Karisma by Kara Handcrafted Jewelry

Holiday Fair 2010

2010-12-08T18:18:00.001-08:00

The Holiday Fair was a success but more importantly...it's over! Whew! Preparing for that show was exhausting, but I thoroughly enjoyed the actual event. This week I will be mailing out Etsy orders, preparing jewelry to send off to a couple shops & hosting a jewelry party at my home. Next Saturday, the 18th, I will be selling at Liz Daly Designs from 1-5pm. And then... CHRISTMAS! I don't really have big plans for the holiday but I just love Christmas. It would be wonderful if it would snow but that is unlikely here in South Carolina:( But, I do have my magical snow that I can put on my window sills! Maybe watch all the Christmas movies while sipping some hot chocolate...Definitly need to make some white almond bark covered pretzels-mmm! Anyhow, my point is that I plan to RELAX! And I hope you all do the same:)
Here are some pics of my booth at the Holiday Fair. Notice my new neckboards and my use of tree stumps:)

Cyber Monday & Holiday Fair

2010-11-28T19:47:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with friends and family. I know we did! I was even able to rest up a little in preparation for the hustle and bustle of the next few weeks. I'm exhausted just thinking about all the upcoming events!

Tommorrow is Cyber Monday and I will be offering 10% off EVERYTHING in my Etsy shop! Simply enter the code CHRISTMAS10 when checking out. This sale will end at midnight on November 30th.

Also, you won't want to miss out on the Holiday Fair THIS WEEK! December 2-4. All jewelry(excludes cords, sterling silver chains, necklace extenders and gift boxes) will be 10% off. In addition to the 10% discount, each customer who spends $100 or more will draw for an additional percentage off (5%, 10%, 15% or a FREE pair of earrings valued at $12 or less)!

Haywood Mall Show

2010-10-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hey there! I am feeling so relieved right now! Tara, my assistant, came over to help me get some errands done so I could concentrate on preparing for the show this weekend. It's amazing how little tasks/errands can weigh you down and keep you from being productive. Getting those small things out of the way feels so great! It was also good to talk through ideas with her. Sometimes a girl just needs to talk! What's really great is that she is so clever with thinking of ingenious ideas for organization and running shows. We got a bit side tracked and started coming up with ideas for the Holiday Fair! I hadn't even thought about Christmas decorations! But we came up with some fun ideas and are even going to be making some cute clay snowflake ornaments:) She will be helping me with these. We also discussed the possibility of making neckboards rather than buying. I am still running ideas for this through my mind. I just hope that we can tackkle all of this before the big show!

Anyhow, stop by and see me at the Haywood mall this weekend, Oct. 22nd & 23rd!

Kobi Levi Footwear

2010-10-15T08:16:00.001-07:00

You've got to check these shoes out! They are pretty awesome! Very unique...

Kobi Levi Footwear

Giveaway and Earring BOGO Sale!

2010-10-14T16:13:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I apologize for not writing more frequently. I have been busily preparing for the holidays which are quickly approaching by the way;) I did want to let you know that I am having a giveaway on my FB page for a $25 gift certificate to my Etsy shop. I also wanted to let you know about my Exclusive FB BOGO Earring sale going on tommorrow! Make sure you stop by and take advantage of these opportunities:)

Fall Favorites Found on Etsy

2010-09-21T10:09:00.000-07:00

Blisscandle's Shop Candles

SatinandBirch's Shop Owl Soaps

HydraHeart's Shop Shoes

Dealing with a Bargain Hunter

2010-09-07T06:13:00.000-07:00

There have been a few times when selling at craft/art festivals and shows where I have been confronted by the dreaded bargain hunter. Some of these hunters have simply asked what deal I could give them (on top of the deals that I generally have at these events) and then let it go after I told them that I could not go any lower on my price. Other hunters have been much more persistant! I actually had a lady at my last event hassle my assistant while I was gone and then hassle me when I came back from lunch. I was already offering 20% off of any one item and offered to give her that discount for her entire order. That wasn't good enough for her. When we totaled her order up with sales tax she said that she didn't have enough money for sales tax(around $2). At that point, I just caved. She ended up getting a very good bargain! So after all the hassling, she walked out with a $29 necklace and $10 earrings for a flat $25! With tax and the 20% discount, this order should have come to $33.07. I do not mind throwing in an extra pair of earrings when a customer spends a certain amount or if they are a repeat customer. I enjoy taking care of my customers and suprising them with little extras in appreciation for their business. But I do not appreciate people who cheapen what I do and demand lower prices.

Since this incident, I have been going over how I will handle this situation should it ever arise again. I hope this will be of some help to you as you grow in your business. If you are one of these bargain hunters, I hope this post will give you insight and a new appreciation for the arts.

1. Art and craft fairs are not flea markets.

2. The goods at these events are handcrafted by small independant artists. Since we cannot often afford to by our supplies in bulk(thus receiving a discounted price) we are forced to have higher prices. But believe me, you are getting a great value! As independant artists, we take great care in each piece we create-our livelihood depends on our customer's satisfaction!

3. These events cost a significant amount of money to sell at. Artists and crafters at these events are trying to sell enough to cover that cost. Sadly, they often do not or may just break even.

4. There are many expenses to having your own business. These artists and craftsmen have much more money and time tied up into their products than you think! As I mentioned in the last point, we have to pay high prices just for the booths to sell our products. Much of our products are on consignment and we only recieve 60% of the sticker price and the store receives the other 40%. There are also the costs of the printed materials, display costs, and much more. We have to consider all of these things when pricing our pieces.

