Binkaminka's Bead Therapy

Waterfall

2011-11-30T01:34:00.000-08:00

Brainstorm

Clasic Green

2011-11-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

New Emerald green epaulettes.

My Angel

2011-11-01T02:37:00.000-07:00

Wedding epaulet with large swarovski crystals, spikes and bead embroidery.

Latest

2011-10-18T03:07:00.000-07:00

My latest creation. Large unisex epaulet with masses of spikes and crystals. This bead embroidery was extremely detailed and took me 2 weeks to complete. But well worth the time :)

You Are My Sister

2011-10-12T23:38:00.000-07:00

Antony and Johnsons..

Tumblr

2011-09-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

For those, who tumblr, it is no big news, but I've discovered new world here.. Much more easier to post and reblog, much more inspiration..
here is my tumbler account for those who seek for more fashion and spikes :)

Shakespire in Love

2011-09-06T23:48:00.001-07:00

Back to Classic

2011-09-02T21:06:00.001-07:00

Good old general style epaulettes in mustard.And this handsome man is Nasserddin Shah of Qajar
Nasser al-Din Shah Qajar (July 16, 1831 – May 1, 1896) was the King and Shah of Persia from September 17, 1848 to May 1, 1896 when he was assassinated. He was the son of Mohammad Shah Qajar and the third longest reigning monarch king in Persian history after Shapur II of the Sassanid Dynasty and Tahmasp I of the Safavid Dynasty. He had sovereign power for close to 50 years and was also the first Persian monarch to ever write and publish his diaries. Naser al-Din introduced a number of western innovations to Persia, including a modern postal system, train transport, a banking system and newspaper publishing. He was the first Iranian to be photographed and was a patron of Photography who had himself photographed hundreds of times.
What an inspiration!

Crazy New Epaulette

2011-08-30T01:18:00.001-07:00

Melting ice
Tears of Sun
Pitty I don't have more of these glass spikes.. These are so easy to use and soooooo effective..

Laurie Anderson Official Website

2011-08-21T09:29:00.000-07:00

http://www.laurieanderson.com/home.shtml

Photo taken by Martin in abandoned castle..

and this is Laurie, the Queen..

* * *

2011-08-20T23:41:00.001-07:00

Back to Earrings

2011-08-20T01:46:00.000-07:00

Slim and minimalistic..
You decide should I make more of this spiky stuff :))

FeatherSpikes

2011-08-18T21:52:00.001-07:00

New and available - spikes, feathers, crystals, swarovski and glass beads.
Smaller version of Glam epaulettes.

Country Glam

2011-08-04T23:31:00.000-07:00

We are on vacation again, but I had to finish custom epaulettes .. Here is the result and some country style photos of the finished piece.

Charming. Isn't it?

My Beading Mantra

2011-07-31T04:22:00.000-07:00

Deva Premal, Miten, Manose

Wave Gothik Treffen Leipzig 2011

2011-06-20T22:17:00.000-07:00

Les Solitudes in Wave Gothik Treffen Leipzig 2011
Spiky :)

Corrida Epaulet

2011-06-19T21:40:00.000-07:00

Heavy bead embroidery in addition of ropes and chains in black and gold tones and tiny dots of red. My favorite shape at the moment :)

I'm back..

2011-06-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

Back from vacation, but forgot my camera, so taking photos with phone.. very strange..
Anyway, here is what I've made so far, and these two are still available.
Medusa Epaulet

and Diadem Epaulet

xoxo
see You soon!

Summer Hot

2011-06-06T00:08:00.000-07:00

It is too hot in city, so we are leaving to country recharge some batteries and hopefully get inspiration from nature and wild. I'll be continuing working but not pushing myself.. Sorry for my waiting list, but at the moment I want to follow new influences, so not sure if I ever be able to make everything I promised. All rush orders are done, now I wanna try to make what's in my head and hopefully there will be some fresh ideas when we get there.
There is no access to internet, so my shop is temporary closed on vacation mode. All messages will be auto-replayed.

See You soon!

Variation on Glam Epaulettes

2011-05-30T08:40:00.001-07:00

New variation for Robert.

Photos From Far Away

2011-05-19T08:09:00.000-07:00

Rafael from Brazil And Freddy from Chicago in his Prom night :)
Thank You for shearing these!

I've been bad bad girl..

2011-05-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry for such a long non posting. I was running against the time with my waiting list.. Not even close to the end and every day there are few more requests I can't say strait NO and just adding and adding.. I've noticed that instead of making life easier I started to make it more difficult and instead of simplicity my designs become more complicated and more time-taking, so please please please enjoy this madness :) For people who are beading and complaining that this technique is not popular, I suggest think a bit different - change attitudes and try out new styles, follow the trends and look for originality and freshness. Most important - follow Your dreams.
Here are few of my march-april-may pieces randomly..

