beadbrats

Etsy Supply Street Team - Team ESST - March Madness Event - March 16 - 19, 2011!

2011-03-14T22:04:00.002-04:00

Search TEAM ESST For Your Crafting Supplies!

Come & be a winner with us! During this event many of the supply shops of Etsy Supply Street Team - Team ESST - will have special offerings just for you! Look for incentives such as sales, shipping specials or perhaps even a gift with purchase. Offerings will vary by shop and the list can be found on our team blog beginning March 16th. See you there!

Our Etsy shop Beadbrats Vintage Beads will be including a free gift of vintage glass flower beads with every purchase of $25.00 or more. Don't forget our every day shipping specials: U.S. Domestic - orders of $25.00 and up get FREE 1st class shipping & International - orders of $60.00 and up get a 50% DISCOUNT on 1st class shipping cost.

A Vintage Adventure - Nailheads Unwrapped!

2011-02-06T15:45:00.001-05:00

This little photo essay shows a brick of vintage Czech nail head beads from start to finish. The beads measure 11mm, are jet black & have 2 sets of holes (aka "double drilled"). Before I unwrapped them I made sure to photograph the package from different sides and then I went on to it's contents. The beads inside were in very good condition but not all were neatly strung as I had hoped so there were a number of broken red threads. They were also really dirty, something not unusual in beads left wrapped for so many years. The paper wrapping dries out, starts to break down and becomes brittle so when it's disturbed it often crumbles and makes a mess. I will start with a loose strand and work my way backwards:

Front side showing the pressed facets.

Back side showing that it's plain & smooth.

A large master hank of nailhead beads.

The side of the package with some of the nailhead beads peeking through.

The end of the package showing the original label. "Jais" means "Jet" as in black.

The front of the package. I've always loved the brown paper & string packages -
there's something very "old world" about them.

The interpretation of "vintage" (where beads are concerned) has become somewhat fast and loose over the years. Due to the miracle of technology there is a wealth of images and information at our fingertips. What is lacking, however, is the ability to examine the beads to determine whether or not they are what they are supposed to be. This is not to say that beads are being misrepresented - that's a whole other blog in itself. The problem is that often times when beads have changed hands over and over again their provenance gets kind of muddled. It's a treat to have them in their original wrapper and there is no doubt that they are vintage Czech. I've enjoyed sharing this with you. Any questions?

2010-12-18T16:57:00.000-05:00

Veterans Day - November 11, 2010

2010-11-11T00:01:00.004-05:00

Remember - Honor - Support

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-01T00:01:00.015-04:00

Knowledge is power! I urge you to take a moment to learn about how important early detection is in the treatment of breast cancer. If you have ever been touched by this disease you will understand the devastating effects it can have. Early detection does save lives and the best way to fight breast cancer is in it's early stages. Please don't think that it can never happen to you - it has affected far too many lives and needs to be stopped.

There are many web sites that will inform and inspire you. Here's just a few where you will find facts, chat forums and peer support:

National Breast Cancer Foundation

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation

Breast Cancer Network of Strength

Of course a Google search will turn up lots more. It doesn't matter where you look - just please look! For your sake and that of your loved ones.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like...Hey...Wait A Minute!

2010-09-18T20:37:00.001-04:00

OK, so now it's official, the holiday season has begun. What holiday you ask? Well, here's the thing. It's Saturday and I am sitting here enjoying a cool breeze from my window fan while listening to the radio and yet another commercial comes on. Although I've got it mostly tuned out a familiar refrain breaks in ... "Never was there ever such a Christmas Show..." Say what??? Oh man, I guess it's time to get ready for Christmas since Radio City Music Hall is already advertising their Christmas Show on the radio. Can TV spots be far behind?

Seriously folks, it's still Summer. I winced when someone recently mentioned on Etsy that it was "only 93 days 'til Christmas" or some such nonsense. That is just so wrong! It's actually more like 98 or 99 (what a relief - more time to shop). Now look, Autumn doesn't start for a couple of days, the neighborhood brats have finally gone back to school and I'm not having to keep ConEd in business running my air conditioner ever night. Could you give us just one itty bitty break and can the Christmas stuff for a while. Please?

Every year it's earlier & earlier. I am predicting that next year we will have combined Labor Day & Christmas 4:00 am door buster sales all over the place. Oh well, guess I'm gonna go order my Claxton fruitcakes & hang my lights. I just hope they don't get caught in the fan!

October 14, 2010 Update: Well, at least they let us get past Columbus Day before slamming us with TV ads! Yup, I just saw a TV commercial for Radio City's Christmas Show. Man, I gotta get those lights up...

In Memoriam

2010-09-11T00:01:00.001-04:00

In memory of all who perished and in support of
those who survived.