5. I believe that many people have a misunderstanding of how much we make. Many people see that we sometimes leave a show with a decent amount of sales. But, keep in mind that we do not get paid bi-weekly. This is our paycheck for the month or sometimes several months.

6. Independant artists and craftsmen work extremely hard! I know I typically wake up around 7am and work until midnight. I don't get a day off because there is always something to do. If I were to get paid for my time it would probably be very depressing:)

I write all this to first of all to encourage other independant artists to value the work you do and be confident in charging what you need to. People who appreciate the quality of your work and the care you have put into it will gladly pay your price. The second reason I have written this post is to hopefully instill an appreciaton of the arts into everyone who reads this:)

Upstate Women's Show

2010-09-05T13:33:00.001-07:00

Well, the Upstate Women's Show has come and gone. I really feel that the show was a great business investment. Not only did I make sales but I also met some wonderful business people who offered tips and advice on running my own business. On top of this, I also met two store owners that would like to carry my jewelry. I have actually contacted one and already have jewelry in her shop. I still need to contact the other one.
Here are some pictures of my booth...

Myself in front of my display...

August Jewelry Giveaway on FB!

2010-08-03T04:55:00.000-07:00

I have posted this month's giveaway on Karisma's FB page! Be sure to participate for your chance to win this necklace! I can make this necklace in any name and most words.

Banners in Action

2010-08-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

I recently started a new Etsy shop where I sell pre-made Etsy shop banners as well as custom designed banners. Check out a few of the shops that have chosen KMGraphics to give their shop a new, fresh look!

recycledcufflinks.etsy.com

momiko.etsy.com

montanawest.etsy.com

Iowa!

2010-08-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

Young Corn by Grant Wood

Kim and me outside the American Gothic house.

I've been back for a few days from my trip to Iowa and am just now finding the time to sit down and recollect all of the wonderful memories that were made on this trip. My sister Kelley and I drove to Tennessee to pick my sister Kim up and then continued to drive all the way to good ol' Iowa!

On our way home we stopped in Eldon, Iowa to see the American Gothic house. I had always wanted to visit this place because I love Grant Wood. Kimberly and I dressed up like the couple in the painting and had a few pictures taken:) It was pretty fun!

We arrived safely at home a couple hours later(obviously) and then spent the next couple days in Corydon, Iowa with Grandma. (My other sister, Kristen, was also visiting for a few days. She had to get back to work so we didn't get to spend as much time with her).

Grandma's house is always so peacful and plenty of wonderful memories were made there this past trip. One memory that I will forever remember is when Aunt Sassy told Grandma that her hair was pink! That was probably the funniest dialogue I have ever heard! Aunt Sassy asked her if she had used the wrong jug or somethin' :) And Grandma, of course, flipped!:) Too funny! Grandma's hair was not pink though-it was just the lighting.

On a more serious note, I also learned some things about my Grandma's past. I knew that she had lost her first husband when my mom was only 12 years old but I did not know that she had lost her mother that same year. While listening to my mom and Grandma talk about this my mom said something to the affect that she, as a young girl, didn't understand the grief that her mother was going through. My grandma replied that she didn''t even understand it. As a young widow with two young kids and no job she, of course, was scared to death. But my grandma persevered and managed to raise two wonderful children. God is so good!

After our visit with Grandma we went home and prepared for a garage sale. While we were working on the garage sale, Kelley painted Mom's bedroom. We accomplished quite a bit and still managed to squeeze in a few fun activities here and there.

One of the days we had lunch at the Machine Shed and then took some fun photos afterward. Another day we went to Valley Junction and looked around at all the super cute shops. While we were there we came across a super cute antique shop where I found a beautiful wooden chair for $25!

I'll continue this topic another day:)

Kara

Jewelry Pics are Here!

2010-07-30T16:33:00.000-07:00

My friend, Elle, was kind enough to model my jewelry and take photos of her friends modeling my jewelry as well:) She did a great job!:)

Atlanta!

2010-07-12T14:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I went with a friend (another jewelry maker) to Atlanta, Georgia to shop for beads. It was last minute when she called so I was not really prepared to go bead shopping. But I thought it would be fun anyways and I had an extra $30... Well, let's just say I had a blast and $30 was not enough-I went waaaaaay over my budget. Gulp. But I did find some amazing beads:) Here are just a few of the pieces that I was able to make with my new beads...

Fall is coming!

2010-07-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Yay! I am probably the only person on earth who looks forward to Summer ending. I could do without this season entirely. I am so excited that Fall is right around the corner. I LoVe Fall! I love the crisp, cool air, the smell, the colors, and on and on... Oh, and I must say that the clothes are soooo much cuter in the Fall:) I am scheming away for new Fall jewelry designs. I already have enough turquoise-although I did read that that was the color this year. I'm hoping I can find awesome jewel colored beads. I always have trouble with finding natural stones in the colors I want. I may have to break out and use more glass... Great jewelry to come, so stay tuned!

Kara

Meow.

2010-07-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

My newest print. Soon to be on notecards!

Coming Soon...

2010-07-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

Note card set #1. I am going to do a series of these note card sets:)

KMGraphics Shop Now Open!

2010-07-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/KMGraphics

I have just re-opened my Etsy shop, KMGraphics, where I sell both pre-made and custom Etsy banners. I will also be selling notecards, glass tile pendants, and hopefully pocket mirrors-all featuring my fun, vibrant, original graphics! Here's a peak at what you will find there...

