EtsyKids

Introducing King Soleil

2012-02-02T06:00:00.002-05:00

Today We Introduce You To EtsyKids Team Member Morgan from King Solei l!

Q:  What motivated you to start your shop?
I taught myself how to crochet as a way to wind down from my day as a stay at home mommy. A cup of tea, some super soft yarn, and a hook is all I needed to sooth my soul. I started making clothing and accesories for myself and my children, and rugs for my house, and realized that I went to bed at night thinking about my next pattern and woke up the next morning rearing to go! King Soleil is a way for me to share what I love to do, and continue being a stay at home mommy to my babies. I couldn't feel more lucky!

Q:  What is the story behind your shop name?
My shop name, King Soleil, is named after the loves of my life and ultimate inspirations; my children, King (Kingston) 16 months, and Soleil, 3 years. Soleil gets a kick out of seeing her name on all my tags and site!

Q:  Do you have a favorite Etsy Shop (non-child related)?
Ouma. I am in LOVE with Ouma. One day I will save up to buy one of her amazingly gorgeous dresses. LOVE.

Q:  What surprised you most about having your own craft / online shop?
I think I was most surprised at how much I would love every aspect of running the shop. Before King Soleil, I didn't even know what a tweet was, or how to write a blog. I didn't know how to set up a facebook page. Now I have all those things and more and even designed my own website! I love promoting, editing my pictures, researching, and above all, creating. I never thought this business could compete with my previous job, as a family and adolescent at-risk counselor. But I honestly feel happier...like this is what I was meant to do. ::smile::

Q:  What do you find most challenging about being an Etsy seller?
I have so many ideas, books and books filled with patterns and sketches, and baskets of products, but i just don't have the time to put them all online. Making a product is one thing, photographing, editing, writing up a description, and promoting them all, is quite another. Maybe one day, I will post them all, but then again, by that time I will most likely have twice as many baskets and books filled with ideas. C'est la vie.

Q:  What's your personal philosophy behind your shop / products?
It is all about balance. It is so important to have a sense of balance in one's life, and I use this as an esthetic when designing, above anything else. For instance, when making my rugs, if I want to add a detailed cherry branch with flowers, the rest of the rug is super simple. A rug with no appliques? Uber bright. Same idea as my accessories, keep it modern and simple, but fun and unexpected. Old school embroidery hoop art? Let's add a big mustache. Mix it up, but keep it classic. Balance.

Q:  How would someone (other then you) describe you?
An old soul. At 27, with my 2 babies, curled up on my couch in my little cottage with my crochet hooks and yarn balls scattered around, a steaming cup of tea, and Norah Jones playing in the background, I am in heaven. At age 10, my mother would constantly remind me that she is, in fact, the parent. In high school, I met my now husband. During college at Tulane University in New Orleans, I chose board games, jazz clubs and cajun restaurants over Mardis Gras craziness, well, MOST of the time :)

Q:  What music do you have on while you are creating?
It's either Norah Jones calmess that brings back days of living in Manhattan, or Dirty Heads reggae / rap that reminds me of my beach days living in Hawaii and Miami. Both make me super happy and each set of memories helps inspire different products. Cherry Tree rug? Flower Cowl? Dirty Heads. Modern Dandelion Rug? Snow Bunny Skirt and Cowl? Norah Jones.

Q:  What do you do when you aren't working?
This is kind of a trick question because my two jobs, running King Soleil, and being a mommy never really end. I suppose if I am not crocheting, promoting, or chasing babies, I like to think of my next travel destination, hike, look through house listings (my 5 year goal is to buy a house), and get a foot rub from my super cute husband ::wink wink::

Q:  Anything else you'd like to tell us or share?
Thank you for sharing this little bit of insite into the world of King Soleil and my family. EtsyKids is peachy keen!

February 2012 EtsyKids Desktop Background

2012-01-31T09:09:00.000-05:00

Here is the desktop calendar for February 2012! This month it is all about the love with feature items in red and pink and full of hearts! You can see a treasury of all these items here.

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Homemade Spice Blends

2012-01-30T14:09:00.000-05:00

Today we have a guest post from Sweet Child of Mine.

I love cooking and trying new flavors, so I have an extensive variety of spices. As a way to save money and avoid MSG and sugar, I decided to put together my own spice blends. Having my own spice blends on hand is definitely a time-saver too. I just make enough to fill an old seasoning container, then when I need it for a recipe, I just shake the spices in. Here are my recipes for taco, ranch and poultry seasoning.

Taco Seasoning:

6T chili powder
5T paprika
4.5T cumin
2.5T onion powder
.5t cayenne pepper
1T oregano
1T coarse salt
1T garlic powder

Mix all of these into an empty spice shaker, ziplock bag or airtight container. Use in any recipe that you'd normally use a pre-packaged taco seasoning.

Ranch Seasoning:

4T parsley
3T pepper
4T season salt
2T garlic powder
1T onion powder
.5T thyme
3T chives
3T dill

Mix all of these into an empty spice shaker, ziplock bag or airtight container. Use in any recipe that you'd normally use a pre-packaged ranch seasoning. Mix into sour cream for a delicious dip without all of the additives of store-bought dip.

Poultry Seasoning:

4T salt
2T paprika
1T cayenne pepper
1T onion powder
1T thyme
1T white pepper
1T garlic powder
1T black pepper
1T curry powder

Mix all of these into an empty spice shaker, ziplock bag or airtight container. I use this on all of the poultry that I cook. It makes a nice rub for chicken and turkey, and I also shake some over boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

EtsyKids Design Challenge: We have a Winner!

2012-01-28T21:10:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the winner of our January's challenge, Valentine's Day Bow - Kisses for Sale - Layered Boutique Bow by LittleTrendsBoutique!

This lovely Etsy boutique features the latest styles and trends for children in headbands, pacifier clips, hats, and a large variety of bows. All are handmade to order just for you. You can visit LittleTrendsBoutique right here.

Introducing Melon Dot

2012-01-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

Today we introduce you to Sarah from Melon Dot!

Q: What motivated you to start your shop?
I started my shop after inheriting my gramma's sewing machine. She was a master crafter of all kinds. I wish I would have learned my from her.

Q:  What is the story behind your shop name?
My shop name came from brainstorming. I listed lots of different things/words that I like and tested out combos. Melon also represents some of my favorite colors: pink and green.

Q:  Do you have a favorite Etsy Shop (non-child related)?
I do not have one particular etsy shop that I am a fan of. I have been doing a lot of looking in shops that feature wall art recently looking for items to add to the walls in our new home! A shop called rookies also has some seriously scrumptious looking desserts.

Q:  What surprised you most about having your own craft / online shop?
I really enjoy having an etsy shop. My favorite thing about running my etsy shop is meeting so many people and crafting something unique just for them or the little one in their life.

Q:  What do you find most challenging about being an Etsy seller?
The most challenging obstacle in being an etsy seller is staying on top of everything. I create extra work for myself when I am not organized because I double and triple check myself. Now that I have my own workspace and am not constantly clearing projects from a family space it is much easier.

Q:  What's your personal philosophy behind your shop / products?
My personal philosophy behind my shop and products is to be open and honest. I love providing options and being confronted with new ideas from buyers.

Q:  How would someone (other then you) describe you?
Someone else would describe me as caring, positive, and strong.

Q:  What music do you have on while you are creating?
My kids provide all the music in our house! Usually my sewing time is calm time.

Q:  What do you do when you aren't working?
When I am not working, I am with my kids helping them create. They have projects galore to do! They go through a lot of glue and felt and string.

Q:  Anything else you'd like to tell us or share?
I am in awe of all things etsy.

Curling up with a good book

2012-01-24T07:39:00.000-05:00

Today we have Posies and Petals guest posting with us!

Winter is a great time to curl up with a great book. I relish that quality time with my kids and recently we've had quite alot of it. So I asked Will to bring me his two favorite books, I wasn't surprised that he couldn't stop at two. First he brought me these two....

then these....

and lastly this one.

They are all fantastic books that I have enjoyed in my classroom as well as my living room. Today we spent a little extra time with Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. We made a tree and used our letter magnets to retell the story. First Will and I, then Will and his dad, then lastly Will told the story to his sister Caroline, who sat and watched in amazement.

Then we just happened to have some animal crackers shaped like letters, so we acted it out again over snack! I love when things work out like that. Tomorrow, we will look for number magnets to act out Chicka Chicka 123.

What are your favorite books right now? For yourself and your kids? I always love hearing new titles!

Chinese New Year - Lantern Printable

2012-01-23T17:38:00.001-05:00

Today is Chinese New Year!! 2012 is the year of the dragon

To celebrate I have a fun printable to share with you! Chinese Paper Lanterns

Download in black & white
Download in colour

1. Print out the lantern. You can print off the black and white version if printing onto red paper, or if you want to make a fun colouring activities with the kids.

2. Cut out the lanterns. Cut along the solid black lines, and fold along the dashed black lines.

3. Starting at one end of the lantern, glue or tape each of the tabs onto the next panel of the lantern. Keep going all the way around the lantern, for the top and bottom tabs. When you reach the end, glue the last tabs onto the first panel.

4. Punch two holes at the top of the lantern (where indicated with black dots). Thread the lanterns onto some string, or onto some fairy lights like I did. Do not place a flame inside the lanterns.

EtsyKids Design Challenge: It's time to Vote!

2012-01-22T10:19:00.001-05:00

It's time to vote for your favorite item! Voting will be open until January 27th. This month, EtsyKids members were challenged to create an exciting new item based on a theme "Love & Kisses". We received a bunch of fantastic entries from some talented people. Please vote for your favourite item from the list below.

{{ HUGS!! }} from Us to You

2012-01-21T17:21:00.002-05:00

'cause it's National Hug day and, well ... we think you're pretty great!

Safe in Your Arms, by MossyRockDesigns

XOXO Valentine Cupcake Wrappers, by YourlittleCupcake

Tree Hugger Cinch Backpacks, by TheSewingLoft

'Owl Hug Ya' 11x14 acrylic on canvas, by FairyDawn

Personalized Great Bear Hug Teacher Notepad, by kindlivingdesigns

Hug Me Valentine hairclip, by fortheloveofzebra

Salt Paintings

2012-01-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

By: Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

Winter hasn’t snowed us in yet in Maryland (we’re still waiting!), but we have had several windy, chilly days that have kept my son and I inside and looking for things to do. A couple of days ago, I found directions for salt painting in a science activity book I bought my son (he’s 4) for Christmas.

Man, did they come out cool!

Here’s what you need:

Paint (I used poster paint)
Brushes
Heavy paper (I used cardstock)
Large-grain salt (I used Kosher salt)

First, pick a couple of paint colors. We used purple, yellow, green, and glittery red, but I’d recommend darker colors so the effect of the salt shows up well. (It got lost a little on the yellow.) Then, water down the paint so it’s fairly thin.

The instructions I had showed dragons, so my son decided he wanted to make dinosaurs. We drew our dinosaurs in pencil on the cardstock and painted over them. We didn’t worry about staying inside the lines; I cut them out after they were dry. Put a lot of paint on your drawing. You want lots of liquid for the salt to soak up.

While the paint is still wet, sprinkle lots of salt all over your artwork. Set aside to dry.

When the paint is dry, brush off the salt grains, and you’ll see that wherever there was a salt grain, you’ll see a darker patch of paint. If you’d like, add detail to your drawing with a marker. We cut our drawings out and mounted them on black construction paper.

Here’s the science bit: The salt crystals absorb the water from the paint around it, leaving dark spots where the crystals were because there was more paint there and elsewhere on the paper. Try larger-grain salt for bigger dark spots!

Introducing Booger & Tash!

2012-01-19T06:30:00.006-05:00

Today we introduce you to Vickie from Booger & Tash!

Q: What motivated you to start your shop?

