Archive for March, 2010

03/23/10

I’m always on the hunt for unique necklaces, so when I saw these pendants on New Brahmin I was intrigued.  I thought – little origami charms, that’ s different.

But then I visited the Origami Bijou website and realized that origami extraordinaire Cindy Ng fashions each unique pendant or earring from a single sheet of 99.9% pure silver, using the same techniques as traditional paper folding.  And I was completely blown away.

Knowing that such incredible talent goes into every pretty piece makes them even more special.

I can’t choose which I like best – but the bird and the little fishy are at the very top of my list.

Happy shopping!

03/23/10

Here are Tuesday’s picks. I am really loving these photographs…

Merry Go Round by This Years Girl $22.50

Autumn Berberis by Maria Kallin Photography $7.90

03/22/10

I am really head over heels for June Craft right now, a motley collection of art, crafts and textiles with a mid-century influence. The color schemes and sweet illustrations will satisfy the tastes of boys and girls alike.

Visit June Craft on etsy and papernstitch to view more of the collection.

03/22/10

1.  I love how the modern, unconventional print contrasts with the classic, sophisticated shape of this clutch.  Handmade Clutch from Red Ruby Rose, $70.

2.  A bright tee with festive floral embellishment around the neckline is just right for casual weekend outings.  Tee from J. Crew, $29.50,

3.  Show off your sunny disposition with a pair of bright yellow shades.  Sunglasses from Urban Outfitters, $10.

4.  This crisply pleated yellow and white printed linen dress is perfect garden party attire.  Dress from Forever 21, $22.80.

5.  Add a splash of color with these technicolor patent wedges.  Sandals from Newport News, $29.

6.  A lightweight scarf with a watercolor-inspired print is the perfect accessory for breezy spring days.  Scarf from Nordstrom, $38.

7.  Bikini season is almost here!  Show off your beach body in a retro classic… the yellow polka dot bikini.  Bandeau bikini from Victoria’s Secret, $29.

xoxo,

Lesley of 315thomas

03/22/10

Hi everyone!  I’m glad you’re back for this week’s Craft Venture!  I’m Brenda from Phydeaux Designs – back to continue our new series on hiring help.  Last week, we talked about the three main characteristics you want your employees to have.  This week, we’re talking about what you can afford to pay an employee.

Before we talk about any more of the nuts and bolts of hiring, you have to make sure you can afford to hire someone!  Many indie business owners have very slim profit margins – do you make enough after your direct costs and overhead expense to pay an employee?

First, let’s talk about what an employee costs.

Let’s say you think you can afford to pay a part-time employee minimum wage, which varies from state to state, and may also vary within your state.  Let’s say that in your state, you have verified that minimum wage is $8.25/hour.

But!  There are more costs than just an hourly wage!  You’ll need to talk with your accountant about the taxes associated with an employee.  Are you required by your state to cover any benefits for your halftime employee?  What about workers compensation?  Will you need to purchase supplies or equipment for your employee (e.g., safety gear, sewing supplies, an extra computer to work from)?  Do you need to send your employee to specialized training (e.g., a class for a specific software program)?  How much of your own time will be spent training your new employee, which will decrease your productivity during that time period?

03/22/10

I am super excited today because, as I mentioned this morning, today is the first day of the newest exhibition. So many excellent shops…many brand new to papernstitch. So be sure to take a peek when you have some time to browse.

Visit papernstitch to view all the shops in the newest exhibition.

03/22/10

Today is a special daily favorites because its the first day of the new exhibition. We have some AMAZING shops to explore, including today’s shop of the day, June Craft.

More shop mentions later today. But until then, visit papernstitch.com to view all of our exhibitors.