Giveaway on FaceBook & Etc.

2010-07-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

Just letting everyone know that I have posted July's giveaway on my Karisma by Kara Facebook page! All you have to do is copy/share the post about the giveaway onto your FaceBook page and then write on my wall letting me know that you shared. Also, feel free to "like" my page:)

Also, I am very excited to be visiting my mom in Iowa for a couple weeks this month. I will keep my Etsy shop open but may not be able to ship out all of the purchases until I get back. I will be taking many of my supplies and some jewelry with me so I will be able to mail out some while I am there. If you happen to live near Des Moines, feel free to contact me and perhaps I can arrange a time to meet you somewhere to see my jewelry:)

My three sisters will be visiting as well and we are planning on helping mom have a garage sale and do some fixing up to her house. Hopefully we will be able to re-decorate her room:) It's going to be so much fun!

In the meantime, I have a lot of things to do here before the trip. My big show is in August and I have practically no inventory made for it. I also have to figure out exactly how to set my booth up and design more signs, banners, etc. My blog posts should be more interesting from now on:)

I'll keep you updated:)

Kara

Print available on Etsy

2010-07-02T12:39:00.001-07:00

I just finished this illustration...

2010-07-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Pencil drawing/colorized on computer

Notice how the top version is shorter. I actually just now figured out how to select parts of a drawing and then move it around:) Way cool! Basically this piece is many layers. I scanned in the original sketch as the background and then created layer upon layer for all the different colors. Once I was finished, I merged all the layers which allowed me to use my "selector" tool as I like to call it and select the edges of the rose bush and drag upward:) It was so easy! It's always fun discovering something new.

New Earrings!

2010-06-30T17:23:00.001-07:00

I love this new design! I crafted these leaves out of 16 gauge copper wire. They are approximately 3" long. For sale in my Etsy shop:)

I wish I could have 'em all...

2010-06-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

The Pink Piggy by Adatine

Wapped Fox T-Shirt by Dandyrion

Dover Cat by Marjji

Make Your Own Photo Holder!

2010-06-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

I decided to make these for my show to hold signs. They are super easy to make and all you need is 16 gauge craft wire and air dry clay. I am going to paint the bases green:)

Karisma by Kara's New Look!

2010-06-20T07:43:00.001-07:00

In an on-going effort to give by business image a fresh look, I have designed new earring cards, business cards, inserts, banners, gift boxes, etc. My boxes were posted earlier.

Earring Card (left) and Business card (right)

"About the Artist" insert

Rack Card (front & back)

My Dad

2010-06-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

In Loving Memory

Linwood R. Moore

1948-2008

Absent from the body, present with the Lord. II Cor. 5:8

Tribute written by Kristen Moore.

"Not to the strong is the battle, not to the swift is the race, but to the true and the faithful, victory is promised through grace." - Fanny Crosby

If any person has ever illustrated this truth, it was Linwood Richardson Moore.

From sports to the military to family to God's Word, Linwood was true, and he was faithful.

Linwood loved sports, especially baseball. He was a faithful fan of the New York Yankees, the Washington Redskins, and any college team from Virginia. Through victories and losses, Linwood always stood by his team-true and faithful.

A hospital corpsman in the Navy, Linwood faithfully served his fallen comrades. Never one to promote himself, there are very few glimpses of Linwood's heroism. However, he did share one instance of a time when he needed to act quickly to physically restrain a burn victim who was attempting to commit suicide by jumping from a top-story hospital window. Through victories and losses, Linwood always stood by his country-true and faithful.

However Linwood's loyalty to his family outweighed even his love for sports and country. Being the only man among five women, he was their silent rock and unselfish supporter. Believing a Christian's treasure is stored up in heaven, he willingly sold earthly treasures like his prized base-ball card collection and his father's hunting rifle so that his girls would be able to stay in college to complete their education.

He was a hard worker, working the night shift and overtime to provide for his family. When the time came to move, he put first his wife's calling to be a Christian school teacher and moved to Des Moines so she could teach at Grandview Park Baptist School. Through family victories and losses, Linwood always stood by his family-true and faithful.

In 1972, Linwood gained a treasure more important than family, work, or sports. He gained a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ when he acknowledged that he was a sinner and needed a Savior.

Throughout his Christian walk, Linwood endured many trials-the ups and downs of life-physical, emotional, and spiritual. These trials directed Linwood to the precious truths found in his favorite hymns such as "The Haven of Rest" and favorite verses such as Psalms 56:11, "In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me."

Reading the Bible every day and in it's entirety every year, Lin gained the strength necessary to remain true and faithful to the end, and always with his trademark twinkle in his eye and quick sense of humor.

Today Linwood's family rejoices that the man who was faithful in the little things on earth has now heard the Lord's approval, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Linwood has finally anchored his soul in that Haven of Rest. And now, after many victories and losses, he stands by his Lord-true and faithful.

Etsy Favorites

2010-06-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Every time I log into Etsy I always seem to be overwhelmed by all the wonderful items for sell. There really is no need to buy anywhere else:) Here are a few recent finds...

White Top by Crystalindumentaria

Stuffed Octopus by Tokkyu

Owl Pillow by Bedbuggs

Telephone Pole Insulater Votive Holder by TravelBackVintage

Orange Clutch by Farfallagialla

Mason Jar Dispenser by MidWestFinds

New Boxes! Yay!

2010-06-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

From this day forward, all Etsy orders will be mailed out in one of these cute boxes! I am working on getting some chocolate bags for when I sell locally at shows:) I am so excited about Karisma's new look! I also just purchased a new banner for my shows!