I guess You remember this magnificent trap by my husband Martin:) I can whisper that he is working on new piece now, it will be something in art noveau style.. so fingers crossed..

Comment to Win Entire Noir Scene Treasury!

2011-04-15T00:48:00.000-07:00

Just leave Your comment to win entire Noirsceneteam treasury!!!
Active till April 24th!!!

Where Children Sleep

2011-03-14T12:09:00.000-07:00

At the time we are complaining how life is hard, take time to look through this book by James Mollison. And think.

Open publication - Free publishing

Bohemian Goddess

2011-02-15T22:05:00.000-08:00

New Starts

2011-02-12T09:53:00.000-08:00

When I was starting etsy journey, my hubby was pretty skeptical about my chances, but now when I'm there more than two years he finally is infected with same virus. We are trying out new materials and techniques, and here are first results for Your judgment.

Brass epaulettes are lined with black felt. Other pair is made from melchior with addition of felt, black velvet, fringe and ropes.

Googling Around

2011-01-31T22:43:00.000-08:00

Googling around and found sweet Nancy Zhang post in her blog with another military inspired and theatrical costume using my epaulets. I really admire her sketches and creativity putting together such a different pieces! Read the post here and blog here.

The Black Story. January.

2011-01-30T22:02:00.000-08:00

Now when January is almost at the ending point I can see, that it was the black themed month for me.
Almost every piece I've done is black, heavy detailed and beadad with hematite stones, glass, beads and crystals. Some are simply clustered, some have strict ornamentation. Epaulets are really weighting close to 0.5kg per pair.. pretty much for Your fragile shoulders and pricey for shipping, but never mind - that's the cost of having real thing.
Black ans silver.. Hmm.. I feel like need some colors now ..

Crazy Shoes

2011-01-30T10:31:00.000-08:00

For those who know me this post probably will seem strange, but I couldn't stay away of thees beauties.. Plenty of inspiration for DIY crafters, and not only to use on shoes but everywhere.. Perfect clusters, chains, spikes, feathers and sparkling stuff..
Of course if You are ready to spend a fortune, here is real stuff on House of Gasoline Glamour

Style bloggers! You have to see this!

2011-01-07T00:56:00.000-08:00

No comments, just see and visit

The Sartorialist

Royal Couture

2010-12-15T23:12:00.000-08:00

Guo Pei announces her ambitions at China Fashion Week in Beijing.
More info about her and Fashion Week You can find here.
Very inspiring...

Silver Turnaround

2010-12-09T05:11:00.000-08:00

Just finished Freddy Krueger worth epaulets. Tried new techniques and materials on these. Actually this was real silver- spike themed month to me couse made quite a few of them. New Year is coming with silver.. and lot's of snow here in Latvia..

Weekend Photosession

2010-12-05T02:23:00.000-08:00

We had fun filming photos for our friend Gunita who has recently opened new etsy shop with healthy and funky products gbbox . Btw the model is my hubby who was angry at the process at start but in the morning looked great :)
You can find natural teas, eye masks, herbal pillows and soaps, etc.. but my most favorite and geeky so far is this *** as well as vintage treasures from Liepāja.

Good luck and be healthy!

Old School by Luca Larenza

2010-12-04T05:40:00.000-08:00

Luca Larenza is a young Italian designer, best-known for his casual-chic clothing line.

On spring 2005 he decided to create his own exclusive T-shirt brand, and since then the collection has been developed to become a variety of top styles for men and women, hoods, sweaters, cardigans, t-shirts, shirts and polos, distinguished by neckwear details and great fabric quality that only the “Made in Italy” can provide.

This AW11 collection is so fantastic and sweet! No skinny models can beat that old man..

Here is backstage video of filming these gorgeous photographs.

I Want Lanvin not Flowers

2010-11-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Lanvin and H&M Designer Collaboration 2010

In selected stores and online on November 23rd*.
*November 20th in USA and Canada.

Monday Before Halloween

2010-10-24T23:28:00.000-07:00

It's that time again to get Your costumes out and see what can be improved.. There is still time, You know.. Kids are heaving autumn holidays at school so there is perfect way to entertain them and make something creative and scary..
I'm not saying I'm a big Halloween person myself, but there is some mystery and fun around. Get inspired!

