because we all are trading in good faith.

11. Trades are EQUAL. That means that you are trading for an equal value from each other's shops, INCLUDING shipping. So, say I have a $20 necklace that you'd like, with $3 shipping - then I have $23 to spend in your store, including the shipping. If you're out $1 or so, you can agree to let it go - but usually if the difference is $5 or more, I'd send it via paypal.

12. This part is going to suck but I'll have to say it. If it comes to light that you haven't traded in good faith, then your participation in other events, and your membership, will be in jeopardy. Trading is a way to benefit us ALL, and one person can ruin it for everyone. SO PLEASE TRADE FAIR! Also, we do not condone fee avoidance - it is definitely up to you to decide whether or not to change your prices for this event, but we would encourage everyone to play by the etsy rules as well. Changing your prices to 20 cents IS fee avoidance. It is NOT fair if someone is paying more etsy fees - plus karma will get you in the end.

Does that all make sense? if not, let me know and i'll try to clarify... or post on the chat thread and we'll help you out!

i can't wait till the trade and replace!!!! YAY!!!!

xoxo muffin

POST HOLIDAY HANGOVER TRADE & REPLACE! are you game?

2009-01-02T17:57:00.000-08:00

the holidays are finally over... but 2009's trading is just beginning! and to kick it off, we're having the post holiday hangover Trade and Replace event the last week of January! if you want to be on the start list, convo me via etsy and i'll set you up!

that means that we'll begin early on the morning of Sunday, January 25th, 2009, and end at midnight, Saturday, January 31st, 2009. it would break up the long winter, wouldn't it? hopefully everyone will pop in! membership also will open up again for the duration of the TnR... so if any lurkers want in, now is the time! we actually have a couple of newbies who will be making their debut on this TnR, so let's make them feel welcome!

so, don't forget to review the rules of the Trade and Replace here on the blog, and tag your tradeable items with the tag "Team Trade On".

by the way, if you also want off the trading list(s) or want to retire your membership - let me know and i can fix that up too. :)

i will post the location of the thread here on the blog and on the tradeaholics' chat thread so that everyone can find us easily!

READY, SET, TRADE ON!!!!!!!

xoxox muffin

Post Holiday Hangover Trade and Replace!

2008-12-20T04:07:00.001-08:00

hey peeps!!!!!

anticipating the inevitable post-holiday hangover/letdown/blues/what have you, i thought we could be preventative by having another Trade and Replace to help counteract the symptoms!

i've posted a poll on the sidebar as to dates in January that we could have the next TnR... please vote!!!

i also hope that most of you who participated in our lovely Secret Santa/Hannukah Harry event have received your presents... if not, please let me know via convo and i'll try to help!

happy holidays to you guys - LOVE YA!

xoxoxoox

Secret Santas/Hannukah Harrys... Please Check In!!!!!

2008-12-04T14:02:00.000-08:00

Little elves have been telling me that they have sent their presents... and i think they've started rolling in!!!!!!

When you get your present, please post on our chat thread so we can ooooh and ahhhh over what you got! you can find it here: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5877812&page=1

and don't forget to add a comment to the original secret santa/hannukah harry blog post when you've sent your item... the deadline has long passed!!!!!

whoot whoot for holiday presents!!!!!

Itsy Bitsy Fast and Furious Trade and Replace!

2008-11-12T07:26:00.000-08:00

Anyone interested in an itsy bitsy fast and furious trade and replace this weekend? i'm taking the first seven shops that convo me and we'll go from Friday night to Sunday night!!!!!!!

Whaddya think???? (i already have one taker!)

xoxo muffin

p.s. (don't post your intentions here because i won't be checking them as much as my convos!)

TEAM List Updated on ETSY!

2008-11-05T07:09:00.000-08:00

Hi all! Just FYI - sarawearsskirts has updated our team profile page on ETSY! All of our members SHOULD be on the list now... if you aren't, please convo me and let me know and i'll try to fix it up ASAP!

thanks to makingsbymary, here's the link:

http://team.etsy.com/profilest/trades.shtml

YIPPEE for our team!!!!!!!!!!