Live Models!

2010-05-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

Yay! I have been wanting to have professional pictures taken of my jewelry on live models for quite some time. I asked two of my friends to take pics for me. These are what my friend Emily came up with:) My friend Elle is still working on the others. I am so excited to what she comes up with!:)

New Designs!

2010-05-27T04:46:00.001-07:00

Me & Mystic Tan

2010-05-17T04:17:00.000-07:00

The other day I decided to check out how much a spray tan costs. I wasn't going to actually get the spray tan that day but when I found out that it was only $10 for the first time I went ahead and did it. Well, after watching a video and listening to careful instructions from the nice employee I excitedly hopped into the machine and hit the green button... I immediately realized that I had forgotten to put on all of the protective lotion! I jumped out and started freaking out because the machine kept going and I didn't know what to do. I was a little embarrassed! How on earth did I forget the most important and ONLY step? Wow. Anyhow, the nice lady let me try it again. But this time I was a little flustered and while I did remember my lotion and shower cap, I did not properly adjust the shower cap and now I have a nice white line on my forehead!

Other than that mishap, it turned out pretty nice and I would definitly do it again. If I can ever face that employee again:)

My Mom

2010-05-03T05:06:00.000-07:00

MOM

My mom is a first grade teacher at a Christian school-she has been teaching for over 25 years. I had the privilege of having my mom as my 1st grade teacher and have many wonderful memories! Every day we would have a time of singing fun songs, and reciting poetry like "The Sugar Plum Tree". My mom even made a sugar plum tree for the classroom and hung candy on it. She has always had the best bulletin boards and has always had fun, creative projects for her "kids" to make. She loves her students and that is evident in the time she spends outside of work coming up with ideas to make things extra special and memorable for her students.

This past February I was talking to my mom on the phone late at night. The next day was Valentine's Day. My mom was telling me how she had decided not to make her student's valentines this year because she was so busy with other things. She was feeling terrible because she knew how much her students in the previous years have always loved them. ( She cuts out the shape of a teddy bear holding a red heart and gives him squiggly eyes-these bears are about 8" tall). She hated the idea of giving them a "boring" store bought card. While we were talking she decided to go out to WalMart and get construction paper and pull an all-nighter to make her kids Valentines' Day cards. The next day I called her to see how it went and she told me how the children kept pulling her card out to look at:) These are things that make her happy:)

This is just one example of how my mom has showed love for her students. Teaching is more than a job to her-It consumes her whole life!

My mom worked just as hard to make our childhood memorable. One Easter Sunday my sister and I woke up to bright polka dot umbrellas that were open and filled with Easter candy and other small goodies.

In Junior High my sister and I were attending a public school for the first time in our lives. We didn't have a lot of money but I remember very well my mother saving up money so that Kim and I could get new name brand shoes and a new coat. She knew how embarrassed we were to wear our WalMart shoes and wanted us to have something nice.

I love my mom very much and am so PROUD of her!

Dress Up a White Tee & Jeans

2010-04-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of outfits that I put together using a basic white shirt from Target and a pair of jeans. I accessorized with scarves and Karisma Jewelry. The look is crisp and perfect for Summer!

Karisma Happenings

2010-04-29T05:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! This year has been a year of growth and exposure for Karisma by Kara. I want to thank every one of you for your support. Afterall, I couldn't be a business without you:)

A Few Exciting Happenings:

SHOWS!

I'm anticipating several exciting events and opportunities throughout the remaining months of 2010. This year has been my first year where I have been able to book at least one show each month. There are three shows that I am especially looking forward to:

1. The Upstate Woman's Show @ The Carolina First Center, Aug. 26-28.

2. Mistletoe Market @ the Anderson County Museum (date pending).

3. Holiday Fair @ The Carolina First Center, Dec. 3-5.

Click HERE

to view my full itinerary.

LIVE MODELS!

I have been wanting to photograph live models wearing my jewelry for quite some time and am finally getting around to it. I will be posting pictures soon!:)

MONTHLY GIVEAWAYS!

Another exciting thing that I have started is monthly giveaways on my Facebook Fan page.

May's giveaway is my popular Silver Spiral Cluster Necklace!

And as always, I have been working feverishly to come up with several exciting new products which are currently available in my ETSY shop!

Kara

KarismabyKara.com

Live Models-Finally!

2010-04-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to photograph my jewelry on live models for quite some time now but have just never gotten around to it...until now! I just sent off some of my jewelry to one of my friends who happens to be beautiful, stylish, and a great photographer! I can hardly wait to see the pictures! I am also having a few local friends model this summer as well. Check back soon to see the pics! I will post them as soon as I get them:)

Recent Etsy Finds

2010-04-25T20:35:00.000-07:00

I keep seeing these adorable poppy designs and have become obsessed with them. But aren't they great!? I love this skirt! Man, I have expensive taste!:)

Mquin khaki skirt...

PrinceDesignUK poppy bowls...

HeartofLight poppy belt....

Mother's Day Special!

2010-04-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day Special-
Free Shipping on all U.S. purchases PLUS a FREE custom sized freshwater pearl Bird's Nest Ring with orders $20 and above!

Five Fun New Necklaces!

2010-04-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Before every show I usually spend the last few nights trying to come up with some new designs with my left-over beads. Here are just a few necklaces so far...

So I'm Sentimental...

