Kewt Kids

2009-06-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

Kewt Kids Kewt Stuff can now be found over at our very own website

www.kewtkids.com

You can read whats new, shop on the site and see how to find out what great deals are available.

Kewt Dress In Summer Garden

2009-06-01T21:12:00.001-07:00

Kewt Dress In Summer Garden

Posted using ShareThis

Sneak Peek

2009-05-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

Since my online shop is still being developed I thought I'd share a few of the 'summer' items that will be available to purchase online soon.

Sizes range from 6 months to 7 years but not every style is available in every size.

For the Environment

2009-05-22T21:35:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I have never been a huge 'save our planet' mind of person.

Sure I recycled if it wasnt too much work. I tried to not waste and to re-use if possible. It was just never a huge part of my life.

Well recently I have been trying to take little steps in improving my commitment to the planet.

Here are some of the things our family is trying to do to better the earth.

1) we recycle everything now. yes that means taking those annoying pieces of plastic off the cardboard boxes and separating them.
2) we re use bags, use cloth grocery bags and even re-usable produce bags (great product by the way).
3) buy in bulk so there is less packaging (this helps on budget too). this is one we are really struggling with as so many foods are over packaged.
4)I've started looking at containers items some in to see if they can be recycled. If they cant I think twice about product.
5)at least once a week I try to use a re-usable coffee cup instead of a to go (I love to-go cups-sorry)
6)drive less if we can.
7)one year old is mostly in cloth diapers now.
8)our new house is a 'green house'. this means it is low energy, high efficiency and is even landscaped to be the best community it can be. the whole water/drainage system is a thing of amazement

I was thinking about watering the plants with collected rain water. but then a big bin of water is a safety hazard for my kids. I'd like to compost but I dont have a veggie garden to use it on and I dont have time to have a veggie garden.
we'd like to drive less but life dictates a bit of driving.

We are trying to find more ways to do more and hopefully will keep adding to the list.

Positive Thinking

2009-05-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

(photo has absolutely nothing to with post-just wanted it here)
I have been having a weird thing happen to me lately.
I seem to have the power to 'will' people and things into my life.

Okay so I dont think I have a special power but I am finding it happening too often to just shrug off.

It all started a few weeks ago. I was thinking a lot about a person I hadnt seen in over 3 years. I was wondering how they were, what they were up to, etc. So I kept telling myself that I really wanted to know about this persons recent life. For about a week I thought often about this person. Then it happened-I ran into them at the store.

Okay this person lives in the same city and could happen but it hadnt for three years.

So then I find a contest online. I tell myself I really would like to win it. I keep thinking about winning the prize (nothing big). -Well, I won it. Now I dont win things-ever!

So now is when I realize that these two things have happened after me thinking positively about each of them.

So I want to test it.

I tell myself I want to hear from a friend that I havent spoken to for awhile.
Next day-I get an email from her.

Still, she's a friend and eventually she would have emailed so that was an easy co-incidence.

Now I pick someone harder. An old co-worker that I havent seen from in about 5 years. I dont email her or have her as a facebook friend even. I think she lives within 30 mins of me but still have never seen her in last 5 years. I keep thinking about how I'd like to see her. Well 4 days later-I see her!
Stupid thing is I was so spooked by this that I couldnt even talk to her and just walked the other way.

So now I dont know what to think.
I am not one of those 'think it and it will happen' people.
I am just not that positive ;).
but yet...............

I might just keep trying this thing.

I have another person in my head that I would really like to run into and have in my life again. I am thinking lots about her and trying to 'will' her into my life.

I am pretty sure there is some whole 'movement' like this or some book and such that talks about 'positive thinking'. I am not going to be reading it.

All I know is that it cant hurt to think about people I care about and want them to be in my life again. And even if it doesnt 'bring' them back in maybe it might just encourage me enough to contact some of them myself.

Oh and I'm pretty sure this application to my life wont work with 'material' goods-i'm not going out and buying lotto tickets anytime soon.

(yes I won a contest but I think that was just to make me realize the other had occured.)

Fabrics Galore

2009-05-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

I love fabric.

It is usually the inspiration of my products and the creation of new lines for the company.

Apparently there are not enough other people that feel the same way. Several months ago the only fabric store in my city shut down. Okay not that bad-there was another store close to work and I could just make trips then (30 mins away from home). Well now that store has shut down as well.

Now my option involves bridges and rush hour and a major inconvenience. But in some ways this has turned out to be a good thing.

I am now buying more fabric online which allows me to have fabric that all other 'local' companies dont use in their product lines as well. The variety online is much greater and I find more that I really love.