I'm very grateful to my customer Will who had made his costume in Elizabethan style, and sheared his photos. Recognize the ruff, hehe?

btw You can catch Will on twitter if You want to!

xoxo

Playing With Tulle

2010-10-19T04:04:00.000-07:00

In deep need of some romantic inspiration, I played with tulle Yesterday. Here is what I came up with..
Black and white rainbow and black mysterious destiny. Laces are so beautiful here..
But no beading again, sorry ...

In Shakespeare's Dreams

2010-10-07T23:09:00.000-07:00

I was having strange nightmare about having to live in medieval society.. it was mix of theatrical, burlesque, mystical symbols, so in the morning I was completely ready to create something influenced by Shakespeare and dark medieval secrets.

It was even more - etsy has plenty of items inspired by literature and history these days, so I gathered some of my favorites in treasury. Welcome to C&C

Well.. Have a great and dreamy weekend!

Another Happy Customer

2010-09-25T07:22:00.001-07:00

This spooky rabbit girl is Sophie from Mansfield, UK, with her black wing.

Thanks a lot Sohuii!!

Always Flattering..

2010-09-22T00:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes i feel very insecure about my creations and how they are doing out there in big world. It is always soooooo good and flattering to hear some news from the new owners.. Minnie Valentine just send me a photo and note that it was taken with it for a streetstyle shoot and published in a fashion magazine called "Envy" a week ago. No idea about the magazine, couse I couldn't found it on google, but never mind.. It is good news anyway :))

Thanks Minnie!!!

Bling Bling Telephone..

2010-09-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

Pair of gold tone epaulettes with rich selection of Swarovski crystals, Bohemian cristals, Czech glass beads and yellow metal chains.
Really heavy piece. inspired by Lady Gagas "Telephone"

Lady Gaga ft. Beyonce "Telephone"

New Wings

2010-07-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

I've tried new wing design.
It is so hot here, that my mind is simply blank.

Enjoy!

Have You ever thought?

2010-07-07T00:01:00.001-07:00

Have You ever thought what happens with Your sold items when they are gone to their new homes?
Some are loved , some not maybe..
Look what I found searching through web. Not so happy about using my photos.. And not happy about reselling too. But what to do? Add watermarks for next time perhaps..

11,800 JPY if You are interested.. that's close to 130$ on Nocturner online site Japan.
It's worth searching through there, You can find something You've made too..

Ecouterre

2010-07-01T23:35:00.000-07:00

14 Ways to green the military fashion trend - by Jasmin Malik Chua (03/24/10)
Published on Ecouterre
Accidently found this article and was so surprised see my design on the list :)) YEEE!!

Ecouterre is a website devoted to the future of sustainable fashion design. They’re dedicated to showcasing and supporting designers who not only contemplate cut, form, and drape, but also a garment’s social and environmental impact, from the cultivation of its fibers to its use and disposal. Their mission: To follow the evolution of the apparel industry toward a more environmentally sound future, as well as facilitate a conversation about why sustainable fashion matters.

In September 2009, Jill Fehrenbacher, founder of sustainable-design website Inhabitat.com, launched Ecouterre to dispel any disparaging stereotypes that still cling to the concept of eco-fashion (hemp ponchos, anyone?), while highlighting innovations in fiber technology that will help pave the way for designers and manufacturers to embrace sustainable materials and processes.

Her goal with Ecouterre: To get both designers and consumers to start taking the issue of sustainability in clothing design more seriously. Frustrated by constant criticism for her fashion-design coverage from hardcore greenies and eco-snobs who dismiss the impact that clothing design has on our planet, Jill was compelled to launch a site dedicated exclusively to eco-fashion to raise awareness of these issues.

...WoW...

New Spikes In Town

2010-05-28T01:09:00.000-07:00

Blogger, Blogger On The Wall...

2010-05-05T22:09:00.000-07:00

Who is the most beautiful of all...

My faithful model Klinta of course :)

And rocky Glam Rock epaulettes..

Punks Never Die

2010-04-30T06:41:00.001-07:00

at least in Bollywood :)

Monday Moodboard - Feeling Spring

2010-04-19T01:05:00.001-07:00

Modern Hungary - Bloom - necklace by vadjutka

Blossom Melancholy by JKphotography

Spring Dresses Earrings by lacravatteduchien

Crochet pattern PDF- Dragon by sofiasobeide

If you would like to see what other mood other EST people are in today, you can find it out by visiting
fleur fatale's blog

Mantra

2010-04-17T23:03:00.000-07:00

oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ

tát savitúr váreṇyaṃ
bhárgo devásya dhīmahi
dhíyo yó naḥ prachodáyāt

Drama Queen

2010-04-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

It is sooooo hard to take black and red objects in photos..
They change color and every imperfection is double visible.
Well .. I'm learning..