I first started my shop when my youngest daughter (my middle child) was 2 1/2, I was looking for children & baby items that were cute, but also trendy & unique, and I just wasn't able to find that in the stores/ malls. I knew that I could make the things that I wanted & I figured that others were probably looking for the same things too, so I opened my shop.

Q: What is the story behind your shop name?
My shop - Booger & Tash is named after the nicknames that I call my daughters (Brianna - Booger, & Natasha - Tash)

Q: Do you have a favorite Etsy Shop (non-child related)?
Oooh, there are so many great shops on etsy! A few of my (non-child related) favorites are http://www.etsy.com/shop/JennifersJewels where I get my labels, http://www.etsy.com/shop/goosegrease so cute!, http://www.etsy.com/shop/sunshineceramics made the most beautiful christmas ornaments for me a couple of years ago, http://www.etsy.com/shop/PolishedProductions?ref=ss_profile makes lovely frames, http://www.etsy.com/shop/shopsaplingpress her stuff just makes me laugh!, http://www.etsy.com/shop/scratchandsniff?ref=ss_profile Lou made me a very cherished silhoutte of our late dog & of course, my sister's new shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/MissVeraVintage?ref=ss_profile for vintage barbies

Q: What surprised you most about having your own craft / online shop?
Custom requests! I always find it surprising when someone requests something that doesn't really fall into a catagory of my shop, I recently made a couple of pairs of suspenders for a bride's fiance for their wedding, & a minky pillowcase/ sleepingbag for a puppy to sleep in!

Q: What do you find most challenging about being an Etsy seller?
Shipping costs & delivery times. I live in Canada, shipping from here is very expensive & often takes 2 - 3 weeks, especially if the order has to cross the border.

Q: What's your personal philosophy behind your shop / products?
I want to make items that are modern & hip, but also will stand the test of time. I want the customer to know that I take pride in every item I make & choose the best supplies, from the fabrics to packaging.

Q: How would someone (other then you) describe you?
People I know, would describe me as calm, patient, even tempered & kind.

Q: What music do you have on while you are creating?
I don't, usually just the hum of the sewing machine & the sound of my son snoring in his highchair beside me :)

Q: What do you do when you aren't working?
Well, I have 3 young children (2 girls & a boy) so, when I'm not working, I'm usually driving them to school, library storytime, gymboree or playing with & taking care of them.

Q: Anything else you'd like to tell us or share?
I love that I have found Etsy (& EtsyKids Team) A place where I am free to sew/ create & meet new people. I love hearing about how customers use the items that I create, the stories behind custom requests & the pictures that customers share with me.

How to make cupcake toppers tutorial

2012-01-18T07:53:00.000-05:00

Today April of kidEprints has a lovely tutorial to share with our readers. kidEprints sells a variety of lovely printable tags including a lovely collection of valentine themed ones!

April has written a really useful tutorial on how to turn printables into cute cupcake toppers.

The first step is to print your digital file. If printing with a JPEG image, treat it like a digital photo and try not to use any margins. Photo printers are the only printers that will allow for borderless or no margin printing. If you need to use margins, use the smallest size available (usually 1/8 inch).

Next, using your paper punch, centre the image and punch out a topper, repeat for all of them.

Place one topper face down and glue a lollipop stick to the centre back. The best glues are thick and acid free, or you can use a hot glue gun. You can find lollipop sticks and most major craft stores.

Add a bit of glue around the outer edge of your topper and stick a second topper on top so your cupcake topper is double sided. Place in your cupcake and you're done!!

EtsyKids Design Challenge for January: Love and Kisses

2012-01-17T08:35:00.000-05:00

"Scattering Petals for Your Valentine" via here

"Love & kisses" is our challenge for January, picked by our last month's winner thatmoxiegirl & bisongirl. With Valentines day quickly approaching what a perfect theme for this months design challenge than love and kisses!

EtsyKids members will have until January 20th to submit their entries, and voting will be open to everybody from Friday, January 21st to Friday, January 27th. So, be sure to come back to the EtsyKids blog for a new post on the 21st to see all of the entries and VOTE! In the meantime, please click here to get a sneak peek at some exciting entries so far!

Introducing FiestaKids Boutique!

2012-01-12T06:30:00.002-05:00

Today we introduce you to Laura from FiestaKids Boutique!

What motivated you to start your shop?

I had always been searching for a "venue" to sell my crafts on-line and had tried others but then I found Etsy and thought I'd give it a try; my first item sold within 24 hrs and that was two years ago.

What is the story behind your shop name?

Fiesta means a celebration, a party, something that everyone enjoys and little kids are always excited about.

Do you have a favorite Etsy Shop (non-child related)?

Many, many shops, it is hard to choose one, but one of my favorites is http://www.etsy.com/shop/wendymarsh I have bought several items from her, 100% beautiful.

What surprised you most about having your own craft / online shop?

That I get to meet and connect with people from all over the world, that is so fantastic!! I love so much what I do, that I found my true passion in life!

What do you find most challenging about being an Etsy seller?

Being unique, everyone is so talented!!

What's your personal philosophy behind your shop / products?

To make items that I would use on my own kids, if they were little or I had grandchildren :o) or that I would love to receive as a gift. I try to keep happy clients so they feel confident with their purchases and come back again and again.

How would someone (other then you) describe you?

Witty, always creative, hard working and very passionate about her business.

What music do you have on while you are creating?

Depends on the "day of the month" (LOL!!)

What do you do when you aren't working?

I actually don´t call it work, I would do this even if I had not opened a shop. The few hours of the day that I am not doing anything related to my shop, I work on my garden, I visit my family or friends, I also love working on new projects for my home; cooking at our family gatherings; watching the CA sunsets!!

Anything else you'd like to tell us or share?

These last 2 years have been so awesome for me, I have met so many wonderful people, have learned a lot about networking, joining a team, maintaining a business, etc that I only wish for more of the same and to anyone who is not sure if the time is right for them to try it, I can only say JUST TRY IT here on Etsy!

Kim Siebold Studios steps into the publishing world

2012-01-07T04:30:00.001-05:00

As far back as I can remember, I have always been interested in drawing and illustrating. I remember many days of coloring with my crayons, writing stories, illustrating and creating books. I recall wining poster contests in grade school and actually getting in trouble for focusing on “only the art”. So it was only natural that I went to college for a B.F.A. in Graphic Design and also picked up a B.A. in Communications. I always knew that art, drawing and design was my passion. After college, I pursued my career working at many ad agencies, design firms, owning my own businesses and always dabbled in my enterpenurial spirit whether I was working full-time for myself or for a company. As my children grew older and didn’t need as much “parental attention” (code phrase for wanting to hang out with their friends more than their parents), I fulfilled my extra time with illustrating and creating art.

I learned about Etsy in early 2009 and thought this would be a great way to showcase my work and make some extra money is the process. I opened my shop (Kim Siebold Studios) in November 2009 and within a few weeks, I had been contacted by a wonderful woman who is now my literary agent. She was inspired by one polar bear drawing on my Etsy shop. Shortly thereafter, I was offerred a book deal based on this illustration. Over the course of 2010, I learned about the exciting world of publishing and worked on finalizing the illustration for Starry Night, Hold Me Tight. The final book was release in October of 2011. It is so exciting to see my book in stores such as Barnes and Noble and Pottery Barn Kids, as well as many of the .com shops such as Amazon and Target.

Starry Night, Hold Me Tight is a book written for ages 4 and up.

Gather your little cubs and snuggle up for bedtime with Starry Night, Hold Me Tight. It is a story full of humor, love, and motherly wisdom, intermixed with wintry activities such as sledding and making snow angels. In this charming picture book, Baby Bear learns how to share with friends, put away his toys, and that throwing snowballs at Momma Bear is not polite! With warm, lovable verse and simplistic, adorable illustrations, this book will turn nighttime routines into treasured time together.

You can read more about this book and download colorsheets and activies at starrynightbook.com! Follow me as well on Facebook.

So my Etsy success story didn’t just end with one book, but two books! My personalized alphabet animal illustrations resulted in a second book offer. ABC Now You See Me will be release in March/April 2012. ABC, Now You See Me is a padded-cover introduction to the alphabet features a sequence of endearing animals that peek out from beneath interactive flaps and correspond to the letters they accompany, including an Alligator, a Bunny and more. I cannot wait to see the final product! It is available at this time for pre-ordering on many .coms such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble. As it comes closer to the release date, I will find out which stores will carry it. You can follow this book for the latest information on Facebook. Wouldn't a personalized print and a copy of this book make the best present ever?

I welcome you to check out my website and see how Etsy has inspired my work, and my successes. You can also follow me on Twitter and Facebook. I am now working as a freelancer in the design community while focusing on my illustrations. I have several projects in the works and am open for more opportunities to come my way. Thanks Etsy!

January 2012 EtsyKids Desktop Background

2012-01-06T08:49:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I like to change my desktop background all the time! I love to see something different every month, and I also love to find ones that have a calendar on them as a quick reminder.

So I thought what fun to have an EtsyKids Team calendar desktop background!! Each month featuring 20 items from our members!!
We have it available in a couple of different screen resolutions. Download the one for your screen below

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Future calendars will be released on the 1st of each month, so be sure to come back to see what we have for February!

Introducing Applesauce Crafts!

2012-01-05T08:48:00.001-05:00

Today we introduce you to Amber from Applesauce Crafts!

What motivated you to start your shop?

I started sewing dresses and blankets for my daughter. When I posted some pictures up on Facebook, a bunch of friends said how cute they were and that I should sell them. So I made some things and started a shop. It's been two years now.

What is the story behind your shop name?

I was trying to think of something cute and it was just not coming to me. Then I started writing a description for my bibs and there was something about "does your kid have applesauce all over?" (something my then 1 yr old had on her all the time!) It just clicked--Applesauce Crafts!

Do you have a favorite Etsy Shop (non-child related)?

My favorite non kid etsy shop is probably Sweet Shop Vintage or Matte Art

What surprised you most about having your own craft / online shop?

It surprised me that I was good at it. I have never played an instrument or a sport, I never had a hobby or anything. So to actually have people like my stuff and buy things from me made me feel really awesome!

What do you find most challenging about being an Etsy seller?

For me, it's challenging balancing motherhood with being a shop owner. I would love to sit and drink coffee and sew all day long, but I have to go in spurts between breakfast, school run, nap time, sick kids, etc.

What's your personal philosophy behind your shop / products?

My philosophy is that babies don't need babyish things. I do buy some things in the kid section, or made for kids, but mostly it's just by what looks good, what I like to look at. I let the fabrics jump out at me and I know if I love it, someone else is going to love it, too.

How would someone (other then you) describe you?

I think they'd say I'm a loud, bossy, sassy lady that has cute kids that always have a mess on their faces :)

What music do you have on while you are creating?

I usually have the Bloc Party Pandora station on, but sometimes my daughter will request Abba.

What do you do when you aren't working?

When I'm not working I'm taking care of my almost one yr old Otis, and my 3.5 yr old Ingrid. They keep me super busy, but luckily they both are used to mama being in front of the sewing machine or having a pile of fabric out. In fact, the other day my daughter had some of my scraps and was playing fabric store. I'm totally rubbing off on her!

Anything else you'd like to tell us or share?

I am just so thrilled to be part of a DIY community! I love that I have made friends through etsy, people I've never actually met but we connect online and trade ideas or whatever. Having an etsy shop has really given me something other than just being a mom--I know so many people lose themselves in their kids and I am glad I have something to call my own and give me a purpose other than wiping up snot :)

Football fans come in all shapes and sizes

2012-01-03T16:53:00.000-05:00

All-in-Two One-Size Cloth Diaper by mamamade

Boys Hooded Towel by inkydinkdesigns

Football Curtain Holdbacks by LittleElephantCo

Ribbon Ruffle Socks - any team colors by KPCreations

I ♥ Football Comfy Pants by babeagogo

Cheer School Spirit Bow by fortheloveofzebra

Hello 2012!!

2011-12-31T15:16:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to all our team members and blog readers!!!