How To Buy Vintage Beads On Etsy

2010-08-28T17:04:00.000-04:00

Part I: The Basics - There are no simple hard and fast rules to follow but as a vintage bead seller I would like to offer some common sense advice. Buying beads, especially vintage ones, can be an emotional experience. Beads are beautiful little pieces of art and the old ones have a sense of history that doubles their appeal. Such a divine feast of unusual beads await us and inspiration can be spontaneous! The artist in each of us responds to their color and texture while the designer in us processes their size and shape. With such a variety of beads to choose from at what point does the price conscious shopper in us kick in? Sometimes not soon enough.

Part II: Caveat A Lot - This part is where the reality of the transaction has to be considered. Since the advent of internet sales we have all gotten a little lazy when it comes to doing our homework. If no one has told you this before then let me be the first - just because it's on the internet doesn't mean it's accurate. OK, there now, it's all out in the open. The internet is awash with beady inaccuracies. Like old wives' tales bead lore often get handed down without benefit of a little fact checking. If you are buying vintage because their provenance calls to you then I urge you to do a little research and reading. C'mon, it's fun and you will enjoy it! If you could care less then skip this part but remember that age often equals higher prices so maybe you'll reconsider your position.

Part III: How Much Do They Really Cost? - My intention here is not to comment on bead prices but I will urge you to consider the "how much for how many" rule. If seller A has a lot of 50 beads listed for $7.00 & seller B has the same exact beads listed at 12 for $3.25 then which is the better buy? Now side by side like this the answer is obvious that seller B's beads are actually twice the price of seller A's beads. However, when you are looking at numerous listings will you take the time to comparison shop this bead? Probably not. Here's my suggestion - take your Etsy surfing one step further and check prices. Search the description of the bead you are looking at in the "supplies" category of the search bar and see what you get. It might surprise you. Now there is always the possibility that you don't need or want 50 beads. If this is the case then take a moment & send a convo to seller A and ask for a half lot. You'll be surprised how many sellers will make reserved listing just for you with the quantities that you want. It never hurts to ask.

I will continue this series with more vintage bead information in the near future. In the meantime please feel free to email me at: info@eastofoz.com or send a convo through Etsy at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadbrats with any questions. Oh and by the way, we are seller A & with rare exceptions we will be happy to list smaller lots of our beads for you. We love questions and we answer them pretty promptly!

Good Beads Come In Funky Packages - A Great New Etsy Listing

2010-08-22T14:36:00.000-04:00

Follow this link to see the listing on Etsy

One of the most important things you discover in the quest for vintage beads is that they can be hidden by funky and sometimes even nasty packaging! Dirty boxes and filmy looking plastic packaging can hide absolute treasures and a far from pristine outside can often conceal the most perfect vintage glass beads inside. Case in point are these just listed on Etsy vintage Japanese glass beads. They were still sealed, well stapled, in a rather cloudy looking plastic bag. These beads were handmade and still held some release powder in their holes making them look even less appetizing. Opening the package I discovered what gorgeous beads these actually were. Snow white rounds with rich emerald green spots and sparkly aventurina trailings. Follow the above link to see them up close! Just goes to show that the expression "You can't judge a book by it's cover" applies even when it comes to beads!

Two Fun New Etsy Vintage Bead Listings - Autumn Leaves On Wire & Black Diamond Crystal Mix

2010-08-14T23:15:00.001-04:00

I couldn't narrow down my favorite Etsy listing for today so I am previewing two different ones. I have been saving these lovely vintage leaf beads with wire stems until it got closer to fall. A welcome break in the weather today brought hope that summer will in fact end and autumn will arrive. These are just delicious!

The next selection is a mix of vintage Swarovski Black Diamond crystal beads that just about scream "Make me into earrings!" I hope you will, too.

Select you favorite in my Etsy shop & enjoy!

Just Listed On Etsy: Vintage Intricate Glass Bead Bracelet To Repurpose

2010-08-07T19:46:00.000-04:00

I am a little confused about the story behind this vintage bracelet from Japan. I can't imagine that they would have gone though so much work to create this unusual flowered clasp and then attach the 3 beaded strands so poorly. Although I can think of a couple of possible reasons. One, it could have been a customs/shipping thing where it cost less to import a not completely finished piece of jewelry. The other thought that comes to mind it that they may have been made for tourists. Regardless of the reason, the clasp is well constructed and it's a great piece to either restring in the original style or redesign (repurpose being the latest buzz word) into a more contemporary piece. One end of one strand broke free after scanning so it definitely needs some TLC. The parts are all there waiting for you and all the specifics are in the Etsy listing!