The problem however is that most fabrics online are available from the USA. This means the costs are in US dollars and I often get hit with duty charges on top of shipping. Another problem is that some fabrics are just too heavy to justify shipping charges. It makes no sense for me to order fabric that costs twice the cost to ship it here. All of this results in prices having to go up a bit to cover extra costs. I try as hard as I can to keep costs as reasonable as I can but may have to 'tweek' a few items or re-visit some products.

I hope I can continue to find great fabrics at reasonable prices so I can keep providing high-quality products for great prices!

Features

2009-04-07T17:13:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the following two blogs for writing about Kewt Kids

My friend's daughter decided to 'feed' her elmo doll and used the No peek-a-boobie for some privacy.

and
tiny wiggles featured some items

Dribble Bandana Bib

I think these are so cute, and there nice because there different then your average bib! KewtKids has a variety of colour's and patterns for these wonderful bibs. Check them out at www.kewtkids.etsy.com.

As Kewtkids elegantly puts it: A creative and unique alternative to the traditional bib! Keep your little one dry while being stylish at the same .

And their Dino Day Baby Gift Set is perfect for any baby shower. It's super cute.

The Final Push

2009-04-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

This is the last month before www.kewtkids.com becomes a full online shopping store.
It has been a crazy month trying to figure out all the stuff that goes into the site and getting everything prepared.
I am very excited to have my studio photos ready now. I have started to use some of them in my etsy store. They look great and I think they will work great on the site.
(thanks Evan form freestyle photography-www.freestylephotography.ca)

I am also currently making all those pretty little summer dresses for your girls (sorry boys I will try to get something for you in the making). I have some great bold prints that I think will be adorable!

My family is also in the midst of moving. So the house is chaotic and I dont help it any by insisting that my sewing room stays intact till the end.

Oh and thanks to www.tinywiggles.com for bloggin about my items!
It always makes me happy to see others loving my stuff!

Kewt Dribble Bandana Bibs

2009-03-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

I'm just going to post photos of current fabrics. I still need to take photos of a few more but there's lots to choose from.

Spring Time

2009-03-13T15:50:00.000-07:00

Well Spring is almost here and I think I am on track for my company goals.
It has not been easy lately as we have had our house up for sale and everytime we had a showing I would pack up all my work items and then lose something when I tried to un pack it.
Thankfully we sold.
We move very soon though and this will once again mean packing up and no doubt I will lose more things.

I am currently in the process of ordering cute bold prints for some funky, reversible summer dresses and long shorts. I am so excited to start making these items as it means the sun will soon be shining regularly.

The website is underway and will be fully ready this Spring-making it much easier and cost effective for my fellow Canadians to shop online. You can sign up on the site and you'll be notified when site is ready.

I have to say that I am really happy with my company and the way it is headed. I have always wanted to make sewing a part of my career and it seems like it is finally possible.

Burps, Bibs, Taggie Blankets and More

2009-02-25T13:12:00.000-08:00

Well here are a few of the 'new' style bibs and burp cloths that I have been working on plus a few new items.

Baby Big Bibs
$14 Can

These bibs are a great size, close with a high quality snap and have a very absorbent and soft chenille cotton backing.
A stylish bib available in several cute or funky cotton prints.
100% cotton
Machine washable an dryer friendly.

Baby Burp Cloths
$10 Can

These are super absorbent and super kewt!
Measuring an ample size of 8"X17" these burp cloths are sure to catch those messes.
Available in several cute or funky prints
100% cotton
Machine washable and dryer friendly

Family Fair 2009

2009-02-14T10:44:00.000-08:00

For those of you that live in the tri-cities and Maple Ridge Areas there is a great event coming up.
The 3rd Annual Family Fair is being held at the Executive Inn Grand Ballroom on Sunday March 1st, 2009 from 9 am till 4 pm.
The Event is a great showcase of products and event s available to families.
Kewt Kids is proud to be a part of the event this year and we will be having a small booth in the center of the room.

Kewt Kids will be showcasing some of this Springs Brand new Products and there will be great show specials. Also look for great deals on discontinued fabrics and products.

Bobs and Lolo will be on the main stage-great fun for the kids.

New Pacifier Clips

2009-02-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

The New Pacifier Clips have arrived!

A newer, stronger ribbon that has pattern showing on both sides.
Available for all types of pacifiers-handle, knob and soothie. Adapter part available for Mam brand pacifiers.
Retail for $5-6.50US

First Blog Feature

2009-02-10T09:10:00.000-08:00

Yeah someone chose one of my products to be featured in their blog.