For 2012 we have so many wishes and hopes. As a team we want to grow and welcome new members and make the Etsykids team bigger and better than ever!
We want to wish all the luck and success to our team members and hope you continue to work together as a team, so that we can make 2012 the greatest year yet!

EtsyKids Design Challenge: We have a Winner!

2011-12-29T14:00:00.000-05:00

This month we have a tie!!
Congratulations to the winner's of our Decembers's challenge, bisongirl & thatmoxiegirl!!

Spotted Owl Bison Booties Size 6 to 12 Months Baby

bisongirl sells some amazing and colorful booties for babies! Keep those little toes warm this winter!

Nightlight owl retro design

thatmoxiegirl has lots of other nightlight designs in her etsy shop too, and also some other nursery items.

It looks like everyone had great fun designing and creating owl an friend themed items for this months design challenge. We had some lovely items entered and thank you to everyone who participated and voted, especially during this busy seasonal period.
Next months theme will be announced in the coming weeks.

Thank you letter printable

2011-12-24T13:22:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Steffi of Toastie Studio

I have to admit I am terrible at sending out thank you cards after Christmas. Half the time I send them out so late I should just ring and say thank you.
This year I saw in the shops some thank you cards for kids and knew I wanted to design my own. I think having a fun design and letter format can make writing thank you letters more fun for kids! So here are two designs for a thank you printable.

You get two letters per sheet of paper. Simply print at 100% scale and trim down.

Download: Red Girl / Blue Boy

I also have other thank you card printables in my etsy shop, including ones like this where you can design the character and colour scheme yourself.

Easy Holiday Truffles

2011-12-23T09:17:00.000-05:00

By Cori of Peace,Baby! Batiks

I love making sweets during the holidays, and this year, Idecided to make mostly truffles and cake pops. I’ll be starting with theserecipes, which are two of my favorites: Oreo Truffles and Chocolate Chip CookieDough Truffles. Add a lollipop stick for a fun treat!

Oreo Truffles

This recipe comes from a friend in my MOMS Club. Super,super easy. Start them now, and they’ll be ready to eat in just a couple ofhours.

16 oz. package of Oreo cookies, crushed in food processor(or in a Ziploc bag with a wooden spoon)
8 oz. package of cream cheese, softened

Mix the cookies and cream cheese together. Form into balls (Iused a melon baller for size), and place on wax paper on a cookie sheet. Freezeuntil set. (I left mine in about two hours.)

Melt chocolate (white or semisweet), and dip the frozentruffles into the chocolate. While the chocolate is still soft, decorate withsprinkles, colored sugar, etc. – a great way for kids to help out!

Cookie Dough Truffles

This recipe comes from SpareTime Baker, the blog of a talented baker friend. I recently started followingher on Pinterest, and the baked goods she shares there are just sinful! Thesetruffles are always a hit, and my son loves them because I let him try the rawcookie dough. No eggs!

1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2- 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1-1/2 pounds semisweet chocolate candy coating, chopped

Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Addflour, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla; mix well. Stir in the chocolatechips and walnuts, if using. Shape into 1-inch balls; place on waxedpaper-lined baking sheets. Loosely cover and freeze for 1-2 hours or untilfirm. (The dough softens quickly at room temperature so it works best if theyare frozen, not just chilled in the refrigerator.)

In a microwave safe bowl, melt candy coating, stirring oftenuntil smooth. Dip balls in coating; place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets.Refrigerate until firm, about 15 minutes. If desired, melt remaining candycoating and drizzle over candies. Store in refrigerator, not that they’ll lastthat long!

(Thanks to my friend WB for this awesome photo.)

Now, try to limit yourself to just one. Or two.

Happy holidays!

Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap

2011-12-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Danni of Alphabet Emporium.

How many rolls of wrapping paper do you have stashed in the back corner of the closet, or in a plastic tub under the bed? Birthday, baby shower, wedding and holiday paper - a different roll for each event, each theme. It's expensive and not all city recycling centers will take glossy gift wrap.

EtsyKids Team member, Alphabet Emporium, has a couple of simple, genius ways to wrap packages with eco-friendly supplies; many you can put into practice this holiday season.

Use 100% recycled butcher paper (craft paper). It works for every occasion, is totally gender neutral, and a 200 yard roll wraps a lot of packages! At $6 a roll (hardware section of your local Wal-mart), it's hard to find anything more economical. Butcher paper is a great eco-friendly alternative to wrapping paper and is very versatile, creating a beautiful canvas for Christmas wrapping.

Have your children help you decorate the presents by coloring or painting the paper. Embellish the boxes by splurging on gorgeous ribbon, using wide strips of burlap or fabric, or multiple strands of string or yarn. In lieu of gift tags, stamp the recipients initials or name all over their boxes.
Not everything comes in a box, or fits in a box, and for those items gift bags are essential. If you want to be extra eco-conscious, buy material from the local craft store and sew draw string bags to use over and over again. I stamped bags with the numbers 1-25 and place some of the bags on the tree as decorations.
I like to embellish my gifts with gifts, a kind of teaser that will get the recipient excited about what's inside. So if the gift is a cookbook, buy a set of measuring spoons and string them through the ribbon you are using to embellish the box. Or say it's a gift for someone who likes to sew; you can buy a measuring tape and use the actual measuring tape as ribbon. For my son (see packages wrapped in picture above) I used an infinity scarf (middle package - red) I made, a mask (top left), my daughter get's hair accessories (top right) and some felt food (middle - red strawberries). There are endless ways to embellish gifts with little gifts, and with a little forethought and a pinch of imagination, you'll come up with the perfect little addition.

When done simply and done well, eco-friendly gift wrap is a chic way to personalize each gift you are giving in an extra special and individualized way with being easy on the pocket book and the environment. It's that extra step that makes a difference.

A huge thanks to Danni of AlphabetEmporium for sharing her tips with us. You can find Danni after the holidays on Etsy at AlphabetEmporium and on facebook.

Penguin Soft Toy Tutorial

2011-12-21T14:00:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Steffi of Toastie Studio

I love Penguins :D
They are so pretty and happy, at the moment on the BBC is a series "Frozen Planet" and they had an awesome episode about penguins, hehehe rock stealing penguins.
So I thought I would make a new felt soft toy tutorial for a penguin! He is similar in size to my little lamb and chicken tutorials.
And he could make a last minute stocking filler, or a craft for kids to do. He only took me 30 mins to make!

Materials:
Black/navy felt
Orange/yellow felt
Toy Stuffing
Pattern (download here)

How to:
First print off the pattern and cut out all the pieces from felt.

Take one body piece and sew on the white tummy, eyes and beak. Add some extra detail to the eyes by sewing stars with white thread.

Lay the other body piece down, and place the flippers and feet in place, then the front body piece face up. Pin around the edges.

Sew around the edge of the penguin, leaving a small gap for stuffing. Stuff and sew close the opening.

EtsyKids Design Challenge: It's time to Vote!

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's time to vote for your favorite item! Voting will be open until December 29th, and the winner announced on December 30th.

This month, EtsyKids members were challenged to create an exciting new item based on the theme "Owls and Friends". We received a bunch of fantastic entries from some talented people!

Please note your favorite from the list below and place your vote. You can also view each entry in detail by clicking on items image or HERE.

Celebrating Winter

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

By Cori of Peace,Baby! Batiks

In addition to celebrating Christmas, my family carves out alittle time each December to mark the Winter Solstice, the first day of winter.Many years – like this one – the Solstice falls on my son’s birthday, so wecelebrate it the day before or after. This year, the Winter Solstice isThursday, Dec. 22.

The first day of winter is the shortest day of the year.Gradually, until the Summer Solstice in June, the days will get longer andlonger. Ancient peoples celebrated this time of year because they knew thelight was returning. It gave them hope for the spring.

We find inspiration in the changing of the seasonsthroughout the year. After the chill and growing dark of fall, we look forwardto the return of the warmth and green of spring, even though there’s a lot ofwinter yet to pass. Celebrating Solstice keeps our family in tune with thenatural patterns of the Earth.

Here are some of the ways we mark Solstice in our home.There are lots of ways to get kids involved.

Feeding the Birds.There’s little for birds to eat in the suburbs during the cold winter months,so we set out bird feeders. This year, we’re using pinecones collectedthroughout the year and covering them with peanut butter and birdseed. They’rehanging in the tree in front of our house.

Sharing with Others.We also make it a point to share with others, and the past several years, we’vedone this on Solstice by taking some of our holiday cookies to our neighbors.It’s fun to visit with them and see their trees, and we get to know the peoplein our neighborhood.

Look for Winter.If the weather cooperates, we like to walk around the neighborhood with our sonand look for signs on winter: bare trees, snow, winter birds and animals, etc.It’s also a fun time to check out the decorations on our neighbors’ houses.

Decorations. AYule log is the centerpiece of our Christmastime table. We light it beforedinner and talk about the good and bad things that happened in the past yearand the goals we have for the new year. Regrets from the past year are burnedin a burning bowl. Our son is about to turn 4, and last year, he was able toparticipate in this part of the day with us by talking about what he thinks arethe blessings in his life.

Special Food.Much of what we eat on Solstice is inspired by the sun. The past several years,we’ve ordered pizza for lunch – it’s round like the sun! For dinner, I cook thesame thing every year. We’re vegetarian, so the main dish is a Quorn roast in anorange-garlic juice marinade (recipe below), but the original recipe calls forusing the marinade on turkey. I serve a winter salad of spinach, oranges, driedcranberries, and walnuts with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing, and we enjoycookies for dessert. I also like to make mulled wine (Gluvein) or cider.

After dinner, we each get to open one small gift, usuallysomething associated with light or winter.

Orange-Garlic Marinade
(Modified from The Wicca Cookbook)

1c orange juice
1/4c butter, melted
3-4 cloves garlic
Salt and pepper

Combine ingredients, and pour over meat substitute or meat.Use a brush to baste occasionally.

Cosmetic Bag Tutorial

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a great quick last minute handmade gift idea!
Cosmetic Bag Tutorial Shared by: Nana Brown's

I love it when I find something great and get that bolt of inspiration that fuels me and keeps me creating.

I was wandering around a shop in town and saw these fabulous placemats. It was love at first sight, but we don’t use placemats on our kitchen table. Instead, I had a vision of something fabulous and useful instead, a new cosmetic bag. My old one has been with me for more years than I can remember and is in a very sorry state. It needed replacement and I was inspired - what a great combination!

I bought several placemats made with all kinds of different fabrics and interfacing. I found the easiest ones to work with had lighter interfacing in them, otherwise it makes it too hard to get the zipper in.

Here is an easy tutorial to make your own cosmetic bag from a placemat.
Placemat Cosmetic Bag Tutorial

If you love the way they look but do not want to make your own they can be purchased in my Etsy shop too.

To visit more from Nana Brown's: Shop & Blog

Kanzashi Flowers Tutorial

2011-12-18T06:00:00.004-05:00

Kanzashi flowers are a Japanese art form that are traditionally made with honotai silk. Kanzashi are typically worn as decorative hair ornaments in traditional Japanese hairstyles. Use your kanzashi flowers on hair clips or headbands as they were traditionally worn by geishas. Or put them on hats, jackets or tshirts. You can also make kanzashi flowers out of paper. Make a sweet bouquet or wreath.

Fabric (preferably a woven one that is thicker material)

Scissors or rotary cutter

Ruler or cutting guide

Iron and board

Straight pins

Needle and thread

Hot glue gun or fabric glue

Buttons, beads, embellishments

Cut your fabric into 4" squares. I recommend 3" ones if your going to use them for girl's hair accessories, but I'm making mine to embellish hats. Each square is one petal of your flower and each flower needs 5 petals.

Use your iron to press each square in half to make a triangle.

Next you're going to fold your petals. You will want to have your pins close by. With the top of your triangle pointing away from you, fold the left corner up to the top, bisecting it in half.