Have at look at it in my Etsy shop: Vintage Intricate Glass Bead Bracelet

Recently Listed On Etsy: Vintage Holly Hobbie Guilloche Enamel 30x40mm Cabochons

2010-08-05T12:53:00.000-04:00

OK, so if you know me at all you'll realize that these Holly Hobbie cabs are a little "cute" for my taste. However, I do not discriminate when it comes to beads and bead related items so I try to keep an open mind! Holly Hobbie designs are the ultimate in childhood innocence and have been a favorite of many since the 1970's. These 30x40mm cabochons are made of metal in the guilloche method, with the metal having a repetitive machined pattern finished with enamel. The images are obviously decals which have been sealed to keep them securely adhered to the surface.

Any commercially available bezel will convert these into a locket or they can be used in scrapbooks. How cute would these be decorating a child's room? There are six different styles and they are being sold individually in our Etsy shop so you can selected your favorite.

Savor the cuteness here: Beadbrats Etsy Shop: Holly Hobbie Cabochons

Listed Today On Etsy: Unique Vintage Glass Pendant Beads

2010-08-03T16:54:00.000-04:00

We've had these beautiful & quite unique vintage glass pendant beads for a while but never really did much with them. I think we used to sell them at bead shows back "in the day" but I haven't seen them in ages. To me they always had an oriental look and the raised decoration on the front has a slightly glossy surface. All in all a pretty cool little pendant bead. OK, not so little since they measure 30mm. They are sold by the pair - just follow the link to see for yourself:

Vintage 30mm Turquoise Look Fancy Glass Pendant Beads

Etsy Team ESST - What's The "ESST" Mean Anyway?

2010-07-25T20:26:00.000-04:00

Well, according to the powers that be the "ESST" stands for "Etsy Supply Street Team". Yup, I'm sure - I even looked it up! I honestly think is should stand for "Etsy Supply Specialist Team" or "Etsy Super Supply Team" or something along those lines because that's what it is. A way to simplify your search on Etsy is to go to the supplies section on the pull down search menu and just type "ESST." I just did this & got over 24,000 listings of quality items like beads, lace, findings, etc. Too many items or not specific enough? No problem! After ESST just type in the item you are looking for. Here's a hint: type vintage beads for a real shopping treat. It just doesn't get any easier than that!

Happy searching and even happier shopping!

Red White and Blue Team ESST Slideshow

2010-06-15T22:42:00.001-04:00

Long, hot, lazy summer days...the perfect time to get caught up on some designing and don't forget crafts with the kids! Team ESST makes shopping on Etsy a breeze. Just search Team ESST and you will find a huge assortment of jewelry and crafts supplies for all your projects. My shops beadbrats and eastofoz have lots of great beads and for even more inspiration have a look at the selections in this fun Team ESST red, white and blue themed slide show:

This digital slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Oh, and let's not forget Father's Day! Here's to all you Dads:

This greeting generated with Smilebox

Summertime...And The Shopping Is Easy...

2010-05-25T16:34:00.001-04:00

OK, so that's a tad hokey but a girl can only do so much! In this hemisphere we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of summer and here in America we kick it off with the long Memorial Day holiday weekend. When you are enjoying these long, lazy days be sure to pop into Etsy to see what great supplies the Etsy Supply Street Team (Team ESST) has to offer. We have just about every jewelry and craft supply there is and you can have it all without breaking a sweat or burning expensive gas. While surfing Etsy for those summer supplies be sure to search Team ESST for a great selection!

Here's a summer slide show featuring some of our team's members offerings:

This picture slideshow created with Smilebox

It was prepared by Karen, and her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/RunsWithScissors4 is well worth a visit.

Of course we haven't forgotten our friends in the Southern Hemisphere and you will find lots of great autumn tone items, too. Remember everyone - it's never too early to start those you-know-what holiday projects, either. They don't call it Christmas in July for nothing!

The Special Team ESST Promo Continues!

2010-04-18T18:19:00.020-04:00

In true team spirit a number of us are spending some time being ambassadors for our team mates & their Etsy shops. Instead of just promoting ourselves & our own Etsy shops we are taking turns promoting each other - what a splendid way to work together. I hope you will join the Etsy Supply Street Team in this special promotion and visit each shop. Purchases are optional but appreciated (hint hint). Every couple of days I will post the address of a different shop and I hope you will make it a point to visit them!

Here is a team shop with the most fabulous fiber:
http://www.Threadsinthebed.etsy.com

Yes we're going to a Sparty party...