These two are brother and sister with similar filigrees and ropes, just different color combination.. black one still waiting for a new owner, red one is gone..

Make Your Shoulders Dance

2010-04-09T12:09:00.000-07:00

New coquette wing harness to make Your shoulders dance like bar maid in old vestern movie..
Fringes and feathers, chains and red mesh.

Nancy The General

2010-03-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

I always wanted to see how my pieces look on their new owners.. Thank You Nancy for shearing Your photos and inspiration! I even didn't recognize my epaulettes on Your shoulders, they look so organic!
If You want to meet Nancy, You are welcome to visit her creative blog , full of fashion and her fantastic illustrations!

http://www.xiaoxizhang.com/

New Packaging

2010-03-27T01:04:00.000-07:00

I found perfect cardboard for my packaging boxes, easy to fold and good looking.
From this day this will be my #1 choice.

Etsy Goes Euro!

2010-03-25T00:53:00.001-07:00

Euro week 2010

Finally the spring is here and I made few chain and feathers wings inspired by romance and hopes
and long fringe of course LoL

Fairytale in Paris

2010-03-11T22:32:00.000-08:00

I was very honored and flattered to make epalettes for young latvian fashion journalist Agnese Kleina before her visit to Paris, and here they are on her own shoulders.. Found the pics on her blog and couldn't resist reposting LoL

I recommend You to dive in to her blog Whimsical Agnesiga and find juicy and fresh look at her travels, thoughts and fashion life here in Latvia.

As for me now, I'm deep in sewing new designs between making copies of the previous ones.
Here is sneak preview of burlap epaulette I made doubting about the strange combination of materials. But it fly away so fast that I'm not in doubt anymore :)

Vogue Military Issue March 2010

2010-02-24T00:31:00.000-08:00

With the Spring 2010 season on our doorstep many a fashion publication is taking stock of the new season's styles. In the March 2010 issue US Vogue pick apart the 2010 evolution of the military fashion trend, highlighting pieces from the likes of Burberry Prorsum and Chloe.

Right on top!

Melting blues away..

2010-02-21T00:23:00.000-08:00

Last week was so strange for me.. lot's of snow here in Latvia , melting icicles dropping from roofs and I was in the *doing nothing* phase.
And then came Thursday and stars made some astrological positive loop around me, because there were two publications that made me move much faster..
First one was interview with binka un some local portal written by Rita Pētersone - Lazdiņa. It is all in latvian and featuring few of my creations. here is the link to that
And in the same day Etsy admin marymary choosed my epaulette and title for her storque spotlight! Wow.. and then started blast of interest and wiews and convos from etsy people... wow! First time in my etsy history I had so much attention in such a short time LOL
here is link to that

Well thanks to both these features I'll be very busy right now with no time to languish and drone.
Well, back to work :) here are first epaulettes that I made yesterday. Based on same chain reaction idea here is even more spiky variation :

Celebrating 100 !!!

2010-02-17T11:42:00.000-08:00

With this funky brooch..

Clean Look FP

2010-02-12T01:09:00.000-08:00

It was ages ago when I managed to catch my latest treasury, but this time I was lucky, and the rocky list made it to the FP Yesterday night..Yeee!!! *happy happy dance*

Congratulations to arosha, Maikai, underheroot, reddoll, kikihuston, SarahRobin, whitemetal, printlibe, SandFibers, SmArtAnna, litarbags, OhHelloThere, karaku and coutureNsparkles!

Extreme Fringe Trend 2010

2010-02-10T22:41:00.001-08:00

There are many fashion trends which are updated every season. In this way fringe dress fashion trend is also fast catching up. Fringe dresses style isn't restricted to various dresses. It's also used in various types of handbags and shoes. Normally women choose fringe dresses in case of party, evening or formal wear. You can fing varied types of fringe dresses according to different lenghts (short or long). Fringe dressed till knee lenght is perfect for any party occasion.

pics & post from http://fashionstyleme.co.cc and http://www.intstyle.com/accessories---/spring-2010-accessory-trends

Babbette Epaulette in New York

2010-02-06T01:36:00.000-08:00

Designer Seville Michelle Anastos

Fantastic epaulettes available here
http://thestore.babetteepaulette.com/

Binkaminkas world invasion

2010-02-06T00:58:00.000-08:00

Celebrating 1000 hearts of binkaminkas shop I created a virtual map of my sold items using google maps. You are welcome to travel with binkaminkas airlines :))

direct link to the map

I was very excited about this google gadget. Fun stuff I recommend to try out!