Then fold the right corner up to meet the left one, making a smaller square. Holding those folds in place, flip your new small square over keeping the raw fabric edges facing away from you so it is oriented like a diamond.

Fold the left and right corners evenly towards each other so that they touch and meet in the middle.

Fold the fabric together from right to left, sandwiching the points in the center.

Use a straight pin to push through your petal sandwich in the center, making sure to catch the 2 points in the middle.

Repeat the process until all your petals are folded and ready.

Using a sharp pair of scissors, cut the raw edged tail off of your petals. You want to cut close to the pin, but not exactly on top of it. Do not remove the pins yet.

Using your first cut petal as a guide, cut the rest of your petals so that they are the same length.

Use your needle and thread to sew 5 petals together. You want the needle to pass through where your pin is, so that it runs through all the folds and the center points sandwiched inside the petal. Remove the straight pins as you insert the needle.

I usually stack all 5 petals on the needle at once to keep the petals folded and then use a pair of pliers to pull the needle through all the layers of fabric. Then tie a knot to secure a loop of thread. You do not want to tie your loop tightly, otherwise you will not be able to position your petals and open them up properly.

Move your petals around so that they are in a flower shape. Use your thumb to press open the outer point of each petal.

Using your hot glue or fabric glue, put a small amount of glue between each petal to keep the petals from shifting around too much when in use. I also put some glue into the center of the petals from the back side of the flower. Next use a button, beads, covered button, or other embellishment to attach to the center of your kanzashi flower. I sew beads onto felt cut with pinking sheers for these flowers.

I'd love to see pics of what ever you make. Email them to thatmoxiegirl@gmail.com

Shared by: That Moxie Girl
Etsy shop: www.thatmoxiegirl.etsy.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thatmoxiegirldesigns

Blog: www.blog.twocrazypirates.com

Make Your Own Fabric Labels

2011-12-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

Giving handmade is an important aspect of the Holidays for many EtsyKids Team members. We are making gifts, purchasing from local stores and purchasing from many of our EtsyKids Team friends in order to have a handmade holiday.

Recently, EtsyKids Team member, SnugglyMonkeyCo, shared a tutorial on how to make fabric labels. How perfect the holiday season! Her simple instructions will make it easy to create custom labels to put on your handmade gifts ... like a scarf for dad, tea towels for grandma, skirt for sister, blanket for baby.

Ouchie Pouch Hot / Cold Therapy Pouch

Here are Claudia's instructions: Whether you are making something as a gift or a new item for your shop, I think these labels are the perfect finishing touch for a handcrafted item. Enjoy and please let me know if you have any questions!

What you need:

Sew-on Printable Cotton Fabric Sheets
Printer
Heat-n-Bond Iron On Adhesive (see notes below for which kind to get)
Ruler, Cutting Mat, Rotary Cutter (Or Fabric Scissors)
Iron

Step 1: Design
Start off by designing your labels with your favorite word processor/photo editing software. If you haven't checked out Picnik yet, you should! It is a fantastic photo editing site with lots of cool features, and the best part is that the free part of the site can often times be all that you need.

Once you have your design, decide how big you want your labels to be and then lay out the labels using your word processor onto an 8.5"x11" standard page. For example, my labels are about 2" wide by 0.5" tall. I set my page up in the Landscape orientation and have 4 columns with 14 labels in each column, so I get a total of 56 labels per page.

Step 2: Print
Grab your Printable Cotton Fabric Sheets. You can buy these at your local fabric store (look in the "Quilting Notions" area). Typically, they cost about $10 for 5 sheets. There are lots of different brands available. You can usually find them in either white or beige, sew-on or iron-on. Pick whichever color you think would work best with your design. For this tutorial I use the "Sew-On" kind, but you could use the iron-on sheets and skip steps 3 & 4. I will say that from my own experience, the iron-on sheets do not have as strong of a bond as the Heat-n-Bond will give you. That is why I iron on my own adhesive instead.

Follow the directions on the package for printing out your labels and heat setting the ink. If you are going to be putting your labels on something that can be washed (such as a quilt or clothes), I recommend following the instructions for colorfasting the fabric sheets as well.

Step Three: Iron-on Adhesive
I find it difficult to keep my labels exactly where I want them on my items when I try to stitch them on at this point. So, I like to put some iron-on adhesive on the backs of my labels first. Then, I iron the label in place and topstitch. I find that this helps me get a nicer, cleaner look in the end.

Once your fabric sheet is ready to use, grab your Iron-on Adhesive. You have two options with Heat-n-Bond: Sewable (Purple package) or Ultra-Hold (Red package). If you only want to Iron On your labels with no stitching, then go with the Ultra-Hold.

If you want to topstitch your labels in place, go with the Sewable. Do not sew through the Ultra-hold - trust me - I learned this the hard way. You will get adhesive inside your sewing machine, and it will screw up your bobbin tension or worse. (And the money you are saving by making your own labels will go to getting your machine repaired!)

Cut an 8.5"x11" piece of the Heat-n-Bond and following the instructions on the packaging iron it onto the back of your labels.

{Tip: Put an old t-shirt down on the top of your ironing board before you iron on the adhesive. That way if your label sheet and the adhesive sheet do not exactly line up, the excess adhesive will get on the old-shirt instead of our ironing board cover. And, your husband won't get upset when he goes to iron his work shirts and ends up with an ugly, sticky glue mark on his shirt....}

Step Four: Cutting Your Labels
The final step is cutting out your labels. I find it easiest to do this with a rotary cutter and ruler, but it is also possible to do it with regular fabric scissors as well. I am just a bit challenged at cutting nice, neat straight lines with a scissor, so I use the rotary cutter.

Once you have your labels cut out, all you need to do is iron them on to your item and stitch them in place.

Eye pillows with removable covers.

A big thanks to Claudia for sharing her tutorial with us. Whether you are looking for a new ID Badge Reel or Lanyard to dress up your work wardrobe, an Eye Pillow to help you relax after a long day or an eco-friendly Ouchie Pouch (Hot Cold Therapy Pack) for your little one, you will find all of these and much more at SnugglyMonkeyCo! You can see more of Claudia's tutorials and see examples of her work on her blog.

3 Simple Holiday Crafts From 1 Snowflake Punch!

2011-12-16T06:00:00.002-05:00

Shared by: Nikki, In Stitches

Christmas is coming...fast.

Faster than I think I'm ready for!

And if you're like me, you're starting to realize you have way too many things to do, and not nearly enough time to get them all done.

This is crunch time!

Time to keep things simple. Time to get the most out of every minute.

The kiddos and I sat down earlier this week with a pile of scrap paper and a few yards of ribbon, some glitter paint, and a Martha Stewart Snowflake paper punch. Less than 45 minutes later, we had three projects complete...and that's what I call getting the most of every minute!

We decorated our ornament tree.

We made garland and draped it around the trees on our front porch.

And we made super cute ornaments, that could also double as the perfect "little something extra" to embellish your gift wrapping...all from that pile of scraps and one punch!

I'm sharing the super simple how-to's for the ornament tree and garland on All Things For Mom today, here. Stop by and take a peek!

The snowflake ornament how-to is below!

Enjoy,

Nikki, In Stitches

Materials:

*3/8" wide ribbon

*Scrapbook paper

*Glitter paint and paint brush (optional)

*Snowflake paper punch (The one I used is from Martha Stewart...and is probably on sale in your local large chain craft store right now!)

*Needle and thread

Directions:

1. Cut ribbon into 6" lengths. Fold over approximately 1 1/2" and use needle and thread to tack into place, creating a loop to hang your ornament.

2. Punch 5 snowflakes for each ornament. (We painted a few pieces of paper with glitter paint first. It's fun for the kiddos to just glob the paint on, and the brush strokes will dry clear! Just make sure your paper is completely dry before you punch your snowflakes!)

3. Use the needle and thread to attach your snowflakes to the ribbon!

PS...There's still time for more handmade holiday projects! Find even more inspiration in my ebook, Nikki, In Stitches - A Handmade Holiday! Here's a little peek at what's inside!

Paper Angel Printable Deocrations

2011-12-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Post shared by Toastie Studio

When I was little I remember making little paper angels with my parents to decorate the Christmas tree with. These little angels are fun to print and make with the children and let them decorate the tree with :)

Download the pdf version of the pattern here. (Please don't use the image below, it is low resolution so wont print out nicely!)
Print off the pdf onto paper or card stock and cut around the angels and slot them together.

If you love this printable check out my etsy shop in the new year as I add a whole range of fun printable's and party supplies.

EtsyKids Design Challenge for December: Owls and Friends!

2011-12-14T13:38:00.000-05:00

"Owls and Friends" is our challenge theme for December, picked by our last month's winner tzburps. We will feature an abundance of Owl and woodland friends items for kids. All hand made by our talented team members!

Owl Plushies by tzburps

EtsyKids members will have until Decebmer 20th to submit their entries, and voting will be open to everybody from Wednesday, December 21st to Thursday, December 29th. So, be sure to come back to the EtsyKids blog for a new post on the 21st to see all of the entries and VOTE! In the meantime, please click here to get a sneak peek at some exciting entries so far!

Bulletin Board Tutorial

2011-12-14T06:00:00.007-05:00

Bulletin Board Tutorial Shared by: Nana Brown's

Here is a great tutorial to give as a gift or to update your corkboard and hang your Holiday cards!

We finally got rid of all the old, beat up, college dorm style furniture from our home office. I am so excited to have an actual grown up desk that looks really nice and works the way I need it to.

Our old desk was quite tall and took up a bunch of the wall space. I had pictures and favourite quotes taped on it in various places where I would see them when I looked up from working.

The new desk is all one level which left me with a big, blank open space right above the computer monitor. It was really not very inspiring and I missed looking at my pictures. I looked at it for a few weeks and decided something had to be done so I enlisted my daughter to help me make a custom bulletin board for the space.

I was honestly not sure how it would turn out because we had never tried anything like that before.

We made 2 different bulletin boards. One hangs in my office above my desk and the other one hangs in my bedroom beside my bed. Both are filled with pictures, quotes, aspirations, inspirations, artwork from my daughter and other things I love to look at.

The project turned out really well and was easy and inexpensive too. It was easy enough for my 3 year old daughter to do and fast enough to keep her attention from start to finish (not including the drying time).

Supplies

1 framed, unpainted cork bulletin board in your desired size

Black acrylic paint

Little dish or plate for paint

Foam brushes

Glitter Glue

Spray adhesive

Piece of fabric the same size as the cork part on one of the bulletin boards

Directions

1. Prep the bulletin board by taping around the frame to keep the paint off the cork.

2. Paint the frame of the bulletin board black on the front & sides. My daughter had a great time helping with this. Allow to dry.

3. For the glitter glue board pick your favourite colors and make a pattern with the glue on the black frame. Allow to dry.

4. Spray frame with clear acrylic sealer. Allow to dry.

5. Remove tape and hang up your new bulletin board.

6. For the fabric bulletin board, after the acrylic paint has dried, spray the frame with clear acrylic sealer and allow to dry. Remove the tape.

7. Cut your piece of fabric to the same size as the cork part of the bulletin board. Try to get it as close to the same size as possible.

8. Following the instructions on the can, spray the cork board with spray adhesive and leave the time recommended for it to get tacky. Try not to get it on the frame – it will make it sticky until it dries.

9. Starting on one side and going slowly, smooth the fabric, right side up, onto the cork board. It is like putting on wallpaper, go slow and try not to get any bubbles between the fabric & the cork. I used a ruler to do this so I could make sure I got it all stuck down with no bubbles. It did take me a few tries so if it doesn’t work quite right the first time, be patient and try again.

10. Once it is all pressed down the way you like it, allow it to dry according to the instructions on the can. We left ours to dry overnight to make sure that it was good and dry.