2010-04-15T20:10:00.007-04:00

The countdown is almost run down to zero. As I type this there are less than two hours left before the season finale of "Spartacus: Blood and Sand". I must admit that I await if with mixed feeling. After all, the title of the episode is "Kill Them All" so I am wondering how many of the characters that I love to hate will be around for next season. I never though I would see the day when I became such an avid fan of a TV show that includes routine fighting, decapitation, disembowlments and enough spurting blood to make anyone who misses watching ER really happy. I resisted watching this Starz cable network series when it first came on in January. My comment was that it would be too gross and disgusting. At one point about midway through the series I caught a few minutes of it and I was hooked. OH EM GEE, what a bunch of folks! If you can look past all the gratuitous sex and violence you will see the greatest soap opera of all times. I made a point of getting all caught up and tonight it ends for an unknown period of time. Although renewed for a second season Sparty himself, actor Andy Whitfield, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and filming was put on hold while he undergoes treatment. A speedy and complete recovery is wished for him and the fans of this series (including me) are waiting for good news about his condition.

If you watch this show then enjoy! Are you having a Sparty Party? Cocktails, snacks and yelling "Jupiter's C**k" are purely optional! You can always play party games while you wait for the episode to start. Maybe a pop quiz, for example who knows what the "Kirk Douglas" is? I do - I do! Hint: not all men are created equal. Now go ahead & Google it!

Earth Day...Mother's Day...Every Day a Holiday!

2010-04-15T19:55:00.002-04:00

Where is the year getting to? Here it is already half past April and Mother's Day will be here before you know it. Before you start designing your Mother's Day gifts be sure to go to Etsy & search Team ESST. Feel free to start in my shop but be sure to visit the others, too. You'll find a great selection of quality craft and jewelry supplies for all your gifting needs. Before you go, have a look at the fun Earth day slideshow created by Karen at RunsWithScissors using some of our team's shops:

Another free slideshow design by Smilebox

Let's Promote - Shall We?

2010-04-12T12:29:00.005-04:00

Let's Promote - Shall We?

Easter Greetings From The Etsy Supply Street Team

2010-04-02T11:19:00.002-04:00

This fun Easter slide show was created by my Etsy Supply Street Team-mate, Karen, whose Etsy shop is runswithscissors4. My vintage Venetian birds are in it & I hope you enjoy the show:

Another free picture slideshow by Smilebox

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-03-28T20:37:00.006-04:00

Now that winter is officially over it's time to start lightening up! Well, it will be once it starts getting warmer. Pretty soon we'll be putting away the coats and sweaters and pulling out our prettiest blouses and dresses so we'll definitely need some new jewelry and accessories to wear with them. If you shop on Etsy (and who doesn't?) the easy way to find everything you need for your warm weather designs is to search Team ESST. The Etsy Supply Street Team is a group of shop owners selling the most fabulous jewelry and crafting supplies on the web. I am a proud member of the team and my shop carries vintage beads, embellishments and other fun jewelry related goodies. Check out the list of team members by category to see what a great variety of supplies we all have.

For all our friends in the Southern Hemisphere looking towards autumn don't forget that you'll also find lots of fall and winter tones there, too.

24 Hours Without Email - or - OH NO! The Server Is Down

2010-02-21T14:51:00.011-05:00

How did we ever communicate before the internet? Well, before email we called each other up on the phone more or even (gasp!) wrote letters. Wow, those we the days weren't they? Not! I have just gone through approximately 24 hours without email due to some convoluted reason issued in a statement by my web host. I am guessing that what actually happened is that somebody spilled their coffee in a really really bad place and server fall down go boom. At least I'd like to think there was some sort of human interaction in this whole fiasco.

The point I am trying to make is that if you have sent a direct email to info@eastofoz.com since 2/20 4:00 pm there is a good chance that I will: a) never get it, b) get it soon or c) get it as soon as they wipe off the coffee, er, reboot the system. Lets keep our fingers crossed!

Update: As of 2/21 10:00 pm EST I am able to send & receive email but my web host still has outage warnings posted. Slow drying coffee I guess! You can also reach me via an Etsy convo. As of 2/25/10 our email is back to normal. Hooray!!!

February 26-28 Semi Annual ESST Sale & Free Vintage Bead Giveaway

2010-02-20T14:36:00.012-05:00

Now here's some exciting news! I am happy to announce the upcoming February 26-28 Semi Annual Etsy Supply Street Team Sale. For three fun filled days be sure to search Team ESST for all your supply needs and to take advantage of the various specials being offered. Every shop will be doing something different so search often to see what your favorite team members are offering for this event.

In our Etsy shop, BEADBRATS, you will receive a free 50 piece vintage flower & leaf bead assortment as shown with every purchase of $25.00 and up. These vintage beads are from Western Germany, Austria & Japan and include button back, flat back and center hole beads. Great for Spring & Summer! One free lot per customer, per day only please! Don't forget our everyday offer of free domestic shipping for a minimum $25.00 purchase and free international shipping for a minimum $50.00 purchase. Shipping charges are refunded via PayPal after payment is received.