Ready To Travel

2010-02-05T23:34:00.000-08:00

Black velvet, brass filigree and chains, black swarovski crystals and very very long fringe.
Trendy if You are in Australia! LoL But so far looks like it is going to find new home in Baltimore, Maryland :)

..childhood memories..

2010-01-26T07:09:00.001-08:00

This brooch looks like doll skirt LoL

Crocheted beauty from Italy

2010-01-16T02:18:00.000-08:00

I'm very proud to show You what creative Francesca made using silk threads bought from binkaminka shortly before Christmas. Italy has a great talant :)
She is having fantastic delicate and fragile crocheted silk earring collection and there are coming more soon! Visit her shop escaodesign to see more gorgeous creations!

Fresh Colors

2009-12-29T03:30:00.001-08:00

new epaulettes for Sara

What a day :)

2009-12-17T13:25:00.001-08:00

Btw the brides dress is made by me :)
Thank You Māra for shearing this fantastic video!

Be My General...

2009-11-26T23:19:00.000-08:00

I had a custom order for pair of epauettes. Struggling with materials, but here they are >>

More detailed pics in my shop :)

Origami is fun!

2009-11-19T09:17:00.000-08:00

Origami sis traditional Japanese art of paper folding. I tried to make some textile origami flowers and here they are >> had lot's of fun doing this :) I must say I was cheating - used few stitches to hold flowers together.The goal of original origami is to create a representation of an object using geometric folds and crease patterns preferably without gluing or cutting the paper, and using only one piece of paper.

European MoodBoard

2009-09-21T05:10:00.001-07:00

There are lot's of fun in autumn breezes!

jezek
lapomme
fleurfatale
nightcloud

White Night in Riga 2009

2009-09-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

White Night 2009

Contemporary culture festival White Night 2009 will take place
between September 12 and 13 and its program will feature
over 20 art, theater, music, motion and survival projects for everyone to enjoy.
Entry to all events is free of charge.

I'd love to go out, but I have to stay with kids.. we had a long walk earlier through the city that was getting ready for the party..
mm I wish I was younger again..

More Yoga :)

2009-09-10T11:51:00.000-07:00

I love yoga and Yoga loves me :))
That's what my friend found While was waiting me home from it LOL
click to enlarge!

Linen Necklaces

2009-09-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

Inspired by some old housekeeper book I've started new line of necklaces, that seems to be pretty unique and original.

They look almost antiquarian and oldschool.. I guess few will follow soon LOL

Off to holyday

2009-07-31T00:59:00.000-07:00

For my Etsy lovers - HOLIDAY NOTICE!
I WILL BE ON HOLIDAY TILL AUGUST 13TH. ALL ORDERS FROM TODAY WILL BE SHIPPED ON AUGUST 15TH. I WON'T BE ABLE TO REPLY ANY EMAILS AND CONVOS, BUT I AM VERY HAPPY TO OFFER YOU FREE SHIPPING FOR ALL MY ITEMS, EVEN MORE - EVERY SALE GET'S A FREE MYSTERY GIFT!
HAVE A GREAT SUMMER FRIENDS!

Here is my buy buy treasury Summer of love

And Storyteller

Keep on crafting and don't forget to have a great summer romance!

Friday Ghosts

2009-07-24T05:48:00.000-07:00

I crocheted new hairpiece for beautiful brides, used laces and glass pearls, vintage buttons as well. Underneath the piece is Riga's satellite map , if You asked :)

Suddenly I noticed too many hearts for one of my necklaces, checked it on the craftcult and - vuala - here it is - gorgeous FP by

jessjamesjake

Here is one of the fantastic vintage pieces from her shop!

Thank You jessjamesjake so much!
You brought the 600th heart to my shop :)

And happy for all that, I made very geeky treasury, just because I felt like dizzy queen :)

Thank You for the long time reading, happy weekend with no rains and have fun crafting next week again!

Storyteller

2009-07-21T05:47:00.000-07:00

My Storyteller Treasury yesterday made it to the FP! YEY!!!
Most of all I'm happy for all the featured artists and for three sales from FP!

Great way to start a day! Happy crafting folks!

New Pearl Earrings

2009-07-14T12:33:00.000-07:00

Borrowed camera from my sister and made quick photos of my latest earrings. Here they are all together, romantic as wedding night. They are very simple and very cheap, LOL, I don't feel very inspired in this hot summer time and counting days till vacation :)

These Fallen Angel Earrings are my entry to this weeks europeanstreetteam challenge "colors which make you happy" hosted by iragrant .

Happy crafting friends and lot's of fun!