11. Hang it up and fill it with your favourite things.

To visit more from Nana Brown's: Shop & Blog

Christmas Star Tutorial

2011-12-13T06:00:00.005-05:00

Post Shared by: Juny and Milo

My grandmother Teresina celebrated her 90th Birthday on December 6 and is probably one of the eldest EtsyKids Team fans. Having been an avid crafter for all her life and loving kids, she likes to browse the EtsyKids-Blog with me every time.

Because of her age and her hands not being as good as they have been, we’ve had to adapt our own crafting a bit and make it easier. For Christmas in the past years, we have always made paper stars, big and small, which we used to decorate just about everything.

This is my grandmother’s favorite model, which she is happy to share with the EtsyKids community. We never found out who the inventor of the star was, we learned it from a friend of ours who had noted it down on a piece of paper. It looks great, yet is very easy to make on your own or with the kids. Made in a big size it adorns walls, in smaller versions it makes a Christmas tree decoration, it can be used for garlands, and once, instead of paper we used plastic sheets and then sprayed the star with silver glitter for an outdoor decoration. It also looks beautiful crafted in felt.

I have included a step-by-step tutorial for you with photos, just follow the link. The star may look tricky, but after the first element you’ll continue making them in your sleep. It’s almost as relaxing as knitting.

The candy cane version is made using red and white striped paper, so simple, yet it looks cheery and festive.

Wishing you all a warm, happy and joyful Holiday Season,

Teresina, the grandmother

and

Nikky of http://www.junyandmilo.etsy.com/

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 12

2011-12-12T00:00:00.003-05:00

The Grand Finale is here!! To celebrate the end of the 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza, we will be giving away nine prizes to three lucky winners.

Second Prize:

1. Bard Designs

2. Jewelry Baby Bling Dara

Congrats to the winner gibson fam!

First Prize

1. Sweet Child of Mine Kids

2. Dragonfly Bowtique

3. Aunty Ann Designs -(This shop is also offering 15% off, so even if you don't win, you can save on some great toys. Just enter ETSYSALE15)

Congrats to the winner frawggie!

Grand Prize:

1. Leigh and Michael

2. Stitchin' Netka

3. zvijezda

4. Big Bridge Studios

Congrats to the winner jheimyg!

Thanks again to all participants and and to all of the shops that donated their wonderful items! Winners will be notified shortly!

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Bard Designs, Jewelry Baby Bling Dara, Sweet Child of Mine Kids, Dragonfly Bowtique, Aunty Ann Designs, Leigh and Michael, Stitchin' Netka, zvijezda, and Big Bridge Studios on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite items from these shops (leave a separate comment for each shop). With so many adorable items to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" the Facebook Pages for Bard Designs, Jewelry Baby Bling Dara, Sweet Child of Mine Kids, Dragonfly Bowtique, Leigh and Michael, Stitchin' Netka and Big Bridge Studios. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook pages and your Facebook Username.
Follow the blogs of Jewelry Baby Bling Dara, Sweet Child of Mine Kids, Dragonfly Bowtique, Stitchin' Netka, and Big Bridge Studios. Leave a comment indicating that you are following each blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 +.
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method and each shop.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 11

2011-12-11T00:00:00.002-05:00

It's Day 11! To prepare for the Grand Finale tomorrow, we have a ton of great prizes, and will have TWO winners! Today's winners will each receive THREE prizes and there are many chances to enter!

Up for grabs in Prize Pack #1 are:

1. lil b Designs

2. The Sewing Loft

3. Naptime Creations by mia4art

Prize Pack #2:

1. Chew Chew's Closet

2. AddieKat Boutique

3. Cuddle Hugs Boutique

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit lil b Designs, The Sewing Loft, Naptime Creations by mia4art, Chew Chew's Closet, AddieKat Boutique and Cuddle Hugs Boutique on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite items from these shops (leave a separate comment for each shop). With so many adorable items to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" the Facebook Pages for lil b Designs, The Sewing Loft, Naptime Creations by mia4art, Chew Chew's Closet, AddieKat Boutique and Cuddle Hugs Boutique. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook pages and your Facebook Username.
Follow the blogs of lil b Designs, The Sewing Loft, Naptime Creations by mia4art, Leave a comment indicating that you are following each blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 +.
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winners are:

Prize Pack #1

Congrats to katelin!

Prize Pack #2

Congrats to Tutus & Tea Parties! Both winners will be contacted soon to claim their prizes. Thanks to all who participated, and join us tomorrow for an awesome Grand Finale!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 10

2011-12-10T00:00:00.002-05:00

Day 10 is full of excitement! Today's winner will receive FOUR prizes and quadruple the chances to enter! Up for grabs are an adorable jungle bib from Quilted Hugs Bibs, a keychain from Hi Mamma, a set of 8 Christmas gift tags from LuckyLu Creations, and a $20 gift certificate to My Sweet Sunshine! All of these would be great for Christmas gifts!

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Quilted Hugs Bibs, Hi Mamma, LuckyLu Creations, and My Sweet Sunshine on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite items from these shops (leave a separate comment for each shop for double entries!). With so many keychains, bibs, changing pads, cards and dresses to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" the Facebook Pages for Quilted Hugs Bibs, Hi Mamma Designs, LuckyLu Creations and My Sweet Sunshine. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook pages and your Facebook Username.
Follow the Hi Mamma Designs blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 +.
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to Angie Alford! Thanks to all who participated, and join us for lots more prizes tomorrow!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 9

2011-12-09T00:00:00.003-05:00

It's Day 9 already, and it's another double day! Today's winner will receive two prizes and double the chances to enter! Up for grabs are an adorable applique reindeer shirt from Baby Chic Creations and an awesome toy car caddy roll from 2 Sprouts Stitchery. Both of these would make great Christmas gifts.

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Baby Chic Creations and 2 Sprouts Stitchery on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite items from these shops (leave a separate comment for each shop for double entries!). With so many toys, bibs, changing pads and pillows to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" the Facebook Pages for Baby Chic Creations and 2 Sprouts Stitchery. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook pages and your Facebook Username.
Subscribe to the 2 Sprouts Stitchery blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 + (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to formy2kids You will be contacted shortly with instructions to claim your prizes. Thanks to all who participated and please join us tomorrow for another fabulous giveaway!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 8

2011-12-08T00:00:00.004-05:00

Day 8 is bound to be great! Today's winner will receive two prizes and double the chances to enter! Up for grabs are an adorable stuffed owl from Applesauce Crafts and an awesome sock monkey from AuntyAnn Designs! Both of these would make great Christmas gifts.

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Applesauce Crafts and AuntyAnn Designs on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite items from these shops (leave a separate comment for each shop for double entries!). With so many toys, bibs, changing pads and pillows to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" Applesauce on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Subscribe to the Applesauce Crafts blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 + (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to Tricia @ SweeterThanSweets! You will be contacted shortly with instructions to claim your prizes. Thanks to all who participated and please join us tomorrow for another fabulous giveaway!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 7

2011-12-07T00:00:00.004-05:00

Day 7 is here! Today's prize is a gorgeous tunic top from Harmony Girls Clothing!

The winner can choose from sizes 2/3, 4/5, or 6/7

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Harmony Girls Clothing on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from this shop. With so many dresses, skirts, tops and accessories to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" Harmony Girls Clothing on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the EtsyKids blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 + (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to David! You will be contacted shortly with instructions to claim your prize.

Thanks to all who participated and please join us tomorrow for another fabulous giveaway!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 6

2011-12-06T00:00:00.004-05:00

Day 6 is here! Today's prize is a personalized Christmas photo card from Inky Pinky Paperie!

The winner can choose from several card designs seen here. You will send your pictures to Inky Pinky Paperie, and she will create your personalized card and send you the digital copy that you can have printed at the place of your choice. If you choose, Inky Pinky Paperie can print the cards and mail them to you, and is offering $10 off with a minimum purchase of 25 cards (envelopes included) to the winner.

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Inky Pinky Paperie on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from their shop. With so many cards and invitations to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" Inky Pinky Paperie on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the EtsyKids blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the blog.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 + (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Stacy Wilson! You will be contacted shortly with more details. Thanks to everybody who participated and join us tomorrow for another great prize!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 5

2011-12-05T00:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Day 5 of the Extravaganza! Today's prize is an adorable red and black tulle magic wand from Tutu Rocks Designs!

This fun wand would be a great stocking stuffer for an imaginative child!

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Tutu Rocks Designs on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from . With so many tutus, dresses, wands and hats to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" Tutu Rocks Designs on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the Tutu Rocks Designs blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the blog and your Blogger Username.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only ages 18 + (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each comment counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to Thelma Gail! You will be contacted shortly with instructions to claim your prize.

Thanks to all who participated and please join us tomorrow for another fabulous giveaway!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 4

2011-12-04T00:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to Day 4 of the Extravaganza! Today's prize is a beautiful red window sun catcher star courtesy of Harvest Moon by Hand!

This hand-crafted origami star would be a beautiful addition to your Christmas decor!

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Harvest Moon by Hand on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from . With so many beautiful window stars, felt toys, Waldorf dolls and papercrafts to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" Harvest Moon by Hand on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the Harvest Moonby Hand blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the
blog and your Blogger Username.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each reply counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to krafterskorner! You will be contacted shortly. Thanks to all who participated, and join us tomorrow for your chance to win another great prize!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 3

2011-12-03T00:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to Day 3 of the Extravaganza! Today's prize is a wooden toy van courtesy of My Father's Hands, LLC!

This hand-crafted bare wood toy is a great "green" gift for anybody who is concerned about harmful chemicals found in most commercially made toys.

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit My Father's Hands, LLC on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from . With so many hand-crafted natural wooden toys to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" My Father's Hands LLC on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the EtsyKids blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the
blog and your Blogger Username.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each reply counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to Tiny Stitches! You will be contacted shortly. Thanks to everybody who participated and join us tomorrow for another exciting giveaway!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 2

2011-12-02T00:00:00.005-05:00

Welcome to Day 2 of the Extravaganza! Today's prize is a super cute Santa Claus Christmas jumper courtesy of Paytons Play!

This jumper would be great for Christmas parties, pictures, and Christmas programs! The winner can choose from sizes 2T-4T.

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Paytons Play on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from Paytons Play. With so many dresses and outfits to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" EtsyKids on Facebook. Leave a comment below indicating that you liked the EtsyKids Team Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the EtsyKids blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following the EtsyKids blog and your Blogger Username.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each reply counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries must be made as a comment to this blog post only. Comments on other posts, blogs or Facebook pages will not be counted.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...and the winner is:

Congrats to Megan! You will be contacted shortly with more information.

Thanks to all who participated, and please join us for more fun tomorrow!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza! Day 1

2011-12-01T00:00:00.004-05:00

Welcome to Day 1 of the Extravaganza! To kick off this super giveaway, how about the chance to win a superhero cape?

Any kid can be a super hero in this fun cape from Magical Attic!

To Enter:

Required Entry: Visit Magical Attic on Etsy and add the shop to your favorites. Leave a comment on this blog telling us about your favorite item from Magical Attic. With so many custom kids costume items to choose from, it shouldn't be too hard to find something you love. Leave your Etsy username and e-mail address in the comment so we can contact you if you are the lucky winner.

Bonus Entries:

"Like" Magical Attic on Facebook. Leave a comment indicating that you liked Magical Attic's Facebook page and your Facebook Username.
Follow the Magical Attic blog. Leave a comment indicating that you are following Magical Attic's blog and your Blogger Username.
Share this giveaway on your Facebook Wall and leave a comment indicating that you did so (only one entry for this, regardless of how many pages you post this on).
Share this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment indicating that you did so, along with a link to your blog entry (only one entry for this, regardless of how many blogs you post this on).