It the Dribble Bandana Bib in Dinosaur Day
Here's what was shown:

Just how cute is this? Yes I do mean the baby and the bandanna bib. Kewt Kids made this great dino dribble catcher. The main problem I've found with bibs in the past is that babies have a naughty habit of moving their head to watch the cat go past and they drool past the side edges of conventional bibs. This one, however is beautifully wide. It's sure to keep your babies clothes nice and clean.

Thanks Autonomous Artisans!

Handy Strap Nursing Clips

2009-02-04T15:01:00.000-08:00

I am finally starting to get some of my new items going. This is actually an item that I have made for a long time but have not actively been selling and advertising it (I've been focusing on other things). But now its here

Its called the Handy Strap
It's original and main function is as a nursing strap. Clip both ends onto a light blanket, towel and use to secure a cover while nursing your little one. Its so small and compact that you can just leave it in your diaper bag, purse, and car so that its 'handy' when you need to nurse and perhaps forget the bigger nursing cover.
It has many more functions though that will make it useful when you stop nursing the baby.

* use with napkin to make a bib
* attach to toys, teethers and blankets and attach other end to stroller
* clip to stroller with blanket to make a sunshade

* tie a knot in middle of fabric section when you need strap shorter

Currently available in following patterns:
Pink Tropical, Black and Yellow Mod, Green Paisley Day, Lime and Pink Sunburst
Retail for $7.99ea
available at www.kewtkids.artfire.com
or by contacting cajonat@shaw.ca

*PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE CHILD UNATTENDED WITH STRAP. PARENTAL SUPERVISION REQUIRED*

New Products??

2009-01-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

Are there any items that you would like made? What products do you think I should create?
As I get towards the Spring and my full company launch I am trying to finalize my product line. I have a few items that are not yet for sale but want to see what everyone with kids and babies out there would like.
So far these are the items available by Kewt Kids

Dribble Bandana Bibs
The Happy Strap
The Handy Strap (nursing strap)-watch for this item to be in sites soon
The No-Peek-a-Boobie nursing cover
Baby bibs (revising style to have chenille terry on back)
Burp cloths (revising style to have chenille terry on back)
Stroller blankets (30X30 size-funky fabrics with minky dot back)
Taggie Blankets (still developing)
Little Leggings (stand still on this item. )
Pacifier Clips (all types of soothers)
Hair Clippies (watch for new ones to be available soon)
Reversible Apron Dresses (available late spring thru till fall)
Diaper Clutch (still developing)

I believe thats it right now (I'm sure I forgot something).

What else would you like from a baby/children's company?
email me at cajonat@shaw.ca and if I use your idea you could win your idea!

Valentines

2009-01-18T21:48:00.000-08:00

I have a few special dribble bandanas for Valentines day (and beyond)

I also have a boys one that I will get up tomorrow/tuesday.
Right now they are half off if you buy a regular one.

Dont forget to show the little ones in your life that you love them

(Also available are a few valentines bibs)

Can't Decide

2009-01-15T14:46:00.000-08:00

I need some help deciding.

I cant figure out what the best way to have prime photo for the Dribble Bandana. I generally have a shot of item on baby and then a side shot and front shot. Sometimes a back shot or packaging shot.

What I cant decide is if when you first view product it should be on baby or just side shot.
Here's the two pics

I am tending to use baby shot as first photo and then product only shots as second/third etc photos. I like this cause then you can see how item looks on and also know what it is right away. The product only shot works better though for those who know what item is and want to see it better.
When you do a product search and find the baby photo is it too much baby and too little bandana? When you are shopping for say a 'shirt' do you like to see it on model or just the shirt?
Just trying to decide on what would be best? Any input appreciated-thanks.

New Fabrics

2009-01-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

The Dribble Bandana is one of my most popular products. I have decided to only make a limited number of each pattern and therefore make them more 'unique' to you. I only produce 30 or less of each fabric and then I am onto a new fabric. This means that I am now constantly ordering in new fabric for my Dribble Bandanas.

I havent updated many photos lately so thought I'd share some of the newest fabrics.
I'd also like to note that I am working on gradually making all the Dribble Bandanas reversible. Most of them are now that way but there are a few fabrics that I just cant seem to co-ordinate very well with.

Don't forget about Kewt Kids products when you need a shower/baby gift. Just let me know its a gift and it will be wrapped and packaged perfectly.

It's a new year

2009-01-07T21:19:00.000-08:00

So I am way behind on all this blogging stuff.

Time just slips away and I find myself trying to actually 'do' more than just write about it. I do promise to update soon.

I have new fabrics, new products, new spots to buy and some other new things going on. I am looking forward to 2009 and hoping for great things to come from it.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-25T11:36:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone and their families a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season.