2010-04-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

My parents were both very sentimental, sappy individuals. My mom still is, my dad has passed away. I'm starting to think that perhaps I have inherited this quality. I cry at the corniest, cliche videos and what-nots. For instance, sad stories that have been used over and over in the movie industry still make me cry. Or atleast feel like crying.

Another thing that I am beginning to notice is how important little things mean to me. I was thinking about how good God is to give us memories. I called my mom and while we were talking, I mentioned this to her and she exclaimed, "I was just talking to Grandma about that!" Yep. It runs in the family:) But I don't think it's neccessarily a bad quality. I think it is a wonderful thing to be able to look around me and appreciate and cherish these little things that God has given us to make our lives brighter:) Of course I could do without the sad movies:) I am soooo thankful to God for wonderful childhood memories.

He is so good to give us the ability to remember loved ones that have past on. I often see my dad in my dreams-how beautiful it will be to see him in person again someday! Which reminds me, I am so thankful for this assurence as a believer in Christ: I will see Dad again! I am also thankful for the beauty that surrounds me, music, humor, the ability to be creative and make money doing something that I love.

Life is full of hard times but God certainly gives us beautiful, wonderful times to get us through!:)

New Filigree Necklaces!

2010-04-09T10:12:00.000-07:00

I handcrafted these necklaces out of polymer clay and then glazed over the filligree design to create a "ceramic" look. These necklaces are great for Summer! I have more colors available and can always do custom colors:) I also have matching earrings and rings available:)

2010-04-08T06:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some great finds on Etsy!

Hierapparel's shop

...accessorize it with my assymetrical copper choker for $26.00...

Bebecha's shop

ArtonCrafts

ThirdWillow's shop

And The Winners Are...

2010-03-31T07:41:00.000-07:00

Susan from the Anderson show...

and...

Caroline from the Haywood Mall show!

You each are entitled to a certificate of $20 to be used in my Etsy shop! Just email me at Karalmava@gmail.com when you are ready to redeem! I will email you a code to use when you make your order.

Expires May 1st, 2010.

Anderson Spring Fling

2010-03-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

I just got home from a very successful show at the Anderson County Museum. It was a very enjoyable show with several wonderful crafters and artists. Stone Lotus Pottery was also at this event and I was able to purchase a few of their lovely pieces! They are a couple of the nicest people I have ever run into:) Visit their Etsy shop here. Here are the pieces that I purchased:

My Horizons Have Just Broadened!

2010-03-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

I purchased some sheet metal and some metal cutters today! As soon as I got home I started creating! I am so excited to see what I can come up with! Here is what I made tonight:) I will be posting more of these affordable artisan pieces in my Etsy shop very soon:)

Spring Fling at the Anderson County Museum!

2010-03-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

This Friday and Saturday (26th & 27th) is the Spring Fling at the Anderson County Museum! From what I have been told, this event is the Spring version of their Mistletoe Market. I will have a booth at this event and have been coming up with several new designs for this juried show. This event is FREE and should be a lot of fun!:) Hope to see you there!

New!

2010-03-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

These stunning cuff bracelets are something new that I am selling. I had made one a while back in sterling silver but I am just now offering them in a tarnish resistant metal. I can pretty do much any color upon request-even alternating colors for your favorite highschool team:) I am selling them for $39.99 each.

2010-03-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

I've been building an earring diplay today! I really do enjoy building things but I have a lot to learn about construction! It would also help if I had everything I needed on hand. I've finished the stand but it isn't very sturdy. I had bought two brackets-one for each stand only to find out that one in the center would not hold them upright. So I screwed them into a wooden base and the front was too heavy and it fell over:( So....I decided to turn them in slightly toward eachother. It stands on it's own now but it's wobly. I will probably end up taking it apart after the show and re-doing it, if I can...Sigh. My next project is going to be some sort of wall organizer. Maybe I'll consult with someone before I start:)

Wherever the wind takes us...

2010-03-17T06:14:00.000-07:00

Although I have an upcoming show and really should have been preparing for it, Luke and I decided to have some fun yesterday. Our only agenda was to let the wind carry us! We started our day by having lunch at The Clock and then decided to stop at random stores that we hadn't been in. While we were driving around looking for interesting stores, we passed Frankie's Fun Park and decided to ride the Go-Carts. After that little excursion we soon became very tired and had to go home... We must be getting old!

Now it's time to work! I have two days to get ready and I have so much that I want to get made! After this show I am going to need to make more jewelry for the 26th and 27th. Whew! It's been a very busy month and it's not over yet:)

IKEA!

2010-03-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday I went to Ikea with some friends-it was amazing! I only wish I had a little more money with me when I went:) The prices really suprised me. For $22 I got supplies that I needed to make a really awesome earring display, 2 Ikea bags which are both huge and durable and will serve me well at shows, 4 little frames for signs, and green napkins which I plan to use for tissue paper-my friend's BRILLIANT idea! Anyhow, last night I started working on my earring display. This picture is just an idea of what the over-all display will look like. I plan to use a brown fabric instead of that green--way too much green otherwise. By the way, the stumps of wood you see are actually candles from Pottery Barn that have been flipped over:) Oh! and I guess I should mention that the backside of the board can also either display eye-catching photos or more jewelry! I love that the display will add height to my booth:) I can't wait to use it on the 20th!

Bird's Nest Rings

2010-03-12T11:19:00.000-08:00

I've been making several of these for my upcoming shows. They are perfect for Spring!

Don't Forget!