Rules:

Entries will be accepted from 12:00 AM (EST) until 10:00 PM (EST)
Open to U.S. residents only (other giveaways with digitally delivered prizes will be open to everybody).
Winners will be notified via e-mail. Failure to respond within 48 hours will result in prize forfeiture and a new winner will be drawn.
Each reply counts as an entry, so you need to leave separate replies for each entry method.
The Required Entry must be completed. Bonus entries will not count unless the required entry is completed.
Entries will be verified, and any entries not meeting requirements will be discarded.
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Be courteous, and have fun!
By entering, you are agreeing to be bound by these rules.

...And the winner is:

Congrats to Kadydid Designs who was comment #1. Good luck to everybody tomorrow, we will have another great prize up for grabs!!

EtsyKids 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza!

2011-11-30T13:05:00.001-05:00

Join us tomorrow as we kick off December EtsyKids style! For each of the first 12 days of December, you will have a chance to win some great items from some of our fabulous EtsyKids shops! There are 30 items up for grabs, so some days there may be more than one item available, and on the final day there will be a Grand Prize with several different items for one lucky winner!

Thank you to our participating shops for making this possible! Click the links for a sneak peek of the items that will be featured in the giveaway.
Applesauce Crafts
Toastie Studio
Harvest Moon by Hand
Tuturocks
Baby Chic Creations
My Father's Hands, LLC
Aunty Ann Designs
Aunty Ann Designs (second entry)
2 Sprouts Stitchery
Harmony Girls Clothing
Quilted Hugs Bibs
Hi Mamma
LuckyLuCreations
My Sweet Sunshine
lil b Designs
The Sewing Loft
Bard Designs
Chew Chew's Closet
mia4art
Inky Pinky Paperie
Paytons Play
Dragonfly Boutique
AddieKat Boutique
Cuddlehugs Boutique
Leigh and Michael Designs
Dara43
Stitchin' Netka
Zvijezda
Magical Attic
Sweet Child of Mine Kids

EtsyKids Design Challenge: We have a Winner!

2011-11-29T23:00:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the winner of our November's challenge, 24. Plush Santa Owl Pillow by tzburps!

"Whooo will you give Santa Owl to this Christmas? Think about how excited a little one would be to see him poking out of a stocking on Christmas morning!"

TZ Burps is an exciting and bright shop filled with cuddly soft toys and other delightful baby necessities. Owl, birds, critters, monsters, in a huge variety of colors sure to please every tot on your Christmas list. Please be sure to check it out right here.

Celebrating Small Businesses

2011-11-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Small Business Saturday! For the second year in a row, American Express OPEN is leading an effort to encourage shoppers to do some of their holiday gift buying at small, local businesses. If you are an Etsy shop owner, that means you!
How can you celebrate?

Check the EtsyKids 2011 Holiday Guide for great deals from shops creating awesome items for kids.

Find great weekend-long sales at EtsyKids shops by using search term “etsykidsblacksale”!

Browse Etsy for gifts before heading out to the big box stores.

Do your shopping at small, locally owned businesses. You’ll be helping out a neighbor!

If you’re a shop owner, don’t forget to add Small Business Saturday to your Black Friday-Cyber Monday sale and advertising push! And, set a good example: Shop small for your holiday gifts!
Why shop handmade this holiday season? Team member Storybuilder Toys shared 10 reasons for buying handmade in a recent post here on the blog.
Happy shopping!
-Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

EtsyKids Team Black Friday / Cyber Monday Extravaganza!!!

2011-11-25T01:00:00.001-05:00

What better way to kick off the Holiday Season then buying handmade for your little ones in your life? EtsyKids Team is here for you. Please visit the shops below and check out their outstanding deals just for you!

Also, on Etsy use the tag EtsyKidsBlackSale to find so many wonderful items on sale.

But hurry the EtsyKids Team Black Friday / Cyber Monday Extravaganza is only for 4 days! The sale starts on Black Friday 11/25 and runs through Cyber Monday 11/28

2 Sprouts Stitchery

Offering stitched stuff for families.
10% off everything in my shop with coupon code EKS10.

Abcchildren

Holiday sale on all items!
15% off with coupon code Holiday15

ABShoppe

Motherhood Inspired is 25% off. Receive this special discount over all categories at A&B Shoppe, on your entire purchase. Save on bean bags, dolls, and toys. Save on reusable shopping bags, nursing pillow slipcovers, and nursing covers. coupon code: HOLIDAY11

AliBeanBaby

Peasant dresses, Reverse Knot dresses, Pillowcase sets, Reverse Knot sets all 15% OFF

Pillowcase dresses, Ruffled pants, Ruffled leggings, Sundresses all 10% off

All prices will be adjusted and reflected in the title by EtsyOnSale

ALittleRosieBowtique

Add Hair bows, headbands, and more. Get free shipping with coupon code NOVFREE . All orders over $25 will receive a FREE 4" Zebra Print Loopy Flower Hair Clip (with accent color of your choice) Just leave your color choice in the message to seller box at check out.

alpaca kids

10% off beautiful handmade alpaca knits for kids ETSYKIDS10

Aunty Ann Designs

Wild and Fun Unique Sock Monkeys. Made from soft knits and wild socks. Bibs, changing pads and felt pretend food. Come and visit, stay a while and shop 24/7. Shipping Monday-Friday. Coupon code: EtsySale15

Avy's Sew Right Creations

Handmade custom creations that are oh so right! Avy's specializes in handmade applique tops, tutus, and accessories. Entire shop will be 10% off plus free shipping this weekend only! coupon code: FREESHIP

BabyChicCreations

Use coupon code BLACKFRIDAY and save 10% off everything in shop

babychickdesigns

FREE SHIPPING on all orders through Monday, November 28th! coupon cose: FREESHIP

Bard Designs

FREE Shipping (Domestic Only) on all orders! Bard Designs boutique hair accessories make great gifts and are perfect stocking stuffers! coupon code: BlackSale

baresockcrafts

BareSockcrafts is offering you a 15% discount on your total offer plus for Black Friday and Cyber Monday you will have the opportunity to chose a gift on every purchase of more than $20.00!
Lots of good stocking stuffers for the little ones! coupon code: HOLIDAYS15

bebbyjumpers

Quality handknits for babies and children available ~ use coupon code NOVEMBER10 to receive 10% discount throughout Black Friday weekend!

Bees Knees Designs

I will have all of my Christmas cards on sale for $9.99 (regularly $12.99) as well as all of my invitations. coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY

BillieTK

Free Shipping on all orders. Please use code FREESHIP at checkout. Thank you!

chewchewscloset

Chew Chew's Closet will be offering 10% off your total order (excluding shipping) during the event (Friday 11/26 thru Monday 11/28). Use coupon code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout to receive your discount. Happy shopping everyone!

chickadeevinyl

I sell vinyl wall decals! I will give free shipping to all orders over 30.00 coupon code: blackfridayfs

Childishthoughts

All items will be 20% off. This includes all crayon rolls, crayon aprons, car rolls, tool belts and much more.

Chumdandy

Chumdandy is joining in on the hustle and bustle of holiday fun! Come check out our fun & funky headbands! November 25-28, Chumdandy will be offering 25% off any purchase! coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY25

CollieOllieDesigns

My sale will be 20% off all of my Christmas and Winter holiday items. I have lots of adorable items to choose from -- red corduroy reversible jumpers, ruffle skirt, and snowman jumpers and shirts! Remember to search EtsyKidsBlackSale. coupon code: EKBS20

Corinna's Creations

Receive $5 off any shirt or apron in my store! I have a fun, hand painted, unique shirt for everyone on your list! coupon code: Friday5

Cuckooboo

15% off everything in shop, hair accessories, pacifier clips, badge clips and stethoscope tags. Get a present for everyone on your list at one shop! coupon code: J15OFF

Cuddlehugs Boutique

From Black Friday, 11/25 through Cyber Monday, 11/28...please enjoy 25% OFF on any of our tutus, sparkle shoes or any other item in the boutique. Use coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY at checkout.

Cupcake Dream

Custom Personalized Birthday and Baby Shower Invitations - 15% Off with code BLACK15

DaisyChains

20% Off All Jewelry & Hair Flair, Just Use Coupon Code: EtsyKids11 Upon Checkout!

DragonflyBowtique

Receive 40% off our entire stock of accessories on Black Friday only. Saturday-Monday receive 30% off of our entire stock of accessories. BLACKFRIDAY

ellyandoliver

Save 20% off everything in the shop! coupon code: EtsyKidsBlack

embroideredtreasures

Now that the cooler weather is here it's time to wrap your favorite little one in one of our adorable blankets! We are offering free shipping within the United States on blanket orders beginning Black Friday and ending on Cyber Monday. Get Yours Today!!
We have other adorable bib and burp cloth sets in our Etsy Shop and at http://giftsbykarla.com/.

FairyDawn

Missy Sheldrake, owner of Murals by Missy And illustrator of Colonel Purple Turtle's Purple Turtle Journal is offering original fairy paintings 11x14 just $65.00! Archival 8x10 prints of colorful, whimsical subjects just $15.00 each! Free shipping with coupon code BELIEVENFAIRIES

feltedkitten

free shipping on all purchases using code FREESHIP

Frayed Fuzzies

Nearly all items in my shop will be 15% off including:
Mini Quilt Security Blankets
Fabric Letters (a great educational tool!)
Baby Quilts
Child Sized Quilts in fun, unique theme
...and that's just for the kids :)s
Special coupon codes that can be used IN ADDITION to the sale prices on Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday will be released on my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/frayedfuzzies

Grannyzann

Granny Zann's entire shop will be 20% off for Black Friday thru midnight EST Cyber Monday. Please use coupon code TURKEY20 to receive 20% off your merchandise total. Happy shopping,
Granny Zann

Green Beansie Cards

50% off printable photo cards, party packages and stationery. Discount does not apply to professional printing services. coupon code: EKT201150

Harvest Moon by Hand

All items in the shop are 15% off during the sale. Harvest Moon by Hand offers (1) natural, hand-embroidered and felted products which inspire creative and imaginative play in children; (2) Waldorf-inspired window stars; and (3) eco-conscious items from materials that would normally be recycled thereby lessening the impact on the environment.
coupon code: EKIDS15

Hound Dog Designs

Free shipping!

jaclynsdesigns

10% of of any item. coupon code: JR1234

Jewelry and Baby Bling By Dara

10% off sale in my Etsy shop! custom designed jewelry, tutus, hair accessories, photo props, bling Converse shoes, clothing and so much more! Become a fan on facebook for special sales and sneek peaks! coupon code: GOBBLE10

Kadydid Designs

15% discount off everything in the store! Baby car seat covers, tutus (tulle and fabric) and burp cloths. Perfect for new moms, babies and girls of all ages! coupon code: ETSYKIDS11

kbpdesigns

kbpdesigns will be offering 15% of your total sale during November 25th -28th 2011 during the EtsyKids Black Friday Cyber Sale! KBP designs offers beautifully handcrafted, Neckties, Diaper covers, Boxer shorts and more fun items that are great for pictures, holidays, and casual wear. KBP designs is the shop to find the handsome fun and cute items for you little guy. coupon code: etsykidscybersale

knitstyle

FREE SHIPPING (cloth play blocks, burp clothes and hand knit items). coupon code: NOVSHIP2011

Knitty Momma

20% off all items in my shop, including all character hats! coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY20

kustomcardsandmore

15% off every item in the store. Great gifts for the Star Wars fan in your life or sports fan. Need party supplies stock up now during our holiday sale. Custom orders are welcome, price will be quoted to include 15% discount. Don't see an item you are looking for just ask. Messages will be answered through out the holiday weekend. coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY2011

Lefthandedcraftclub

Free shipping for all children clothing. 10 % discount for everything else. Discount not valid for supplies ( linen fabrics) coupon code: HOLIDAY10

Leigh & Michael Designs

Support Small Business! Why wait til Small Business Saturday, shop all weekend long with coupon code SMTURKEY11 and receive FREE SHIPPING your entire purchase at Leigh and Michael Designs (no exclusions)! Happy Shopping :-)
BONUS: Like Us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/LeighandMichael and the 100th & 150th fan (and the fan who referred them) both receive a $10off coupon code toward their purchase.