This is going to be a great event & lots of fun for all! We're all looking forward to seeing you!

How Many Shopping Days Until Valentines Day?

2010-01-11T21:48:00.003-05:00

I'm not exactly sure just how many shopping days there are until Valentines Day but as anyone looking for a gift knows there are never enough! Well nothing says "I love you" more than something handcrafted and there's an easy way to find the perfect supplies at the perfect prices, too. Just go to Etsy and search "Team ESST" to find the best beads, findings and craft supplies. Shop in comfort day or night - we're all open 24/7 - and you'll see just how much fun shopping can be. Don't forget that jewelry and craft supplies make the perfect gift for all the crafty people on your list, too.

My shop offers free worldwide shipping of our vintage beads with a minimum purchase. Many other shops offer different specials so be sure to check us out! Happy Valentines Day!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T21:20:00.002-05:00

Now that the 2009 holiday season is in the bag we turn our sights to whatever this new year has in store for. Ever hopeful, we wish and pray for an upturn in the economy, health, happiness and peace all around us. I have tried to think of a suitable quotation to sum up my feelings for the new year. I give you two to choose from and depending on whether your glass is half full or half empty you can select a favorite.

One is: Hope is passion for what is possible.
-- Soren Kierkegaard.

The other is: The light at the end of the tunnel is the headlight of the oncoming train.
-- Unknown.

Happy 2010!

Still Shopping? Of Course You Are! Let Team ESST Help!

2009-12-04T20:53:00.004-05:00

OK, so we're already into December and there's still holiday shopping to be done. Don't panic! There's still time to create gifts and if there is anyone crafty on your list why not buy them supplies? It's the perfect gift whether they make jewelry, sew, scrapbook, do needlework, decoupage, macrame - I could just go on & on & on. The best selection at the best prices are a few keystrokes away. Just sign into Etsy and search "supplies" by typing in Team ESST. I just did that and got almost 24,000 listings. Don't worry, on the left side of the page these listings are broken down into categories such as beads, scrapbooking, handmade, fabric, button,knitting, etc.

Wouldn't it be more fun to spend a peaceful weekend in front of the computer with some hot cocoa instead of at a crowded mall wondering where you left you car? Remember when you shop on Etsy shoes are optional!

Shameless plug follows: You are welcome to start your supply search in my shop where worldwide shipping is free (with minimum purchase). We specialize in vintage beads, sew on embellishments and trimmings in never used condition. We're open 24/7, too!

Happy Holidays!

Search Team ESST For Your Holiday Supplies

2009-11-19T12:30:00.006-05:00

If you shop on Etsy, and you should, be sure to search Team ESST for all of your supply needs. There is a vast assortment of great vintage and new supplies just ready and waiting for your jewelry and crafting projects and gifts. Not crafty but need something for those who are? Beads, findings, components, etc., will make wonderful presents for all the do it yourselfers and designers on your list. They make fabulous stocking stuffers, too.

Searching Team ESST will bring you straight to the best supply sellers ever! Oh, and if you are fond of vintage beads and other vintage supplies stop by our Etsy shop and have a look. Our everyday shipping policy includes free worldwide shipping with a minimum purchase.

To Stress or Not To Stress? The Holiday Count Down 2009

2009-11-14T13:53:00.006-05:00

OK, so just a couple of weeks ago I did my annual pre-holiday rant, except this time I did it in public! I've always felt that the holiday season gets crammed down our throats earlier & earlier each year and I still stand by that. However, I have had an epiphany of sorts and no, it did NOT involve three ghosts and seeing my entire life fly past my eyes in gritty black and white.

This time I have decided to embrace my inner child and just go for it. After all, once you get past all the crass commercialism and realize that major chain stores who offer extended credit, deferred payments and lay away are not really after our friendship (just our money) then what's left is good will and the perpetual hope for peace on earth. Right? Well cynicism aside there is a certain amount of truth in that belief.

So this weekend I have decided to get my jingle on and up goes our tiny little tree and the sparkling lights and the tinsel garlands and whatever other stuff we have to decorate with. I will draw the line at the nativity set and will hold that back for at least another month. I don't expect Mary to spend a full half of her last trimester kneeling on top of my television set. I will leave her to rest peacefully in her bed of tissue paper until a more appropriate time.

I will also hold off a bit on the holiday music - probably until after Thanksgiving. That gives me another couple of weeks to prepare to make the transition from Snow Patrol to Let it Snow.

It's Veterans Day - Have You Hugged A Soldier Today?

2009-11-10T21:42:00.011-05:00

When I was in school I took holidays for granted. After all a day off was a day off. When I entered the workforce I still kind of had the same mindset except this time the stakes were higher. Then it was a "day off with pay" kind of thing. When I became self employed and said goodbye to paid sick leave and holidays I started paying closer attention to what was going on around me. I finally took the time to smell the roses, so to speak. So although I knew that November 11th was Veterans Day, is a federal holiday and is to honor our service personnel I didn't know how this day came about.