BTW - everyone who wanted to participate in the Secret Santa/Hanukkah Harry event has been sent the details... :) i can't WAIT!!!!!!

The 1st Annual Traders' Secret Santa/Hanukkah Harry Gone WILD Event!

2008-10-25T04:25:00.000-07:00

Always feeling like you never have any fun during the holiday season? Always buying for other people but never for yourself? Wish that you could participate in a fabulous, ETSY TradeAHolics -wide Secret Santa/Hannukah Harry exchange where EVERYONE is a winner??????

Then hope and wish no longer! Here is the TradeAHolics' Secret Santa/Hannukah Harry Gone WILD!!!!! It's easy! Just read the rules below!

♥ This is definitely NOT mandatory! Only willing Secret Santas, please! (lol!) If you sign up, you agree to participate - you CANNOT pull out once the list has been compiled! THE DEADLINE FOR SIGNING UP IS MIDNIGHT OCTOBER 31st, 2008!!!!

♥ The Secret Santa gift that you send to your Santa should be around $25 - it can be 1 - 3 items totalling $25. The gift MUST be handmade by you!

♥ Please convo - and ONLY convo - muffintopdesigns with the following information (feel free to cut and paste to make life a little easier!) If you can put SECRET SANTA in the convo subject line, that would be fantastic and save me a lot of hair pulling later!

Real Name:
Etsy Shop:
Favorite Colors:
Favorite Hobbies:
Favorite Scents/Flavours:
Favorite Things:
Any allergies/food dislikes etc:
Any other info that can help your Secret Santa choose something especially for you!:
Shipping Address:

♥ Names will be matched on Saturday, November 1st, 2008 and you will be convo'd the information on your Secret Santa. PLEASE NOTE: you will only be sending one package to one person! It's low maintenance!!!!!

♥ Packages should be sent out by Nov 28th, 2008 to receive in time for Christmas - or sometime shortly thereafter. I would suggest sending it via Priority Mail/Airmail with Delivery Confirmation, a tracking number, and/or insurance, just in case it gets lost in the holiday rush!

♥ When you send your item, post a comment on this thread (and this thread only) that you sent it - BUT NOT TO WHOM!!!!! (it's a secret, remember?)

Any questions? :) Happy Santa/Harry-ing!

xooxox muffin (and mini muffin)

Our New Weekly Thread!

2008-10-18T23:46:00.000-07:00

Now that we're already in Trade and Replace withdrawal... at least we can still gather round the espresso machine and CHAT!

Here's the location of this week's chat thread: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5864791

Feel free to show off your newest creations, negotiate trades, vent about life, or just hang out!

TRADE ON!

xoxox muffin

p.s. please also note that our membership is now CLOSED!!!! sorry!!!!

TnR Thread Location!

2008-10-04T05:39:00.001-07:00

here we go!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5839640

READY, SET, TRADE ON!!!!!!

FALL'S TRADE AND REPLACE STARTS THIS SATURDAY!!!!!!

2008-10-01T14:10:00.001-07:00

Hi all!!! We've been working on updating all the lists and all the blogs and I can finally see the light! Thanks to everyone for being so patient with me and Ak while we do this! In celebration, we're kicking off our Fall TRADE AND REPLACE event this Saturday, October 4th, 2008! This one is going to go for TWO whole weeks, so be READY!!!!!

For our wonderful newbies, these are the rules for a "TnR":

1. Make sure that items that you are willing to trade (and you don't have to trade your whole shop) are tagged with "TEAM TRADE ON". That way, people can search your shop for your tradeable items. If you are looking to trade for specific items, please put it in your shop announcement so that everyone can see. For people on the list, I will also put it next to your shop name so that people know what you're looking for, so please let me know. (i.e. I don't necessarily need jewelry or artwork, but I'd love to trade for baby stuff, bath and body, and clothing. So i'll put that in my announcement.)

2. The Trade and Replace thread will be posted in "PROMOTIONS" - to help promote the event and our team! The first list this time will be made up of 15 of our newbies! (thank you to the volunteers!)

4. Once the trade is a done deal, then the both of you post what you got on the thread. If I, AkHotDoggies, IndulgentCreations or CreationsbyChristina are not around, the person who gets bumped OFF the list can update the list on the thread.