2010-03-12T09:28:00.000-08:00

I have deemed April 1st as Customer Appreciation Day! And to show my appreciation I am having a drawing with 3 winners! Here's the scoop: I am having three shows this month in the Greenville, SC area. There will be a winner from each show. All you have to do is A. enter your receipt number & a brief comment in the comment box and then B. follow my blog! Each winner will recieve a $20 gift certificate to be used on my online Etsy shop! I will announce the winners April 1st so stay tuned:)

New Wire-Wrapped Pendants and Cabs!

2010-03-09T05:06:00.000-08:00

After selling all 4 or 5 of the wire-wrapped pendants and cabochons (Haywood Mall), I decided that I better make some more. I have a lot more to make but here is what I have so far...

Success!

2010-03-07T04:43:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to my booth this weekend. I was very pleased with the over-all experience. I loved my booth display:) It keeps getting better and better at each show. I do need to work on the organizational aspect to it-namely to figure out some sort of earring and ring display. I also met some wonderful people, learned about various opportunities, and made lots of contacts:) I also enjoyed the support from several of my friends who stopped by to check on me and to see the booth-it meant a great deal to me-Thank you!

Customer Appreciation Day!

2010-03-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

I have deemed April 1st as Customer Appreciation Day! And to show my appreciation I am having a drawing with 3 winners! Here's the scoop: I am having three shows this month in the Greenville, SC area. There will be a winner from each show. All you have to do is A. enter your receipt number & a brief comment in the comment box and then B. follow my blog!

Each winner will recieve a $20 gift certificate to be used on my online Etsy shop!

I will announce the winners April 1st so stay tuned:)

Anderson County Spring Fling March 26 & 27

2010-03-04T09:42:00.000-08:00

Greenville Handmade

2010-03-01T12:42:00.001-08:00

http://handmadegreenville.com/home.html

Haywood Mall Show Coming Up!

2010-03-01T11:27:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone, I am just writing to let you know that my show at the Haywood mall in Greenville, SC is coming up this week! March 5-6, 10am-9pm both days. Also, coming up on March 20th, I will hopefully be participating in Handmade Greenville, which is new this year. It will feature around 5o crafters/artisans-everything will be hand-crafted!:) I'm looking foward to looking around and meeting some other artists:) March 26-27 I will be at the Anderson county museum participating in my first juried show! Lastly, I am planning on having a booth at Greer Fest but it is not finalized.

Awesome Etch A Sketch Artist

2010-02-24T14:20:00.000-08:00

I am always amazed at my sister's Etch A Sketch skills! As I was recently admiring her new masterpiece I thought to myself, "I wonder if there is some sort of contest she could enter?". So I Googled it and no offense Kim, you got nothin' compared to Jeff Gagliardi! Anyhow, I am still going to post her Etch A Sketch artwork because I still am quite proud of her and she is a promising artist in my opinion:)

Benji!

2010-02-17T17:27:00.000-08:00

I get to dog-sit! It's my first time and I don't usually like dogs but this little guy is so cute! I am a little concerned for his safety-I have three cats. We shall see what happens:)
Ok. I'm updating this post. My three cats hid under the couch through the night and this morning. Toby eventually came out to introduce himself and now all three cats are out. They are not too happy about this fluffy, hyper "thing" that has invaded their space. Here are some pics. Enjoy!

Movie Junkie

2010-02-16T19:38:00.000-08:00

For the last several days I have been glued to my computer desk chair watching movie after movie on Netflix while making jewelry, of course:) So while I have been productive, I have been lazy at the same time. I was on an Alfred Hitchcock kick for a while and I think I watched just about every episode out there. Then I started looking for some classics and just finished Letter to Three Wives.

While I've enjoyed these last few days I am in some serious need of excercise and contact with other human beings:)

This is what happens when I have FIVE shows to prepare jewelry for, a large wholesale order to fill, and two shops to send jewelry two-all for which I am very grateful. Somehow watching movies helps me sit down and crank jewelry out. Otherwise I get distracted and end up doing a million other things. But my night is winding down and I think I might just go to bed... Good Night:)

New Goodies!

2010-02-11T17:29:00.001-08:00

In my attempt to create some new economical pieces for my upcoming shows I came up with these beauties. I was delightfully suprised with the outcome:)

Nestfeathers Gallery

2010-02-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce that my jewelry will now be carried at Nestfeathers! Nestfeathers is a quaint little boutique in Pickens, SC. In addition to my jewelry, you will also find lovely pottery, original artwork and other great finds at a great price. Classes taught by the represented artists are also available.

http://www.nestfeathersstore.com/

a few of my favorite things...

2010-01-29T06:19:00.000-08:00

a ring catcher from Misspottery.Etsy.com

a flattering grey colored top from Sandmaiden.Etsy.com

an oh so cute clutch from Littleellie.Etsy.com

adorable hand painted flats from Creativedecor.Etsy.com

Facelift...

2010-01-26T17:31:00.000-08:00

Upon much pondering I have decided that my booth at Palmetto Home and Gardens needs a facelift! Due to a tight budget, my options are limited but I'm thinking burlap stapled to the wall and heavy duty nails might create an interesting "industrial" look that would look good with my branding... The booth as it is right now looks rather scattered and not tied together. The light blue wall doesn't help matters!

Also, I have seen quite a lot of cute ideas for diplaying jewelry. Here are a few ideas that I have found:

The first one is a little busy for my taste but it is a good concept. Along the same line-perhaps a tree branch? Now that's what I call economical!

The wood plank is also great!

I saved my favorite for last! Unfortunatly this would not work for me beacuse I sell my earrings on earring cards!