Neticamā Krievija

2009-07-13T01:21:00.000-07:00

garlaikojos caurskatot visādus svešus blogus.. Nu šis foto mani sajūsmināja :))
Vairāk te http://davelouisphotos.blogspot.com/

Labu apetīti!

Sketching ..

2009-07-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

My camera broke.. I feel almost sick..
I have made some new items, but can't list them without the pics.. grrr
Started to sketch for my clients ..and this is not the final drawing.. just work in progress..

blush in the rush

2009-06-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

My new passion - beaded beads :))
I tried to make them using some schemes from the net, but finally figured out, that you need exact size beads for good result. So I tried to make them up myself and see what I came up to >>>

BTW the voting on http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/ is open till june 15! You are welcome! ( My favorite is Nr 13 if you wanted to know :)) )

To Let Go

2009-06-11T21:53:00.000-07:00

emcisaac , my european teammate says:

Let Go
To “let go” does not mean to stop caring,
it means I can’t do it for someone else.

To “let go” is not to cut myself off,
it’s the realization I can’t control another.

To “let go” is not to enable,
but to allow learning from natural consequences.

To “let go” is to admit powerlessness,
which means the outcome is not in my hands.

To “let go” is not to try to change or blame another,
it’s to make the most of myself.

To “let go” is not to care for,
but to care about.

To “let go” is not to fix,
but to be supportive.

To “let go” is not to judge,
but to allow another to be a human being.

To “let go” is not to be in the middle arranging the outcomes,
but to allow others to affect their own destinies.

To “let go” is not to be protective,
it’s to permit another to face reality.

To “let go” is not to deny,
but to accept.

To “let go” it not to nag, scold or argue,
but instead to search out my own shortcomings, and correct them.

To “let go” is not to adjust everything to my desires
but to take each day as it comes,
and cherish myself in it.

To “let go” is not to criticize and regulate anybody
but to try to become what I dream I can be.

To “let go” is not to regret the past,
but to grow and live for the future.

To “let go” is to fear less,
and love more.

Virtual Lab Notes - Relevant Search

2009-06-06T03:18:00.000-07:00

This article is copy-paste from The Seed Box blog - very useful information for etsy sellers!

The virtual lab was held today. It was only about an hour long and so many people were asking different questions. It was a whirlwind of questions and answers. The Admin did a good job of trying to keep up as best they could with all the questions flying around.

The focus was mainly on attracting buyers to your shop with descriptions etc... There was some discussion on tags and the relevant search, but I was actually disappointed that not much of the information given was new or terribly helpful. I feel no more informed as I was before the virtual lab. But some points were raised that may be helpful to some of you reading this. So I will outline the information that was given by admin in respect to the relevant search.

TAGS:

There are 4 categories in your listing that the relevant search will look for in regards to key words. The first category that the "search" will look at is; the item tags, then title, description, and the materials last.
The default search (not the relevant search) only looks at tags then titles.
The Admin specified that right now tag order does not really matter, but it will soon. So to re-order the tags in order of relevance is important.
Use all 14 of your tags with appropriate key words that are specific to the item
Adding tags such as color and your shop name are important
Choosing the main sub category tag is important so your item goes into the appropriate category on Etsy.
Adding team tags do not lower your search rank.
Plurals of words (flower - flowers) are seen as the same thing by the search. You do not need to add both. One will be enough.
Google will search for most relevant key words within the first 50-60 characters. Make sure the beginning of your title has the most descriptive aspects of the item in order to be picked up by Google.

TITLES:

Be specific when creating the title for your shop. They said not to make your titles too long or short. That up to about 8 words in the title was pretty good. Make it attractive yet informative for the buyer.
The title will be the second area that the relevant search and the main search will look at for key words, so make sure the most specific ones are there. Example: Handmade Peppermint Glycerin Soap
Dont just put tags in the description. You still need to make the title informative and attractive.
Don't add things like "free shipping" or "sale" in the title. Add those to your tags and description instead.

DESCRIPTION:

Google will look at the first 160 characters in your description for relevancy and search ranking. Keep this in mind when making your description. Being found on both Etsy and Google searches is important. So try and add the most important and accurate info in the first paragraph of your description.
Breaking your description up into easy to read paragraphs or bullets is recommended. Try to weave your relevant key words into the description, but do it in a coherant and attractive way so it does not turn off your customers.
Add dimensions, sizes, ingredients etc... to your descriptions.
You can add a hyperlink to your description that leads the customer to your policies page instead of repeating policies in the item descriptions.

Materials:

Right now materials are the last thing that the relevant search will look at. But the Admin mentioned something about having a materials search in the future.
Add the materials used for the item only. Add them like you would tags, with the most important first and so on.