5. If there is something you cannot live without, you CAN purchase from someone on the list - and you will bump them off. Trading for money is okay too, LOL!

6. If the both the trader and the tradee are on the current list, then you both stay on the list.

7. You don't have to be on the list to trade - but you won't be put on the list unless you trade with someone on the list. (does that even make sense? LOL)

10. I hope that there aren't any trade disputes during our event! However, if any one has any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me, IndulgentCreations and CreationsByChristina and we will try to help you work it out. We haven't had any huge brawls here yet, because we all are trading in good faith.

11. This part is going to suck but I'll have to say it. If it comes to light that you haven't traded in good faith, then your participation in other events, and your membership, will be in jeopardy. Trading is a way to benefit us ALL, and one person can ruin it for everyone. SO PLEASE TRADE FAIR! Also, we do not condone fee avoidance - it is definitely up to you to decide whether or not to change your prices for this event, but we would encourage everyone to play by the etsy rules as well.

So, over the next couple of days, think about what you need and tag your items! I will email everyone the thread, post it on the weekly thread, and post it here on the blog.

The list is as follows (in the order that people commented on the blog)

http://vidia2be.etsy.com/

http://pattibear.etsy.com/

http://feltuptees.etsy.com/

http://healingstones.etsy.com/

http://plumstars.etsy.com/

http://monasmane.etsy.com/

http://ciaohound.etsy.com/

http://sidheforest.etsy.com/

http://kimsmissprissy.etsy.com/

http://mrsalib.etsy.com/

http://sweetside.etsy.com/

http://luckyrosiescreations.etsy.com/

http://stacirose.etsy.com/

http://blingismything.etsy.com/

http://passthelasso.etsy.com/

http://wheezies.etsy.com/

http://dreamersweb.etsy.com/

http://designsbygalina.etsy.com/

http://tmrey.etsy.com/

http://covetables.etsy.com/

Any questions? Everyone ready? START YOUR BROWSING!!!!!!!

xoox muffin

FINAL List Updating... and Trade and Replace details!

2008-09-24T03:28:00.000-07:00

okay. so Ak and i have received tons of membership requests and confirmations... so i will be updating our blog lists and our mailing list and hopefully we'll be good to go!!! indulgentcreations has cleaned up the huge trade list too, so it looks like our housekeeping is almost over!! thanks to everyone for being so patient!!!

so... to kick this all off, we'd LOVE to have a HUGE 2 week long trade and replace event!!! we'd like this list to be made up of some of our newbies who are willing to show themselves and their shops off! if you don't know what a trade and replace is, read this:

"Trade & Replace - exactly like a Buy & Replace - except no money exchanges hands. There will be 10 - 15 names on the list, and people who want to "trade in" will have to negotiate with whomever they want to bump off for a trade... of course, if you want to BUY in, how can we say no? Remember, NO money changes hands, you negotiate a fair trade including your shipping."

I hope that makes sense!

So newbies - if you'd like to be one of the shops to kick us off, add a comment HERE with your shop name! I'll be taking the first 15!!!

And everyone else - don't forget to label your items for trade with our tag, "TEAM TRADE ON"!

Ready, set, TRADE ON!!!!

xoxooxox muffin

The Future of Trading... Looking Ahead!

2008-08-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

i just want to thank everyone who has helped me keep the membership thread alive over at etsy... and to everyone who responded to our "cleaning house" email! Ak and i are in the process of reviewing all the info we got back and will post the membership list here ASAP!

i've also done some research into how we can be more active, have more fun (as if that would be possible, LOL!) and promote ourselves, both individually and as a team. our trade and replace events have been so fabulously successful that i think that it would be easy for us to be even more successful if we got creative!

so here is a list of some of the "events" that i thought that our team can put on in the upcoming year... read this over (sorry it's so long), and feel free to post your comments, thoughts, & creative ramblings. we want to hear what you want to do!!!! (please note that some of these ideas are quoted from my research "sources" because they've explained it so perfectly already!)