I may also attempt to make a paper mache bust.

Coming soon....

2010-01-26T09:25:00.000-08:00

Spring & Summer Collection!

I've been in the work room this past week thinking of new designs and colors for the upcoming seasons. I have decided on grey, white, light yellow, blush, patina, black, bright pink, lilac, bright blue, and meadow green.

The new collection will feature hand-crafted clay rings, earrings, and necklaces. I will also have several designs in silver aluminum.

A few of these items are already for sale on karalmava.Etsy.com.

I am also taking several new pieces to my Palmetto Home & Garden booth this week-end.

Colors featured here: bright blue, meadow green, black, and bright pink.
I will post pictures of the other colors once they have been made:)

2010 Shows!

2010-01-11T14:32:00.000-08:00

You can expect to see Karisma by Kara jewelry at many shows and festivals in and near Greenville, SC this year! I have four shows that I am hoping to be in during the months of March and April. I am also hoping to be at the Pumpkin Town Festival and the Holiday Fair this year. Once plans are finalized, I will be posting a calendar with the details. I am hoping to meet many of you!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T19:27:00.000-08:00

A new year likely means new resolutions--exercise more, eat less, spend less, better time management, and of course . . . .more jewelry. Right? Okay, you might not exactly have that last one down on your resolution list, but if you had anything close on your list about looking good, then I've got some great new pieces to help you do that.

Resolution - SPEND LESS (and look good too!):

SALE! I am clearing out my old items so I can begin creating new pieces for the new year. My sketchbook is full of new designs for this new year and I am itching to get started! The sale is going on at [KarismabyKara.com](

http://www.karismabykara.com/home) and at my Palmetto Home and Gardens booth. My earrings and rings are also Buy 2, Get 1 @ my [Etsy shop](http://www.etsy.com/your_shop.php).

Resolution-MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF:

My husband informed me that perhaps not everyone knows what Palmetto Home and Gardens is all about. It is not a garden center. It is a home furnishing store with many different shops inside. It also houses a boutique area with several little shops that sell a variety of items including unique stationary, candles, jewelry, handbags, and much more! If you have not yet visited the store, be sure to stop by and check it out-preferably before January 16th ;) I know you will enjoy browsing.

Also, new Items have been listed to both my Etsy shop and my personal website. I will be concentrating on adding more pieces weekly so be sure to continue visiting!

Enjoy every day of this new year!

Kara

Updating Etsy Shop!

2009-12-27T01:07:00.001-08:00

I trust that everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Luke and I spent both Christmas eve and Christmas day with two of my sisters and enjoyed watching movies, playing games, and eating good food together.

I have decided to start selling some of my original artwork, art prints and custom portraits. I currently have one listing for a custom portrait in my Etsy shop, karalmava.etsy.com. I will be posting more art as time allows. To see a broader sampling of my work, visit KarismabyKara.com.

More details to come!

Kara

A Newly Released CD by Celtic Echoes

2009-12-14T11:07:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

My friends have recently published a new cd featuring traditional Irish/Scottish tunes and a photo of one of my rings on the cover!

The group is comprised of several talented musicians. Heidi Haase plays both the Hammered Dulcimer and the Mountain Dulcimer and her sister Esther plays the folk harp. Some of the other instrumentalists that make up this group are: Cathleen Durkee-Penny Whistle, Emily Haase-Guitar(also her sister), and Drew Smith-Cello (Heidi's spouse).

The group performs for several weddings and has additional cd's for purchase. To learn more about the group or to purchase cds, visit http://www.heidismusic.com/heidismusic.com/Welcome_1.html

Christmas Party!

2009-12-05T19:29:00.000-08:00

Just finished up with the Christmas party. It was so much fun! Here are some pictures of my guests and our fun evening! Immediately below is the winner of the game we played. She is modeling her prize. Directly beneath her is the winner of the door-prize! She is also modeling her prize. It matched her outfit perfectly.

I thought offering to wrap their purchases was a nice festive touch! I know it put me in the Christmas spirit.

All in all I think everyone enjoyed themself. We ended up talking for quite awhile but it was so much fun! I probably did most of the talking:) Hope I didn't keep anyone out past their bed-time!

Wowzers!

2009-12-05T12:51:00.001-08:00

Wowzers! I sure am busy this month! It's good to be busy though:) In fact, I need to be getting ready for a show tonight in my home but I can't seem to tear myself away from the computer. Three more party/shows this month and then I can relax! I am also going to concentrate on decorating my "Bead Room". A good friend warned me about painting a work room brown. No light! I'm so glad I passed my ideas through her. I am ashamed that I did not think of the light issue. But alas, chocolate brown walls with a light green accents would have looked spiffy. I guess I could always go with green walls and brown accents. Hmmmm.... I guess you will just have to wait and se what I decide on. The walls are purple right now and it's driving me crazy. I am not a purple person. Although light purple and grey would probably make for a cute "Girl" room. Anyhow, off to prepare for my party!

Pottery for Christmas

2009-12-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know me know that I LOVE pottery! I have a few favorite potters, one of which unfortunately does not have an online shop:( However, two of them do!

llyria Pottery on Etsy :

Katie does beautiful work! She even makes these adorable little book pendants! For more of her artisan pieces, check out her personal website.

Stone Lotus Pottery:

This mother and daughter team also do beautiful work! I actually ordered this plate and she hand-delivered it! Very nice lady!

Giveaway!

2009-12-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

Hi everone!