Leila's Flower Garden

fabric flowers ✿ fabric wall flowers ✿ wall flowers ✿ 3D wall flowers ✿ fabric decals ✿
save 15% off your flower purchase. sorry, sale does not apply on custom orders or already reduced flowers. coupon code:blackfriday2011

Lil' Bit Sassy

I will be having a Black Friday to Cyber Monday sale in my shop. All items will be 30% off or have free shipping. Prices and shipping rates will be changed so no coupon code or PayPal refund necessary! This sale also includes custom orders!! 30% off items are: Aprons, doll blankets, cupcake toppers, and toys.
Free Shipping items are: shirts, onesies, bibs, totes, boo boo bags, hair pretties, hair scarfs and all clearance items.

LilBDesigns

20% Off Entire Shop with Flat-Rate Shipping ~ art folios, crayon wallets, dine.n.doodle chalk mats, and knob notes ~ travel-size fun! coupon code: HOLIDAY20

Little Lady Accessories

Save BIG - 20%on your entire order- of fancy rosette headbands, adorable mini top hats, and pretty satin flowers. All handmade. Plus, the first 20 orders will receive a free satin flower hair clip!! coupon code: savebig

Little Pags Boutique

Shop on over to Little Pags Boutique for a Great Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deal! We will be offering a BOGOHO deal (Buy One Get One Half Off). Which for those days can be combined with the current Special (Spend $15.00 or more and Shipping is FREE)

Little Sweetie Boutique

I sell custom made dresses & skirts for little girls.
Save 10% in my shop 11/25-28 with coupon code BLACKFRIDAY

looploft

FREE SHIPPING ON ALL STOCKINGS
FRIDAY 11/18 - BLACK FRIDAY 11/25
and get a surprise in EVERY order!
fiber arts using repurposed + natural materials

loveinbloomboutique

Free shipping on all tutus and tutu sets & 25% off all hair accessories in my Ready to Ship Section.

loveineverything

I will be offering 15% off all items in my shop.

LuckyLu Creations

25% Off My Entire Etsy Shop - Handmade greeting cards and gift tags! coupon code: BF2011

M & Em's Bracelets

All of our bracelets and wine glass charms will be 25% off!!! Please use coupon code at check out to receive the discount. Thank you for shopping with us! coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY25

MaiseysDaiseys

Fabulous Paper Mache Headbands for the Holidays & Beyond!

Michelleszoo

All animals 20% off on Black Friday 11/25 through Cyber Monday 11/28 with coupon code. coupon code: BLKFRDY20

mommmyerica

Baby items with mom in mind! Ring slings, changing pad clutches, bibs, baby sets, flower pins and more! Spend 50 dollars of more get 25% off!!! coupon code: 50ORMORE

MomNMiaQuilts

Free Shipping on your entire purchase through Sunday, 11/27 - Use code ""GOBBLE11"" at checkout! Domestic orders only.
Stock up on great baby and children's gifts for the holidays!

Monkeys 'N Munchkins

Take 20% off all orders from midnight on 11/25/11 until 11:59 pm on 11/28/11! You can find boutique and heirloom-quality jewelry for babies, girls, and boys. Not only are there tons of gifts perfect for Christmas, but you'll find flower girl jewelry, First Communion and baptism jewelry, big sister and big brother items, and lots more! Over 1700 sales with 100% positive feedback!

My Little Pixies
Free Shipping Sitewide on all the headbands, flowers, bows, clips and cute Christmas items your little pixie needs! :) Coupon code: thankyou

My Sweet Sunshine

My Sweet Sunshine will be offering 15% off from Black Friday (Nov 25th) through Cyber Monday (Nov 28th). Come get you child's Christmas outfits now!! Use code: BLOG15

MyFathersHandsLLC

Offering thoughtfully crafted bare wood toys.
Our Black Friday - Cyber Monday special for 15% off all In Between Sized"" toys (prior to shipping). coupn code: BFCM15

NiahBella

Niah Bella sells mostly kids t shirt and sewn hair accessories, each item is made to order and completely customizable. You want a pink pig with a pearl necklace? No problem, a horse, a hedgehog, or a Hummer? No problem! I make what you dream! Please use coupon code EtsyKidsBlackSale for free shipping on every item, for all your items! coupon code: EtsyKidsBlackSale

NikkiInStitches

Everything in the shop is 15% off!
Use coupon code: HOLIDAY15
Merry Shopping!

ohbuckets

oh, buckets sells handmade items that are simple. sweet. special. - cards, buckets, pictures, cupcake toppers, gift bags, and journals. all in-stock buckets will be $10 (more than half off!) all other in-stock items will be 20% off!
coupon code: ektxmas2011

paytonsplay
Free shipping on all items and custom orders. coupon code: FREESHIPPING

Peace, Baby! Batiks

Peace, Baby! is celebrating Black Friday and two years on Etsy with a sale! Free U.S. shipping through December 31, PLUS you can save an extra 15% from 11/25 through 12/9 with coupon code ELF15. Peace, Baby! sells one-of-a-kind hand-dyed clothing for babies and toddlers. Lots of Christmas dresses and T-shirts in stock!

Perky Beanies

15% off entire order ~ coupon code: BLACKSALE2011

Pink Stripe

Free shipping on all items at Pink Stripe! Use coupon code BLACKFRIDAY.

QuiltedHugsBibs

Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale at Quilted Hugs Bibs! Give all the little ones on your list a custom quilted bib or gift set for Christmas or Hanukkah. All bibs, burp cloths, pacifier clips and gift sets will be on sale at 30% off the regular price. No coupons needed...discounts already taken. We'll be happy to gift wrap your purchase fee of charge! Just note that in your order form when you check out!

RaspberryAndLimeShop

20% off everything in the store this weekend! Wonderful handmade hats for the family. coupon code: etsykids

RedKoalaArt

If you are looking for anything printed on canvas, we can deliver. We also offer an extensive selection of frames, and can print on glossy or matte photo paper. All of our art, growth charts, bow holders, photos on canvas, and holiday items can be customized to meet your needs. Buy a Christmas ornament and get Free Shipping coupon code: BlackFridaySale

Redrane

15% off all in-stock, ready to ship items! coupon code: Black15

RueDesign

Offering 15% off personalized melamine plates just in time for the holidays. Be sure to order your personalized Santa Cookie Plate. Custom plates are keepsakes for years to come. coupon code: HOLIDAY15

Sadie Bloom Designs

Sadie Bloom Designs is celebrating Black Friday and Cyber Monday by offering customers FREE SHIPPING (including free gift wrapping), a $4 savings! Sadie Bloom specializes in handmade and hand-sewn frilly silky fabric flower and fabric yoyo rosette headbands, brooches and hair accessories, for babes & belles of all ages!

Second Star Designs

This year, bring the magic of the holiday season into your home, with hand-crafted children's clothing & accessories in every color of your child's imagination - available at 25% off our regular prices during our Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sales Event. During check-out, please use Coupon Code: BLACKFRIDAY to receive 25% off your entire purchase.

Southern Seams Kids

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sale! 15% off! Friday November 25th through Monday November 28th! coupon code: FBF15

Stitchinnetka
Free shipping on all goods Black Friday 11/25 through Cyber Monday 11/28 coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY

sunnybrookfarmdesign

10% off with coupon MerryChristmas2011
Free shipping on 2 or more items (refunded through Paypal)
Plus an extra giveaway from Black Friday through Cyber Monday on my Facebook page!
Sunnybrook Farm Designs creates boutique girls' clothing, both custom and one of a kind designs.

SweetChildofMineKids

10% off all purchases on Cyber Monday. I sell children's clothing and accessories, and have some special Christmas items. coupon code: CYBERMONDAY

SweeterThanSweets

20% off entire purchase (not including shipping) on Black Friday and Cyber Monday At SweeterThanSweets, you'll find sweet somethings for the little ones in your life (and some for the mamas, too): hooded baby/toddler towels, shoe clips, boutique burp cloths, hair clips/bows, headbands, hair pins, shirts, onesies and gift sets. coupon codes: blackfridayetsy (on Friday) OR cybermondayetsy (on Monday)

Sweetiebugs

Use the coupon code CYBER to receive 10% off any item in the shop! All quilts, blankets, pillowcases and burp cloths are available for immediate shipping.

tanjadlyn

Promotion: 10% off any purchase: Holiday Sale From November 1st through December 10th:
Products: Savvy Baby Goodies for baby's Nursery, Bath and Gifts { Baby, Toddler and Child All Cotton Spa Robes, Hooded Towels, Blankets, Bibs, Burps , PJ"S and more... made with eco-frienldy all cotton Sweet Designer Fabrics }
coupon code: HOLIDAYDEALS2011

The Handprintlady
10% off with coupon code: EKT10

The Sewing Loft

Wishing you a Handmade Holiday!
Offering quirky handmade gifts and ""DIY"" crafts to help you ""reClaim"" your crafting groove!
Reduce, Reclaim & Recraft are at the core of all of our collections.
Please use code ""EKHoliday11"" at check out for 15% off your purchase.
Happy Holidays!

The Trendy Tot Shop

10% off Black Friday and 15% on Cyber Monday Sale is good on all Tutus, Ties, Outfits, and Accessories!

thecrazyelephant

15% off on all shop items plus the first 8 buyers recieve a free DVD of our animated shorts, Morgan Media Animated. coupon code: thanksgiving15

TheSewingFool

TheSewingFool is having a Black Friday SALE!!! Come and shop my selection of hand cut and sewn Fabric Applique Tshirts. I have lots of cute, I mean cool, designs. Lots of boy friendly designs like a pirateship, dragon,train, monkey and more. I also do custom design work, so contact me if you have a unique idea for your tshirt. For the Black Friday weekend I'll be offering 20% off!! coupon code: blackfriday20

tinyroseboutique
Handmade children's clothes and accessories.
15% Sitewide for Black Friday. coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY

tinystitches

$1 will be donated to Harvesters (http://www.harvesters.org/) for every pillowcase sold from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

Trendie Treasures

Offering 20% discount PLUS FREE SHIPPING on all orders using coupon code BF20FS. 20% discount will be applied instantly and the shipping will be refunded to you via PayPal.

Trendy Lil' Monkey

Welcome to our Black Friday Sale!
Our shop specializes in handmade hair accessories and earrings for girls of all ages.
Enjoy 30% OFF all items in our shop with coupon code: HANDMADE
Thank you and Happy Cyber Shopping!

TutuCuteandMoore!

FREE Teddy Bear/Doll tutu with the purchase of Princess or Baby's 1st tutu. Great combo gift. Teddy/Doll tutus normally sell for $9.

Tuturocks

Receive 10% of your holiday purchase.Type 10OFF during check out. Discount do not apply to shipping charges.

twogreenolivetrees

SPRUCE Christmas TREE is a modern tee for your stylish tot.
made w/ an assortment of designer fabrics ~ modern + effortless style
size 2 & size 6 available :
{twogreen+olivetrees} design TM
enter coupon code GREEN for 20% off

tzburps

Looking for a unique stocking stuffer? How about a custom owl pillow to poke out of a stocking. Those big eyes peeking out will light up anyone's face on Christmas morning. Custom Owl Pillows $5 off for this special sale only!

vivyscloset

Vivy's Closet is offering free shipping on all children's clothing. To receive the free shipping you must enter coupon code: bffs11. CANNOT BE USED ON FURNITURE PURCHASE

WalterSilva

15% off anything in shop. coupon code: sale15

westmama

HUGE 30% Off Sale! Screen printed apparel for clever and hip kids and parents. Great gifts, art, accessories! Stock up for birthdays and baby showers too! coupon code: Etsykidssale

Zoe Girl Designs

Use coupon code etsykids2011 for 15% off your purchase! Zoe Girl Designs sells unique, chic clothing for boys and girls!