So that was basically what was discussed at the virtual lab today in regards to searches. I had written a previous article that will clarify these points in more detail here.

I know this is probably very confusing and overwhelming. I had a headache after the virtual lab ;) Hopefully this helps you better understand the tagging and searching process on Etsy. And feel free to write any concerns or questions in the comments. I will be reading them and trying to clarify anything I can.

Need Luck?

2009-05-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

This weeks Europeanstreetteam challenge theme is Cheap but gorgeous, hosted by my Latvian friend Rita alias Alatvian. As I have lot's of projects to work on, I created very fast and simple earrings fit for chinese princess or funky city girl. There is mix of plastic and glass beads and even svarovski crystals, and on the top of it are chinese cinnabar pentagons inscribed with symbols of good luck and long life.

And while I was writing this, luck came to me as etsy admin FP ! Don't believe it LOL

Friends Shoulder Bag

2009-05-24T04:33:00.000-07:00

Just finished this funky bag as an experiment - could I'll be able to make edges right.. it was tough, but finally I'm happy with result!

This bag is featured on antigoni blog where she is hosting this weeks est challenge La Vita e Bella - Because life is beautiful that way... This is the soundtrack of Benigni's film "La vita e bella" a great movie that she loves very much...

and you can listen to it here.

.. and the bag of course, is available in my shop
Welcome!

This Touched Me..

2009-05-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

The power of positivity :)

"Validation" is a fable about the magic of free parking. Starring TJ Thyne & Vicki Davis. Writer/Director/Composer - Kurt Kuenne. Winner - Best Narrative Short, Cleveland Int'l Film Festival, Winner - Jury Award, Gen Art Chicago Film Festival, Winner - Audience Award, Hawaii Int'l Film Festival, Winner - Best Short Comedy, Breckenridge Festival of Film, Winner - Crystal Heart Award, Best Short Film & Audience Award, Heartland Film Festival, Winner - Christopher & Dana Reeve Audience Award, Williamstown Film Festival, Winner - Best Comedy, Dam Short Film Festival, Winner - Best Short Film, Sedona Int'l Film Festival.

Then and Now

2009-05-15T06:49:00.000-07:00

My EST teammate vadjutka has very interesting blog project featuring multiple artist first creations! Have a look at the blog!
And now mine are included too. Thank you, Judit!

Silver Crow Tote Bag

2009-05-15T06:29:00.000-07:00

I had made crows earlier, here is my first - big brother green crow (dates approx. 2006)

But this one is his smaller brother, and goes stright to carmenesque blog
where she is hosting this week est challenge BIRDS..

This tote bag I made from scraps and leftovers of fabric and lace. It is decorated with metalic shine crow applique. Perhaps it will have some smaller brother soon.. Let's see..

Moms are Heroes

2009-05-13T23:57:00.000-07:00

Previous was hard week for me. Lots of unfinished local projects and bills, bills, bills in the mailbox made me depressed and angry. As a result here are my two treasuries -

...want to scream...

and ...strings and wings...

Then came mothers day..

I made treasury thinking of my mom and her favorite grey and blues. admin choose it to be on FP on monday morning. When my mom came, I showed her the list, and her absolute favorite was Iris the Optimist by yourdoll. Just what I needed - a little drop of optimism and love from my family and mom.

And now - have to continue crafting and hope for the better times :)

And thank you for those who included my items in their treasuries. It is good to feel support and big shoulder of your team behind :)

How To Use E-Talons

2009-05-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Riga Traffic - Rīgas Satiksme invented new system of paying for your bus, trolley or tram tour.. Here is short instruction how to use new E-talons :))

EBWC Red Carpet Voting is Open!

2009-05-10T09:14:00.000-07:00

The entries for the challenge are in! As always they are simply beautiful, creative and amazing! Twenty-one Etsy Beadweavers have the talent and took the time to create these wonderful and inspiring challenge pieces! Using tiny little beads and a needle and thread along with incredible patience EBW bring these selections to you to vote and choose your favourite.

New FP New Listings..

2009-05-08T02:46:00.000-07:00

Here are my stripy linen items- tote bag and pincushion - they are from recycled linen fabric in soft pastels with a true natural linen scent.

The bag goes to LeelaBijou hosted est team challenge Inspired by a movie, and this one is inspired by The Bridges of Madison County

Staroftheeast curated wonderful euros treasury and it made to a FP

There has been more than 10 treasuries this week featuring my items.. and I am very happy for that, thank you very much!!! no time to upload them now, maybe later..

And The Winner Is...