I did some quick research (gotta love the internet) and discovered the following:

November 11th is Veterans Day. Why that particular date? Well, during WWI on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 an armistice was declared between the Allied Nations and Germany. Originally known as Armistice Day it went on to be known as Veterans Day and became a federal holiday in 1938. The holiday is dedicated to all American war veterans and is a day to remember and honor them and all Americans in the military. This is rather overly simplified information and I urge you all to look it up and do a little reading. You won't look at this holiday the same ever again. I know I won't.

I would like to personally honor my favorite veteran, my husband, with the enclosed photo. He served in the Air Force and I had to twist his arm for his permission to use this photo in my blog.

Let us not forget all those who served and never came home.

Trick or Treat? Team ESST To The Rescue!

2009-10-30T17:16:00.003-04:00

This is such a stressful weekend! Between wishing the kids would stop ringing your doorbell so you could eat all the candy yourself and trying to remember exactly when you are supposed to change the clocks - it's enough to drive you batty! Why not de-stress and do a little surfing on Etsy? After all, now that Halloween is here the rest of the holidays are just around the corner (say what - oh just read my previous post!) so time is a wastin'.

Get all of your holiday gift supply shopping in gear the easy way - just search team ESST for all of your jewelry and craft supplies. If it's on Etsy this is the best way to find it and if it's not then you probably don't really need it anyway. You know, if you're gonna be Santa for the holidays we'd really like to be your elves!

Happy Holidaze...Happy Holidaze...

2009-10-30T16:14:00.005-04:00

It used to be that the arrival of Santa at the end of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade was the official kick off of the Christmas holiday season. Decorations and lights went up, Christmas Club savings were budgeted and spent as children everywhere started snooping around hoping to find that much desired toy hidden under their parents' bed. After all, our parents had explained that Santa gets so busy that sometimes parents help him out and who cared who brought it as long as it was under the tree? I had a weakness for dolls and when I used to find the wrapped gifts my Mom had oh so carefully stashed I would gently peel back the tape on one end and sniff the box. Doll plastic had a unique odor and the right smell was sheer heaven!

As years passed and our awareness of other beliefs broadened it generically became the "Holiday Season" with no mention of any particular faith or holiday. Santa's arrival no longer had the impact it used to and holiday gift related television advertising started showing up earlier and earlier. At some point there was absolutely no mention of the ensuing holiday season until after Halloween and now that barrier has been trampled. For the last week or so I have been seeing some heavy handed holiday type TV commercials. I give it another few years and perhaps we'll start kicking off the season just after Labor Day. Can you imagine seeing Santa in a speedo? Catching those last few rays before his busy season begins? Oh my, that image makes me want to run and make some eggnog margaritas!

Anyway, since you have probably already made your list and checked it twice might I suggest somewhere to shop that's always nice? How about...Etsy? Let's face it - you're gonna shop. You know you are so why not do it the easy way? Why waste gas by driving to the mall when you can kick off your shoes, pick up your mouse and click your way to holiday gift heaven? Oh, and don't forget the eggnog margaritas - it makes shopping so much more fun!

Vintage Sew On Jewels - Our Newest Shop Additions

2009-10-11T23:30:00.006-04:00

Now just how fun are these? Just in time for holiday designs, but perfect for whenever a little somethin' somethin' is called for. If you follow the link to our shop & go to the list of sections just click on "Sew On Jewels" to see what's currently listed. There's more coming, too! What's that? You aren't familiar with them? OK, here's the scoop: they are generally "foiled" flat back glass cabochons set into a metal bezel with either holes, channels or some other type of openings on the back. These openings were meant for sewing but they are fabulous in jewelry, mixed media designs, quilts, doll clothes, embellishments...you name it!

There are also some that have glass pieces bonded to a frosted glass backing with two holes & some that are just flat backs with holes. I also put some crystal pieces in this category, too. The montage shows a small selection of some of the pieces currently listed in our Etsy shop. I hope you'll have a look & please ask any questions you might have!

Welcome to the September Weekend Shopping Extravaganza

2009-09-05T19:22:00.002-04:00

It's that time again! Welcome to the September Weekend Shopping Extravaganza sponsored by the Etsy Supply Street Team - Team ESST for short. Now that summer is winding down it's time to start thinking of holiday gifts and projects. Autumn is just around the corner and then it's Halloween, Thanksgiving, etc. I won't even mention the really BIG ones yet. Yeah...I know...you've barely gotten the kids back in school and you want some "me" time. What better way to spend that precious me time than to visit the many great Etsy shops owned by members of the Etsy Supply Street Team - ESST.