1. Card/Promo Swap (from the Storque) - Card swapping is a low-cost, easy way to get your shop's name out. By swapping cards with members of your Team, you can promote each other's shops by word of mouth and give potential customers something to remember to check it out. Team members personally recommending a shop means the buyer is more likely visit, mark as a favorite, recommend to a friend, or even buy something for themselves. Most Etsy Team members who are sellers have business cards with their Etsy shop addresses on them. There are countless ways to make these cards to promote your shop, including inexpensive ways to make cards yourself, using stamps or having them printed in bulk.
To begin the swap, post publicly however your Team communicates (through email, a Flickr or Google group, etc.) announcing a call for participants in the swap. Card swaps are most effective when the swapping occurs between shops with complementary styles. Consider your target demographic and the demographic of the other shops you are swapping with.
One person should be in charge of collecting all the mailing addresses via email from participants. Set a deadline for sending in addresses (there should be an end date to the swap).
Once the emails are collected, compile a list or spreadsheet with all of the addresses. If there are fewer than 12-15 participants, send the whole spreadsheet to everyone on the list. If there are more than 15-20 participants, break the list into smaller, more manageable lists, and send each list to the members of that list.
Each participant sends a small stack of their business cards to each address on the list.
Once the cards are received, each participant includes cards from other members in packages they mail out from sales in their shop, or distributes the cards in person to potential buyers or at craft shows or markets.
Your Team can organize card swaps as often as you see fit, and organizers can take turns putting the swaps together. Enjoy! And get creative about what types of promo items and cards you swap, and how you distribute the cards you receive from the swap!

2. Studio Tour - i know that we had been kicking the idea of doing a virtual studio "tour" via simultaneous features on the team blog and individual shop blogs. i also just realized that etsy has been doing the same via the Storque - talk about reinventing the wheel!!!! LOL! the initial conversations around this idea involved featuring 2 team members every week or so - what we would need is a brief write up about your studio space, as well as any photos you might want to share with the world! at the same time, you would post about your studio space on your blog - this way, we can generate traffic to members' individual blogs too! i know that we all feel like we already know each other, but this will put a more "human" face onto who you are!

3. Online Sale Event - easy peasy, right? we all agree on a sale event that we will all run simultaneously. we can also start a shop "ring" associated with the sale where you promote another shop (or shops) in your shop announcement (which would totally rock now that etsy has enabled links to other etsy shops in the announcement section!!!)

4. Scavenger Hunt - now this would need a little more creative padding because this has the possibility of becoming quite involved. i remember entering a scavenger hunt held by a team who were all from the same city who chose a location in that city that you had to find. you had to go through the shops involved, read the profiles to find clues, and then post on their blog what you thought the answer was. (does that even make sense? geez, i need more sleep) anyway, at the end, the winners got to pick from prizes that had been donated from the team members. anyway, in a nutshell, it was quite fun. the storque featured the scramble hunt organized last year by the Plush Team - read about it here: http://www.etsy.com/storque/section/events/article/plushteam-scramble-hunt-contest/321/

5. Collaborating on a Piece of Art/Grab Bag - little missindie had a great idea that she posted on our thread - she explains it pretty well here:
"we should do a giant art piece that gets sent to each member of the group that wants to participate. and the rules could be that when you get the piece in the mail you have to add something to it [something that corresponds with your shop] like add a crochet piece if you crochet or add beads if you make jewelry. then you send it to the next person on the list so that they can add their piece and so on and so forth. we could sell it and then split the cost between everyone that participated. Or donate the money to a cause."

along the same lines, the TransCanada team has formed a little collective where they collaborate on goodie bags/grab bags. their shop is here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5343947 and check out their profile as to how they make it work.

6. Weekly Team Thread - okay, i have to admit that i LOVE LOVE LOVE checking in on you guys every day since we have started the membership thread. and i find that i end up missing everyone once our trade and replaces are over... so if we had a weekly thread that started every Monday, it would be like our own virtual coffeehouse!!!! we would catch up on everyone's new items, share stories and problem solve etsy issues, and just hang out!!! (of course, if i'm the only one feeling this way, then just smack me, please!)