Zookies
Free shipping on all orders starting Black Friday, November 25, through Cyber Monday, November 28. ZooKies features handmade cloth diaper covers but also includes wet bags, reusable snack and sandwich bags, and other baby items. coupon code: THANKS2011

Zvijezda

All items in our shop will 15 % off. I hope you will like our baby things ideal for Xmas gifts - onesies with cool prints, mei tai carrier, pants, warm animal hats etc...A star is born! coupon code: BLACKFRIDAY2011

Happy Shopping!

EtsyKids Design Challenge: It's time to Vote!

2011-11-22T18:44:00.001-05:00

It's time to vote for your favorite item! Voting will be open through midnight EST, November 27th. This month, EtsyKids members were challenged to create an exciting new item based on a theme "Yes! There is a Santa Claus.". We received a bunch of fantastic entries from some talented people. Each participant was assigned a unique random number. Please note your favorite from the list below and place your vote. You can also view each entry in detail by clicking on links provided at the bottom of this post or HERE.

(If you can't view the voting poll above, please follow HERE to vote.)

Gobble Gobble - quick Turkey Treat

2011-11-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

Reposted with permission from TinyStitches

Sugar cookies (homemade* or store bought), chocolate frosting, candy corns, mini chocolate chips, and mini red M&M’s … simple, cute, and perfect for a little treat for little hands to decorate and share with the neighbors!

SUGAR COOKIES*
2 cups sugar
1 cup shortening (Crisco)
3 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1-1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup flour
3 cups flour

Cream sugar and shortening; beat in eggs; add milk and vanilla.
Mix baking powder, soda and salt into 1 cup flour. Add to sugar/shortening/milk mixture, mix well. Add remaining flour and mix well (dough may be very stiff)
Chill dough thoroughly. (5 minutes in the freezer if you are in a pinch)
Roll 1/4” thick on well-floured board (or between 2 pieces of waxed paper), and cut with your favorite cookie cutters. For practically round cookies, use a cookie scoop to dollop dough onto a cookie sheet 2-3 inches apart. Smash balls down with the bottom of a glass and reshape if necessary with fingers.
Place on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375°F until edges start to turn golden brown… about 8-10 minutes. Remove promptly from baking sheet.

* * * * *

Need some cookies with staying power? Here are some great options that will help yield hours of imaginative play from little ones.

Plain Animal Crackers, wool felt by northwoodstoys

Sugar Cookie and Icing Bag Set by RedDirtKids

Toddler Apron with Cookies by babybysam

Felt Cookie Baking Set by lindaskraftykreations

Butternut Squash “Nuffins”

2011-11-20T06:20:00.001-05:00

Shared by Anne of Greenchild Creations

Over at Greenchild Creations, we follow the paleo (or caveman) diet for my son’s dietary needs. This means we are grain free, dairy free, legume free, and nightshade free. While the diet consists of wonderful fresh whole foods, it can be difficult during holiday gatherings where tempting pies, cakes, cookies, and breads abound.

This is a recipe I created that works perfectly with holiday meals – or anytime! Let me introduce you to what I call the “Nuffin”. I must warn you, they are not only delicious and nutritious, but highly addicting!

Butternut Squash “Nuffins”
3/4 c. ground almonds
1/4 c. coconut flour
1/8 c. chopped mixed nuts – I like to use pecans, walnuts, and almonds
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. allspice
2 tsp baking powder
3 eggs
1/4 c. suet, rendered
1/4 c. maple syrup, 100% pure
1/2 c. butternut squash, cooked

Washed raw sugar (turbinado sugar) Mix dry ingredients except raw sugar, set aside. Add wet ingredients and stir thoroughly, adding the freshly rendered suet last. Spoon into a greased muffin tin and sprinkle a little washed raw sugar on top. Makes approximately 12 “nuffins”.

Some notes: ·

Ground almonds - you can buy almond meal, or you can save a little money and buy sliced almonds and grind them yourself in a coffee grinder·
Baking powder - to keep in with the spirit of paleo, I use an arrowroot based baking powder as commercial blends may contain cornstarch, potato starch, or sodium aluminum sulfate·

Suet - I like to render mine as needed, but you can buy already rendered (tallow). To render, cut off a chunk of suet and melt over low heat in a small pan. Then pour off what you need. A substitute of another fat/oil for the suet is not recommended; it is what gives the best full satisfying flavor. Our dog thinks the leftover cracklin’s are delicious, LOL!!

As tasty as these are, they will not last long! Don’t eat them all at once though - nuts can have a laxative effect if consumed in large enough quantities.

Thanks for letting me share!
Anne Hoelz
Greenchild Creations

Thanksgiving Keepsake

2011-11-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

Reprinted with permission from TinyStitches

Years ago when my kindergartner was a a wee babe, we made this Thanksgiving keepsake for the grandma's and great-grandma's as an expression of love and gratitude for each of them. Each of the children's hands got covered in paint to create these fun Thanksgiving turkeys. Five years later, they marvel and how much their hands have changed.

With families gathering across the United States next week. This little activity is quick and simple and will yield a sweet product that will freeze a little slice of time for all who participate.

You'll need a tea towel, acrylic craft paint, a few paint brushes, ribbons/trims of your choosing.

Generously, but carefully, paint your child’s hand with the intended paint colors – seriously, cheap acrylic craft paint works wonderfully, and it survives LOTS of washings, honest. Work quickly as a thin layer of paint dries quickly and you'll be painting the palm and thumb brown, and each finger a different paint color. Make sure the paint is still wet before you gently, but firmly, press their hand down on the lower third of a white tea towel. Don’t jostle or wiggle, or the turkey will smudge. Consider how many turkey’s you’ll do so you space them appropriately across the towel … how cute would it be to do a towel with all the cousins Thanksgiving morning while they wait for the meal? For little, little ones, stick with a brown turkey and let the older kids add color with their hand print turkey’s.

Using colored permanent markers — Sharpies work wonderfully! — draw the eyes, legs, beak and gobbler on your special turkeys. Be sure to also label each hand print with the child’s name and along the hem in the corner, add “Happy Thanksgiving” and the year.

Sew coordinating ribbons and trims below the turkeys. I use white thread in my bobbin and invisible thread in the top so I can quickly and easily sew different colored trims on without having to change threads, and the back stays neat and polished too. [Consider doing this step first if you'll be traveling and gifting this to your hostess.]

Set paint with a hot iron and pressing cloth. Launder normally.

* * * *

Here are some other custom keepsake offerings you might enjoy as well.

Tooth Fairy Pillow, with chart by looploft

Hand and Footprint plaque by handprintlady

Personalized Child's Heirloom Art by ChoochMagooz

5x7 Custom Fabric Silhouette for framing by BabyDobbins

Kid-Friendly Recipe: Pumpkin Bread

2011-11-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

Hi! Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks here. As soon as fall hits, I am ready to bake. My tastes tend toward cookies (whose doesn’t?!?) and sweet breads. This pumpkin bread is one of my favorites. I’m going to bake another batch before Thanksgiving.

I always buy at least one baking pumpkin each fall. And, like I said in my butternut squash soup post recently, I rarely peel raw winter squashes. Rather, I bake them. Cut the pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds and bake for 30-60 (or more) minutes at 350 degrees. Let the pumpkin cool long enough, and you should be able to lift the shell off the pulp. If not, it’s really easy to scoop it out with a spoon. I freeze it in 1 cup portions so it’s ready for recipes.

If that’s not your cup of tea, plain canned pumpkin also works in this recipe. I think this recipe is nearly perfect; the next time I make it, though, I might add chocolate chips because in my opinion, everything is better with chocolate! It makes two loaves. They freeze great, or if your friends are like mine, they wouldn’t mind if you shared a loaf with them.

Want to get your kids involved? Give them a wooden spoon and a baggie of walnuts and set them to chopping! Mine had a great time “bamming” the nuts.

Pumpkin Bread
(Source: A Taste of the North Country by Wendy Harrington)
Yield: Two loaves

2c mashed pumpkin
3 1/2c flour
2t baking soda
1/2t salt
1t cinnamon
1t nutmeg
3c sugar
1c vegetable oil
4 eggs
2/3c water
1c chopped walnuts

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans.

Mix the dry ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. Add the pumpkin, oil, eggs, and water, mixing until well blended. Fold in nuts (and/or chocolate chips!), and divide the batter evenly between the two pans.

Bake for 1 hour, until the bread tests clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes; then let cool completely on wire racks.

EtsyKids Design Challenge for November: Yes! there is a Santa Claus.

2011-11-18T00:00:00.001-05:00

image via Flickr - opening presents

"Yes! there is a Santa Claus." is our challenge for November, picked by our last month's winner thomaspark. We will feature an abundance of holiday fashion, Santa motifs, invitations, greeting cards, seasonal decor, and favors. All hand made by our talented team members.

EtsyKids members will have until November 19th to submit their entries, and voting will be open to everybody from Monday, November 21st to Sunday, November 27th. So, be sure to come back to the EtsyKids blog for a new post on the 21st to see all of the entries and VOTE! In the meantime, please click here to get a sneak peek at some exciting entries so far!

Interview Series

2011-11-17T13:43:00.002-05:00

Our interview with Joyfully Sewn Designs will be the last one for 2011, we hope to resume this series in early 2012.

Introducing Joyfully Sewn Designs!

2011-11-17T10:17:00.000-05:00

Today we introduce you to Sarah from Joyfully Sewn Designs

what motivated you to start your shop?

I first started doing custom sewing right after I graduated from high school 12 years ago, but I didn't get started in the world of online selling until the Fall of 2009. Local business had slowed enough for the first time since I started for me to think about possibly trying to sell online. I had a couple friends with Etsy shops, so I thought I would give it a try too, and I'm so glad I did. :)

what is the story behind your shop name?

Coming up with a shop name was a challenge! It seemed that every name I tried was already taken. I had thought about doing Sarah Elizabeth Designs, but someone else already had that name. I had to get creative then and come up with more unique names. After several attempts I settled with Joyfully Sewn Designs. I love what I do, and I wanted that reflected in my shop name.

do you have a favorite Etsy Shop (non-child related)?

There are way to many wonderful Etsy shops to pick a favorite!! I'd love to be able to purchase from many, many shops! ONE of my favorites though is The Country Sign Shop. We've just been looking for a few more signs like this to put up in our home!

what surprised you most about having your own online shop?

When I first started my shop, I had no idea what I was doing or how much work it would involve! It's a whole new world trying to sell your products online! I think one of the things that surprised me most was the concept of having to actually raise my prices so that people would be confident enough to buy! Instead of looking for the cheapest possible price, many online customers looking for handmade items view the price as a gauge of the quality of the work!

what do you find most challenging about being an Etsy seller?

Learning SEO, how to promote myself and my work, and trying to learn to market my products have definitely been some of the biggest challenges!

what's your personal philosophy behind your shop / products?

I first started my business after seeing what a need there was for modest feminine girls clothing. The Lord has given me talents, and I want to use those to the best of my ability to serve those around me in a way to honor Him. If I can be a blessing to others with my sewing and bring joy to them, I feel that I've been successful.

how would someone (other then you) describe you?

That's a hard one! I don't know... Probably quiet and maybe even shy. Loves to be with children. Sorry, I'm no good at coming up with what people would say about me. :)

what music do you have on while you are creating?

Classical music is what I have on the most often. I LOVE listening to WCPE a listener supported station out of North Carolina. You can find it online at www.theclassicalstation.org

what do you do when you aren't working?

I love to spend time with my family and friends. I'm the main cook and baker in our family, and I enjoy doing both of those things. I love to read, and I have fun entering all kinds of blog giveaways. I love to be with children too.

anything else you'd like to tell us or share?

I've been so blessed by all the help and support I've been given since I first started my shop! If you're just starting out, one of the best things you can do is connect with other sellers, ask questions, and learn from then. It's not easy to sell online, but hard work and patience do pay off!