Her letter read in part, “My craft recently came to an abrupt end as costs soared out of control. … it all became cost prohibitive and I am dead in the water. I have searched the Internet for another source but the price is the same everywhere. … Any advice or suggestion you have would be greatly appreciated.” (Read Marion’s full letter by clicking here.)

Not only were we able to find the special inks Marion needed at one-third less, but we also were able to advise her of the patent battle waging over this key component of her craft. Given this heads up, Marion will be able to monitor the progress of the lawsuits and plan the future of her business.

Finally we were able to offer some alternative materials that Marion can start experimenting with now, just in case. Who knows, she may develop a whole new art form!

My point in relaying this story is to illustrate how The Artful Crafter is here to help. Helping you helps us to build a better site for all our readers. Whether they’re business issues or technical questions or anything related to crafting, we do our best to provide you high quality and timely responses.

Eileen

Put Your Artwork Anywhere

As a follow-up to Marion’s question, we did some experimenting ourselves and put up several how-to articles on Lazertran Waterslide Decals.

If you’re looking for an economical way to transfer photos (whether scanned or digital) or artwork (whether computer generated or scanned) onto an artifact, you need to know about Lazertran Waterslide Decals.

Think of the possibilities: a quilt with family photos on some of the panels; tote bags with a club logo; custom t-shirts; glass, ceramic, wood or metal plaques, coasters and plates; wood trays and tables; candles; clay or polymer clay bowls and vases … It boggles the creative mind! Read more by clicking here.

Original Patterns by Eileen

Perhaps like you, I tend to think of my designs as just common sensical and not that unique. I know the products are popular because I have sold so many of these items; but I figured they appeal to people who aren’t interested in making things themselves.

So imagine how pleasantly surprised I was when I started to put a few e-patterns for sale on our web site and people actually bought them! The sales and the customer feedback have both been very gratifying.

If you haven’t found them while surfing around The Artful Crafter, please check them out. These products are BIG SELLERS, every one.

Panadiere Fabric Bread Basket.

Tote Bag in Pouch.

Poncho in Pouch.

Travel Document Security Pouch.

You can find my many free patterns on the website by typing “pattern” in the Google search box. Be sure to select The Artful Crafter before clicking on the Search button.

Reader’s Letter of the Month

I’m closing this issue with Marion’s gracious thanks for our research. This is what makes it all worthwhile.

Dear Eileen,

Wow! I am majorly impressed with all the information you were able to find on dye-sub and the Italian company!!! All the information is extremely interesting and vital to my hobby / business direction for the future. I will check TOG out for sure; the water decals sound interesting too if I can use my own images. I will be checking them out as well.

I must admit that I have found no one and nothing that comes anywhere near as close as you and your research in the way of being helpful! You are most assuredly the best!!

Very grateful, Marion

Juried Art Show

Every Columbus Day Weekend the National Capital Orchid Society has a three day show and sale at the National Arboretum in Washington DC.

This very prestegious show has over 6000 people attend to see and buy!

This year they have added a class for 'Decoupage'.

The show is open to anyone, artist, photographer, fine craftsman, the only stipulation is that orchids must be featured.

The schedule, rules and regulations won't be ready until early summer but a good decoupeur needs a lot of lead time.

Date of show is Oct 7-9,2006, but entries must have been received by Oct 4.