7. LAST BUT NOT LEAST... the all famous TRADE AND REPLACE! - yes, i admit it. i'm a junkie. and this WILL be our next team event, hopefully to run at the end of September after we compile the members' list and everyone gets back to school/work/whatever. i'd like for us to feature all new members, or members who haven't participated in a TnR before, so i will be convoing you newbies to ask if you want to participate this time around! and of course, our "old-timers" will be around to bump you off the list!!! let's show our members some LOOOVVVEEEE!!!

anyway, that's what i've come up with so far. i am dying to hear your thoughts!!!!!!!!!!!

xoxoxoox muffin

Cleaning House! Active Memberships!

2008-08-12T01:12:00.000-07:00

as everyone knows, Ak and i have been planning to clean house for some time. Our team has grown exponentially in the past few months, and we're so happy to have such great etsians as part of our community!

however, it's become quite obvious that not everyone who signs up for the team becomes an active member. and because our team is all about trading and teamwork, we'd like our members to participate in our events, and not necessarily just be a part of the team in name only.

as teams go, we're pretty low-key and low-pressure! and i'd like to think that we have fun!!!!! this is in NO way a put down on the shops that haven't participated - we do know that life gets in the way sometimes!

so, the instructions are simple. please send me a convo if you'd like to remain on the traders' team active members' list. and please participate as much as you can if you DO decide to remain on the list!

we will be planning another trade and replace event - and the studio tour - ASAP, so get cracking!!!

love you guys,
xoxoxoxo muffin

We LOVE Trading!!!!! Plus, the "Studio Tour" and Cleaning House!

2008-08-02T03:32:00.001-07:00

Okay, i've finally recovered from the Trade And Replace!!!! and what a fantastic time we all had! the trading was fast and furious, the goods were fabulous, and the conversations, as always, were fantastic!

i personally had about 10 trades as a result... how many did YOU do! i love everything that i've gotten so far - you gals are sooo talented!!!!!

here are some of the highlights:

"trade ho"!!!! (take a look at threeofwands' trade ho bracelet in the picture above!)

all of our wonderful new newbies!!!!!! YAY!!!

brownies, marshmallows and fudge

the trading buzz

not sleeping because of the trade addiction

there are actually too many good memories to post here.... :)

thanks again to everyone who participated - and i can't WAIT for the next one!

as most of you know, Ak and i will be "cleaning house" this month in regards to whittling down our membership list. we have quite a few people who aren't very active with the team, so we'd like to take a roll call of people who would like to remain members... but you have to promise to be active in our events! LOL! seriously though, how can you help but trade? LOLLLLLLL!!!

we also talked about doing a "studio tour" of members' workspaces here on the blog, so stay tuned for details! i think that we'll feature two members' spaces here on the team blog, each week or two, so get thinking about what you'd like to say and take some pictures of your space! (even if it's just a TV tray in front of the couch!) you can also feature your space simultaneously on your own blog!

anyway, now i'm babbling... thanks again everyone for EVERYTHING! see you all soon!

xoxoxoox muffin

July's Trade and Replace Link

2008-07-19T02:16:00.000-07:00

Just in case you need the link...

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5719348

xoxox muffin

July's Trade and Replace!!!! THE LIST!

2008-07-18T03:19:00.000-07:00

guys and gals.... tomorrow's the BIG day!!!!

i haven't heard from anyone yet on the starting list that they can't be part of the game this time... so here it is!

http://julibeeKitsch.etsy.com
http://EchoesOfStars.etsy.com/
http://GreyBrocket.etsy.com/
http://indulgentcreations.etsy.com
http://KaleidoscopeStyle.etsy.com/
http://heychica.etsy.com/
http://snitterdog.etsy.com/ or http://thegreenefairy.etsy.com
http://snailpaw.etsy.com/
http://mimisjewels.etsy.com/
http://butterflydesign1.etsy.com or http://earringparadise.etsy.com
http://chendric.etsy.com/
http://GemsAndDolls.etsy.com
http://gloplace.etsy.com/

once again, review the blog for the "rules" of this TnR and get your shops ready! i'll be starting the thread about 6 am ETSY time, so please please please help me keep the thread up and the trading flowing!