Enjoy your holiday weekend with the fabulous beads and other supplies offered by our team members. We all hope you'll drop in and say hello!

Every shop will have different sales and or specials. My shop, beadbrats, is offering free US shipping for all orders $25.00 and up and free International shipping for orders $50.00 and up. Please read the notice in my shop announcement for complete details.

On Saturday September 5th & Sunday September 6th be sure to search "team esst" (without quotes) for the best deals on the finest supplies (vintage ones in my shop) on Etsy! Here is a link to the promo thread to up to date postings and individual shop specials: http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6273078

Welcome to the August Weekend Shopping Extravaganza

2009-07-31T19:32:00.005-04:00

Hello all! Now that summer is really bearing down on us how about spending this coming weekend doing some cool shopping? Just kick off your shoes, crank up the AC and visit the many great Etsy shops owned by members of the Etsy Supply Street Team - ESST. With a cool beverage in one hand and your mouse in the other you can browse away to your heart's content in cool comfort. If you happen to be in the other hemisphere just reverse the temps substituting heat for AC and add some fuzzy slippers and a warm beverage. It will be great regardless of the weather!

Every shop will have different sales and or specials. My shop, beadbrats, is offering free worldwide shipping for all orders $21.00 and up. Please read the notice in my shop announcement for complete details.

On Saturday August 1st & Sunday August 2nd be sure to search "team esst" (without quotes) for the best deals on the finest supplies (vintage ones in my shop) on Etsy! Here is a link to the promo thread to up to date postings and individual shop specials: http://http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6236075

Now Here's a Fun Site to Visit

2009-06-28T11:52:00.005-04:00

If you've never visited this site you should: http://tryhandmade.com/bits-and-bobs . The title is the link (until I figure out how to include links in the text!!!) It's a great place for and about talented artists and designers. I am pleased to mention that some of our vintage Venetian beads were recently featured supplies here in "Bits and bobs" .

Summer Special - Free Shipping Stimulus Plan

2009-06-24T21:46:00.002-04:00

On the spur of the moment I just decided to offer a "Free Shipping Stimulus Plan" in honor of the official start of summer. Yes, I know that was three days ago but it's been a busy week! The details are all outlined in my etsy shop but basically it's free domestic and international shipping on all orders $21.00 and up. Why $21.00? Because summer started on June 21st!

SECOND ANNUAL YART SALE sponsored by Team ESST – June 10-14, 2009 = MORE Free Shipping from Beadbrats!

2009-06-08T19:30:00.007-04:00

The “2nd Annual Yart Sale” will be held from Wednesday June 10th - Sunday June 14th, 2009. This year the “2nd Annual Yart Sale” will be sponsored by the Etsy Supply Street Team (Team ESST). Although not an official Etsy event, it is Etsy supported as evidenced by the Storque article (title is link to this article). A “Yart Sale” is an artistic spin on the traditional Yard Sale: Art + Yard Sale = “Yart Sale”.

This is my first year as a team member so I have decided to participate with the following offer: FREE SHIPPING! Yup, more free shipping! All orders received until midnight on Sunday, June 14th will receive free first class shipping. Terms and details are as follows:

"Payment is still expected and appreciated within three days of order. All times are my local time (EDT). This offer is for domestic & international shipping. I will issue refunds for the shipping portion of your order via PayPal. Once your payment is received I will go ahead & issue a paypal refund for the shipping charge."

Team ESST invites you to come, post, chat and shop on the “Official Yart Sale” thread in the Promotions Section of the Etsy forums. A new thread will be posted daily at 7:00 AM EDT beginning on Wednesday June 10th by the Etsy Supply Street Team with the forum title:
“SECOND ANNUAL YART SALE sponsored by Team ESST – June 10th, 2009”

So come on by & join in the fun!

Beadbrats' Etsy Shop Free Shipping Offer

2009-05-31T17:19:00.004-04:00

Here's the info that is currently posted in my shop announcements:

♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥ IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT! ♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥

May 27, 2009: We are leaving for the Bead & Button Show in Milwaukee this weekend and will not be shipping between May 30th & June 11th or 12th. HOWEVER...all PAID ORDERS received between Midnight on Thursday May 28th and Midnight on Wednesday June 10th will be shipped for free. Payment is still expected and appreciated within three days of order. All times are my local time (EDT). This offer is for domestic & international shipping and the more you buy - the more you save! I will issue refunds for the shipping portion of your order via PayPal. Our other shop, eastofoz, will be closed for vacation during this period.

This is being "blogged" in a somewhat untimely manner but the information is still relevant. If you don't mind waiting longer for your order then shipping is on me! I'm making the refunds via PayPal and all seems to be going smoothly so far. So go ahead, take advantage of me!