I'm having a little giveaway! For a chance to win a FREE $20 Karisma by Kara gift card simply follow the directions below:

1. Post this entire entry to your blog, website, or other online site.

2. Post your link in the comment section

I will be randomly selecting a winner January first! The certificate may be used on either of my online shops or at my Palmetto Home & Garden's booth in Greenville SC!

Here are a few of my items...

So much to be thankful for...

2009-11-30T15:40:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful thanksgiving holiday! I know I did! We had my two sisters and Luke's brother and sister over to our new house. It was our first time cooking a turkey and it amazingly turned out o.k. We even forgot to put a thermometer in! So much to be thankful for... I'm aspecially thankful for the new house that has an extra room for all of my jewelry/art mess AND a washer and dryer! And a bath-tub. And a mail-box that isn't a mile away. And trash pick-up! Anyhow, I could go on and on. God has truly been good to us!

Plans for the new year:

I am hoping to do a jewelry show atleast every two months if not every month of the upcoming year. I have recently quit my daytime job so I will also be updating my Etsy shop and website more often.

Unfortunately I was not able to have my Fall photo shoot:( I am hoping to plan one for the Spring.

Head's Up: December 18th is the 1 year anniversary of my Etsy shop and I will be doing something special! So be sure to check it out!

Haywood Mall Holiday Craft Show!

2009-10-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I have been busily preparing for my jewelry booth at the Hawood Mall here in Greenville, SC. The show is Oct. 30th and 31st. The show starts at 10am and ends at 9pm both nights. I will have plenty of jewelry in all price ranges. Plus, all of my necklaces and bracelets will be 25% off. I will also have other sales going on as well.

This is a great event to come to in order to find a wide range of handmade gifts for this holiday season. I know I enjoy looking around:)

Kara

Monthly Newsletter

2009-09-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

I love a challenge! I am currently working on a design for my sister's business card. It's times like this that make me want to go back to school for Graphic Design...
Anyhow, I am designing her a business card in exchange for her service as an email marketer:) I think I got the better deal;) Starting next month I will have snazzy email newsletters! And she, of course, will have snazzy business cards:)
By the way, she is very talented. If you need help with your business, check out her website, Zoetical.com.

Craft Fair

2009-08-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to get the word out about the Holiday Arts and Crafts Show that will be held at the Haywood Mall in Greenville SC during Oct. 31 and Nov. 1st. I will be there and I will have three tables full of beautiful, affordable hand-crafted goodness! I will also be passing out coupons for purchases at my shop at Palmetto Home and Gardens. I hope you will be there!

Kara

Wire-Wrapped Pendants

2009-08-24T12:33:00.000-07:00

I've been busy wire-wrapping pendants. This wire-wrapped cage technique is meant for cabachons (flat back, hole-less stones) but can also be used on large beads or pendants. This is a picture of a large natural stone bead that I have had for quite awhile. I have been saving it for the perfect project and I believe that this is it!

New Items!

2009-08-17T14:11:00.001-07:00

As always, I have been working hard to come up with new designs. Here are a couple of my favorites:)

Live Models!

2009-08-10T12:26:00.000-07:00

Wow! I have a lot on my plate! I keep coming up with ideas to imrove my website. The newest idea is to find 3-5 live models to model my jewelry. I will then have multiple pictures of each item so that the buyer can clearly see what he or she is purchasing. It will be much like the set-up on Etsy. More work on my part but it will look great!
I wrote on an earlier blog that I would be coming out with a catolog that focuses on pieces that I can easily create again and again. You could call it a permanent collection. Well, I have made an adjustment to that plan. Rather than having a catolog printed, I am simply going to place those items solely in this shop. My "one-of-a-kind" pieces will be limited to parties, my Palmetto shop, and of course custom orders. So, if you have you eye on something, you might want to snatch it up:)
P.S. These new items are going to be great and there will be a large variety of designs to choose from ranging from pretty to funky. Plus a Children's line!

Thanks,
Kara

Ring Classes and Upcoming Sale!

2009-08-05T15:05:00.001-07:00

I love teaching people how to make jewelry and I love seeing how different, but wonderful everyone's creations turn out!
I just taught another group of ladies and one child how to make rings. I was extra-amazed at one lady's creativity and her handiwork! She figured out on her own how to add a little spiral flourish to the top of her ring. I haven't even experienced with that! :)

On a different note, I am planning on hosting a show and a class for my friends closer to Christmas time. I intend for it to serve as an opportunity for them to purchase some last minute gifts and also to have the opportunity to learn how to make something that they can then give away as a gift. I am extremely excited about these two events!
I also plan to have a sale with free shipping on my website, KarismabyKara.com. This sale will be sometime in October.

Thanks for reading!;)

Kara

Economical Options

2009-08-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

I have currently been busy making pendants. They are a wonderful addition to anyone's jewelry box. By purchasing a few pendants and a couple of cord options you can accessorize several outfits for a fraction of the cost of buying multiple necklaces.
These pendants and cords/chains will be available in my Etsy shop mid-September. There are a few currently available so check 'em out!
Here is a sneek peek at what's to come!

CrAzY about CoPpEr!

2009-07-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

I just bought a spool of 14 guage copper wire and came out with these beauties!

New Jewelry!

2009-07-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but Fall is my absolute favorite season of the year! Here are some of my newest Fall designs. To see more, visit my Etsy shop, http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6671821. Or shop from my website, KarismabyKara.com.

I crafted this ring using polymer clay and stainless steel wire. More Fall colors coming!