READY, SET, TRADE ON!

xoxoxo muffin

Our Next TnR... and Happy Move, Ak!!!

2008-07-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

Rumour has it that everyone's itching to get moving on the Trade and Replace!!! Hopefully everyone has gotten the email that Ak sent today! We are so looking forward to our Christmas in July... i know i'll be making my list over the next week!!!!

So grab your datebooks and mark down Saturday, July 19th, early morning ETSY time! That's when i'll start the thread, and post the link here! i'll be using the list that our last TnR ended with, so if you can't make it, please let me know and we'll replace you. you MUST be able to participate relatively actively, so please feel free to stay and chat and bump up the thread!

remember, you don't have to be a member to play in the TnR! i hope that you'll ALL be there!

i will post the list closer to the start of the TnR just so people can let me know if they'll be participating.

and while we're here... let's wish AkHotDoggies a wonderful move to her new home! we'll miss you while you're relocating... and can't WAIT for you to get back here to ETSY and your team!!!! safe travel and lots of love!!!

xoxoo muffin

Are You Guys Ready for CHRISTMAS IN JULY???

2008-07-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

Gang, you know you're ready... it's going to be Christmas in July!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So watch your email and this blog for the date - it's coming up SOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TEAM MEMBERSHIP TEMPORARILY CLOSED!!!

2008-06-20T04:25:00.000-07:00

Hi all!!!

Due to the overwhelming number of new requests to join our team, we've temporarily closed membership for the summer... this definitely does NOT mean that we won't still have our trade and replaces, or other team events, just that we won't be taking on any new members.

Ak and I will be sending an email out sometime in the next few weeks to everyone who is currently on the team to inqure about membership status and whether or not they would like to continue being on our team. We do have 25 or so very active members right now - which totally ROCKS!!!!!!!! So, think about it...

If you have any questions or comments, please please please let us know! WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!

xooxox AK and muffin

June's Trade & Replace... Another SUCCESS!!!!

2008-06-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the team members who made this Trade and Replace another fabulous success!!!! I know that people have already started getting their packages in the mail, and you can feel the joy!!!!!

Here are some highlights:

snitterdog, courtneywatson, eastcoastkitsch, and both knits making their trade debuts
creationsbychristina cheering up gloplace
indulgentcreations cleaning everyone up with her marvelous soaps
flamingolady trying to convince everyone that flamingos CAN make good housepets
beckynot showing off her animal saving efforts
gems' gorgeously scented stuffies
chendric, ravyen, kaleidoscope, butterfly1, echoesofstars, mimi and muffin's jewelery
kristy's red barn bakery goodies and thisisit's fabulous journals
lorain's soy candles lighting up the place
rusticdiva and heychica bouncing in and off the list multiple times
salsagal's upcoming wedding
magymai711 and lapetite's vintage stuff

I know i've missed people... but everyone knows how wonderful they are... and how wicked our team is!!!!!!!!

We'll have another next month, and the theme is Christmas in July!!!! so get your holiday lists ready and you won't have to shop come December!!!!!!

Thanks again, gang, we love ya!!!!!!!!!!

xoxoxo Ak and Muffin

THE TnR THREAD!

2008-06-07T02:51:00.000-07:00

ARE YOU READY?

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5653891

ONLY A FEW HOURS LEFT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

xoxoxo Ak & muffin

June's Trade & Replace Lineup!!!

2008-06-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

ARE YOU READY? THE TRADE & REPLACE STARTS THIS SATURDAY!!!!!!!!!

The line up is as follows:

http://rusticdivadesigns.etsy.com/

http://raevyn77.etsy.com/

http://snitterdog.etsy.com/

http://creationsbychristina.etsy.com/

http://thisisit.etsy.com/

http://eastcoastkitsch.etsy.com/

http://beckynot.etsy.com/

http://snailpaw.etsy.com/

http://mimisjewels.etsy.com/

http://negellatj.etsy.com/

http://gloplace.etsy.com/

Someone posted under the blogger id "Dee" - can you give me your etsy shop name so i can add it to the list? I can't access your blogger profile to see what your shop is!!!!!