I've Been Neglecting Our Other Shop - Shame On ME!

2009-05-13T07:13:00.003-04:00

I launched our second Etsy shop, East of OZ, in December of 2008. I had every intention of keeping it stocked up with some of our more unusual, collectible glass beads and unique stone beads. Like all good intentions (and most New Year's Resolutions) it kind of got neglected and the stock dwindled. Shame on me!!! I am starting to list beads in that shop again and today I am working on some cool Venetian fancy and trade beads. I will hand select some great stone beads at our show this weekend and will get them listed next week. If you like unique and unusual I hope you'll stop in for a visit.

Vintage Swarovski Crystal Bead Info - Part 2

2009-05-10T08:24:00.003-04:00

In October 1999 I sent an email to Swarovski in Austria asking for info to help me date their older beads accurately. I received a response from them that I wanted to share. I couldn't figure out the best way to do this so I decided to just post the actual emails. Since it's a bit too long to put on this page just click on the title (it's a link) and it will take you right to it. Nothing has been changed, it's a simple cut and paste document. I did block out all the names and email addresses because after all, this is the Internet!

I hope this information is of use to you!

Attention Shoppers...Free Beads...Keep Reading...

2009-05-07T07:45:00.005-04:00

It's may madness time on Etsy. Come & celebrate the "FIRST WEEKEND SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA" MAY 7TH - MAY 10TH. Search ESST for great weekend specials from Etsy Supply Street Team Members.

As a proud team member I am giving away a free full size package of vintage flower and/or leaf beads (my choice) with every order over $25.00! This offer applies to all orders received during this special weekend and expires at midnight on Sunday.

Vintage Swarovski Crystal Bead Info - Part 1

2009-04-25T12:54:00.004-04:00

When selling vintage the first question I usually hear is "How old are these"? One of the easiest types of beads to date accurately are Swarovski crystal beads, especially if they are still in their original packaging. There's a lot of incorrect information floating around so I would like to offer some factual information to help clear it up.

If I have done this correctly (I'm still pretty blog-challenged) you should be able to click on the chart at the right to see it full sized. It's a conversion chart of old and new Swarovski article numbers (basically a style number) next to a line drawing of the bead. Now the trick is to know when the numbers were changed. In 1968 the numbers were converted to 4 digits so you know that if the 2 or 3 digit number is printed on the package or box they were made prior to then.

More to come...

April 24 is Etsy Day - So Go and Buy Something Already!

2009-04-24T11:45:00.014-04:00

Today is Etsy Day! Unless you lead an extremely sheltered life you must have heard of Etsy. Today is a celebration of all things Etsy, a fab collection of shops selling unique handmade items, unusual vintage and the absolutely best jewelry, craft and art supplies on the web. Remember to search for Etsy Supply Street Team member shops when you search for supplies. A great place to start would be by clicking on any item listed in my Etsy shop - hint, hint! I am a proud team member and support all Team ESST members, too. The easy way to find us is to search ESST!

Happy Anniversary to Me!

2009-04-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Every woman who has had breast cancer has a different way of determining when they became a survivor. For me, it is the day that the cancer was surgically removed from my body. That was on April 23, 2008 so I am celebrating my one year anniversary today. Happy anniversary to me.

We are all survivors of something. Sometimes it's obvious, sometimes it's not. We do what we can...we heal..we survive..we celebrate.

On the Road Again

2009-04-21T11:26:00.002-04:00

Geez, what is it with me & these song titles? We have added a couple of last minute listings to our show schedule and my dear husband will be doing shows in the Carolinas the next two weekends. On April 25 & 26 he'll be in Winston-Salem, NC & the following weekend, May 2 & 3 he'll be in Columbia, SC. If you are in the area & like beads please stop in and say hi.

He will not have the same beads that are in our Etsy shop but will have lots of great gemstone beads, some vintage and a neat assortment of closeouts. There's also a great selection of really well priced seed beads: new, vintage & antique.

Follow the link to our website show schedule for complete details.

Holy Headache Batman, Music on a blog?

2009-04-20T16:29:00.002-04:00

Oh why the hell not? I listen to music when I work, in fact that's how my husband can tell what kind of mood I'm in. Music playing=good, quiet=not so good. Anyway, I decided to give you the option of music on or off, depending on your particular mood. I've started with some stuff that I like in the hopes that you'll like it too. Enjoy!

Like a Virgin...

2009-04-03T15:19:00.002-04:00

I've always considered myself better than average where all things technical are concerned but this blog thing has me baffled! Hopefully I will keep at it, figure it out and actually make it a fun place to visit. Maybe it's just too easy for my complicated mind to grasp?

People who know me are aware that I always have something to say about everything. Let's see if this is the case!