2009-05-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

Beautiful LeelaBijou with her hypnotizing Insomnia Ring!!!
Because I see insomnia and passion and love in it!!

Congratulations Leela!!!

EST Weekly Challenge - INSOMNIA

2009-04-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

European Street Team has a very stimulating weekly challenges hosted by team members.. Unexpectedly Karuski choose my Blue Flowers Pincushion as a winner for weeks theme MY FLOWERS

So now it's my time to announce the new theme - INSOMNIA
Not very original, when we talk about crafters and art related people, couse lot's of our ideas comes from hours and hours of sleepless nights and early mornings when mind is full of surreal ideas.
But that makes this theme totally free - you are welcome join in with your entries by next Monday at 21.00 Latvia time (GMT +2), please convo me through Etsy. I will add all entries to my blog as they're coming in.
Good Luck crafting! And sleep tight tonight!

And here we go!

alatvian - Divided Heart for Mom/Dad

YLOjewelry - Insomnia Necklace Lava with Turquoise and Silver

kraplap - Caffeine Molecule Coaster

staroftheeast - Insomnia Necklace

karuski - R o s e earrings

karmologyclinic - Maze Embroidered Coasters

swiedebie - Insomnia

amoronia - Insomnia Fly Brooch

vaisto - Night of Lizard - leather cuff

ingermaaike - Insomnia handspun BFL yarn

Vilte - Night Butterflies

Ayca - ThE CoLoR Of The NiGhT...

toosis - Red and Yellow eye Ring

strumpfkunst - INSOMNIAC Sock Monkey

Sumikoshop - Owl Bracelet

psarokokalo - Eye pincushion

LeelaBijou - Insomnia Ring

Kreativlink - Insomnia, Painted Fabric Journal

Here is mine sweet welcome to my blog- I am Listening Eye Mask

Thank You All!!!

Few More Pincushions

2009-04-27T13:54:00.001-07:00

I had scraps of natural linen fabric - too small to make something wearable, and I decided to continue the theme with pincushions and add some lace to brighten them up.. few beads as well - I think they make perfect gift for someone who loves sewing and needlework.

Scarlett Corset Story

2009-04-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Some time ago my teammate from Latvian unofficial beaders club žagatasbode Sandija involved me in some very interesting project- She wanted to make bead embroidery on corset. Choice of color was stunning - bright red, as bright as her talent is.. So we started.. and after two months here is the result - corset fit to the princess, spoled girl or fragile lady.

Sandija is a blogger to, You can visit her blog and see her beautiful beadworks here: http://sandijastreinerte.blogspot.com/

Treasuries Of The Week

2009-04-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

Etsy International by CiaffiSand in my shoes by XauXau

White light by CocoBeans

all 4 you mom by theBeadAerie

I wasn't sure about those pincushions, but in the first week they made up to FP.

Thank You Ladies! It is so great!

To Bead Or Not To Bead...

2009-04-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have very much doubts lately about my etsy shop and beaded things in it.. probably it's up to bad economics, but the tiredness is so obvious. I just can't bead when my head is bumping around with stupid news on tv, screaming politicians and so on.. Have some stunning custom projects, that are gonna be finished soon. And as a relax therapy for myself made some pincushion from linen. Some beads jumped on it as well, so I guess, not everything is lost. Just have to take some timeaut ..

EBW April Challenge - Time Machine Winner!

2009-04-17T01:12:00.000-07:00

The April EBW Challenge had 31 entries, with 629 votes in total, and 119 of them went to the winner - 12. Time machine - beadsbyvezsuzs.

Congratulations!!!

I love treasuries!

2009-04-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

And I love all the curators that put their imagination and time creating lists of beauties and real treasures.. I've been lucky again and been featured in so many beautiful treasuries this week, that I just run around smiling and laughing all the time. You just have to see them! Thank you friends!!!

SURE by happyment

222 by diraline

Pink Spring by YLOjewelry
Hot And Very Cool by nansglam
Done in the fly.. by pjlacasse
It's a woman's world by vilte
Time travel with EBW team by nemeton
EBWC by enchantedbeads
Tripy by vaisto
Beadwoven Nr.2 by MacrameByMaja
And here are two mine child's of imagination
Sepia dreams
Make Me SmileThank you ladies! And let's do it again!

Etsy BeadWeavers April Challenge - Time Machine

2009-04-09T00:35:00.001-07:00

The entries for the challenge are in! They are as always simply beautiful, creative and amazing! Etsy Beadweavers took the time and have the talent to create these inspiring challenge pieces! Tiny little beads and a needle and thread along with incredible patience bring these selections to you to vote and choose your favourite at etsy beadweavers blog !