Being an Etsy Customer

I have purchased from Etsy before.  However, it has been a while since I've actually down more than just browsing, or "window shopping" on etsy.  I was excited that this assignment would be a good excuse to buy something fun and unique from etsy.

I just moved into a new house a few months ago, and i'm still always on the lookout for fun decorative objects.

I wanted something that was actually handmade, so I started looking for different types of drawings and paintings.  Immediately it appeared that the paintings were out of my price range, so I switched up to drawings.  I searched for the word pinup because this is a style of drawing that I like.  I came upon a picture of a pinup style angel that I really liked.  Even better, the drawing was 25 dollars, well within my price range.  I was even more interested in the drawing after finding out that it was being sold by a prisoner's outreach program for inmates who are transgendered.  I am very interested in art as a medium for healing, learning, and rehabilitation, so this sealed the deal for me.

After confirming my order and paying with paypal, I waited.  While it only took 5 days for the drawing to arrive, the seller didn't send me an email letting me know that the art had shipped or a tracking number by which to follow its delivery progress.

When the art did finally arrive, it was securely packaged in a padded envelope.  There was a handwritten note of thanks from the artist.  Even better, the drawing was even more detailed and impressive in person than it was in the photograph.  I am already waiting for the artist to finish more work.

What I liked most about this purchase is just how smooth the transaction went, and especially the high quality of the product.  I learned how much customers can be influenced by the story behind the art or the artist.

I believe that making your customer feel that your item is truly unique and allowing them to relate to your story compels them to purchase.  This shows me how important it will be to write good descriptions and profile that allows the customer to make a connection.

Five Etsy Picks for a Cold February

Find five Etsy handmade products that you like. Write a blog on why you like each product. Write also in your blog at least 3 possible ways to make each product better.

It is far too cold for the South right now.  Especially without the holidays to look forward to...nothing but cold, dreary February.  Personally, I have a hard time motivating myself to look cute and dress with a little creativity when the weather is so inclimate...But these Etsy picks might make the cold a little more bearable.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/60825819/heart-strings-headband?ref=v1_other_2

An adorable headband with a large, whimsical crocheted heart.  I would love this even more as a clip on barrette, or two as earmuffs!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/60898650/the-skipper-peacoat-medium?ref=v1_other_2

While technically not something I can wear, my pup, Miss Busy, definately gets chilly these days.  I love the classic cut and blue color, but more colors, especially a girly pink, or a fun pattern, would be welcome.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/63605804/russian-ushanka

I love headgear...hats, hairclips, barrettes.  It really doesn't matter.  In the winter, I love them even more.  This sweet, girly hat looks like it would keep my head pretty warm.  I just wish it didn't have these big, santa-hat pompoms on it.  Sometimes less is more.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48070314/chainmaille-knit-scarf

A girl can never have too many scarves. Especially in February.  The chainlink pattern on this one is so unique! It looks more like a necklace than just something to keep your neck warm.  I wish this scarf was available in slightly more luxe yarns, though.  Wool isn't my favorite.  I would love a silk blend or kashmir.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/61395067/felted-slippers-orange-flower-decorated?ref=v1_other_2

Nothing is worse than cold feet when the rest of you is warm.  I love these colorful slippers...and they look very cozy.  I would love if these were made into booties, so the tops of your feet could be just as toasty!

WELL.

Here's to hoping that it warms up a little.  Until then though, remember that you can be cute and cozy.