Just in case one of these shops cannot fulfill it's TnR duties, indulgentcreations (http://indulgentcreations.etsy.com/) is the alternate shop!!!!

So, go ahead and browse these shops... who are you going to bump off first? Hee hee!

xoxoox Ak and Muffin

Our New Banner!!!!!!!!! And Our WINNER - WENDIWINN!

2008-06-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

We are sooo pleased to announce that the team has chosen the fabulous banner that we have here as our official banner!!!!!!!!!!!

And it's all thanks to our wonderful wendiwinn! (http://wendiwinn.etsy.com) Her talents will be adorning our blog for (hopefully) years to come!

Thanks to everyone for voting... and see you all at the Trade and Replace this weekend!!!!!!!!

xoxoox Ak and Muffin

TRADE AND REPLACE - Celebrating the Return of SPRING!

2008-05-23T04:27:00.000-07:00

Hey fellow trade-a-holics! It's time again for another trade and replace!!!!!

We're aiming for early June, so get your shop ready!

We are starting with a new list, so if you are interested, please post your comment here! if you have any questions, write AkHotDoggies (http://akhotdoggies.etsy.com/) or Muffin (http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com/) by June 5th! We will then have the Trade and Replace the following weekend. We'd really like to see some of our new members come out and show off their talents!

WE WILL BE TAKING THE FIRST 12 MEMBERS WHO POST HERE!

If you need a refresher about how a Trade And Replace works, check this out - http://etsytradeaholics.blogspot.com/2008/03/newbie-traders-guide-volume-one.html

Are you ready? We are!

READY, SET, TRADE ON!!!!!!!!!

xoxoxo Ak and Muffin

(and don't forget to vote for our banner, if you haven't already!)

Trade-A-Holics Design Challenge!!!!

2008-05-13T16:54:00.000-07:00

#1

#2

#3

Well, gang, the time has finally come! You all know that we have been looking for a new banner for our blog... and here are the entries!!!! The participating artists are wendiwinn (http://wendiwinn.etsy.com/), kieutiepie (http://kieutiepie.etsy.com/), AkHotDoggies (http://akhotdoggies.etsy.com/) and Muffin (http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com/)

We will be voting for the next two weeks or so, and the winning banner/widget will be used here on the blog!

So take a look, and cast your VOTE - or two!!! (Voting is by the numbers - the winning artist will be revealed at the end of the contest!!)

Ready, set, VOTE! (and of course, Trade ON!!!)

xoxoxoox

Another Successful Trade & Replace!!!!

2008-04-28T18:29:00.001-07:00

Once again, the traders have indulged in their addiction!!! Trade, trade and more trading went on all week long! Not to mention the chats and the support amongst these super fine etsy shops!

Some of the more memorable moments...

- Raevyn's awesome treasury

- Christina and sunraven's 'tini avatars

- Indulgent's monkey farts

- distracting butercups from her car problems

- lucie39 trading till she was too pooped to post

- beadsidesmyself and chocolate milk

- Ak getting addicted to Pouncing team members

- kolton's one eyed monsters

- shaving our legs (again? WTF?)

- and of course, food - cinnamon rolls, biscotti, and the ubiquitous FUDGE!!!!

Stay tuned to help us plan for the next Trade & Replace! We'll have a "choose the date" poll up soon, so start posting your comments here if you want to be one of the 12 to start us off next time!!!!!

Thanks again to everyone who kept us going and to all who traded!!!! Whoot whoot!

Trade on!!!

xoxox Ak and muffin

HEY YA!!!!!!!!!! APRIL'S TRADE & REPLACE GAME!

2008-04-20T03:32:00.001-07:00

hey all!!! today's the DAY!!!!!!!!!

come and join us over at the TRADE AND REPLACE GAME in the Promotions Forum!

the game runs from today till next Sunday at midnight!!!! the rules are the same... but you never know what you're gonna find!!!!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5576038

if you have any questions, please let Ak or Muffin know!

READY, SET, TRADE ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Designer Challenge!

2008-04-15T06:45:00.000-07:00

We're still in need of a Team Banner for our blogsite PLUS a team widget. The original deadline for submissions was April 21.

Come on, Traders!! Let's see those creations!