CHECK OUT THE SALE

HALF OFF THE ENTIRE STORE UNTIL DEC 27TH! NO EXCEPTIONS! SHOP QUICK AS ITEMS ARE LIMITED.

The Elf Journey

2008-12-18T20:02:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Done.....and Not Yet Done

2008-12-06T12:07:00.000-08:00

Wow am I behind on posting. The first thing on my 'not done' list.

Time is slipping away from me and blogging just hasnt made it to the 'done' list.

We are getting ready to go on our family vacation and I am trying to finish up Christmas orders before then.

I havent even started to pack.

I have finished most of my Christmas cards including having put the stamps on them.

The decorations are out of the attic, but still sitting in their boxes.

Extra furniture is in storage. Carpets have been cleaned.

House is still not on market yet.

Travel documents and reservations all together. Didnt get husbands passport in time though.

Pile of laundry is growing.

Goodwill and Christmas hamper stuff unloaded. (Search your house for new items that you are never going to use and donate them if you can.-it makes Christmas so much better for so many).

Money not converted. Bills not paid for when we are away.

Okay so the list isnt too bad. But I really should attend to all those others on the 'not done yet' list and check this one of the 'done' list.

Christmas

2008-11-26T22:58:00.000-08:00

The countdown is on in our house.

We like to break it into smaller sections so it makes the time go by faster.

First we have 5 more days till Dec 1st and the start of out family advent calender. This is a wall quilt that I made for the kids and tie daily presents to. The kids love it and look forward to it going up every year. We alternate days with the kids and since the boys now have a sister they will each get a gift every three days.

We are also at 7 more days of school till Dec break (my kids attend a school with an alternative calender that works 3 months on, one off. Love it.)

Then we have 14 more days till our disneyland vacation-I think I am just as excited as the kids! We are going away for a week and are just doing Anaheim this year. We have 8 days/ 7 nights and only have plans for 5 of those days. I am looking forward to Disneyland but I am also looking forward to the days of non-amusement park fun.

Next we have 23 days till our Christmas with my side of the family. This is a bit chaotic as it is only two days after returning from out vacation and we have to clean form the trip, buy and decorate a tree (yes, I live for real trees still) and do grocery shopping. Not exactly a relaxing time but I am still looking forward to it.

Then the big one. 30 days till Christmas! This year is the first year that my husband is on shift Christmas Eve and will not be home till Christmas morning. It seems a bit strange that I will be getting up with the kids by myself and that he will be missing the look in their eyes as they see the tree and tall the gifts surrounding it. I am not sure how long I can hold them back and can only hope to keep them satisfied with a few stocking gifts till he returns.

Then of course we have four birthdays to celebrate thrown in there. Two on the 19th, one on the 28th and our eldest son's on the 31st.

It is a crazy month but one that I look forward to all year long. Perhaps because it is just so busy that I dont need to come up with extra things to keep me busy all day long-they just appear.

Did I mention that I still cant sleep Christmas Eve because I am just too excited???!!

Canadian Handmade

2008-11-24T20:47:00.000-08:00

I thought I would start mentioning some of the lovely Canadian Businesses that I have come across lately. There are so many talented people and companies out there that it is sometimes hard to stay 'seen' in the virtual world. I find myself finding small businesses all the time that I love and would like to help 'throw' a small bit of extra traffic their way.

This week I have decided to choose five Canadian Shops from the ETSY site. In case you are unaware of etsy it is a handmade store site. Crafters set up shop, take photos of items for sale, write sale blobs and buyers can find all stores under one site-ETSY. It is a great site! (It also sells vintage and supplies but that's not my focus.) Since Etsy is composed of different sellers and shops be sure you read policies and shipping details before you purchase anything.

Shop One:

Specializing in funny, cute and nerdy custom printed apparel; these t-shirts, onesies and bibs make fantastic and unique gifts for yourself or others!

I am proud to custom print using professional materials, resulting in a high quality product. As well, all items are created and shipped from a clean air environment. Please take a look at the Shop Policies for more information about shipping and processes!
A couple of my favs:

Shop Two:

Welcome to Potatopatch!

Potatopatch offers unique potato stamped shirts for babies and kids. Each design is made by carving potatoes and stamping onto our shirts to create an original print. No two shirts are alike! Created in the heartland of potato country Alliston, Ontario, Canada our potatoes are supplied by local farmer Dorsey Farms. All of Potatopatch shirts are high quality 100% cotton and are applied with non-toxic fabric paint.

Let your children enjoy our playful clothing!

Some items that I think are delightful:

Shop Three:

I make most of my plushies kid safe. The first time I make something they are tried and tested by my one year old, so I know that they are safe and won't fall apart! However as with anything supervise children under three years of age. If it is NOT kid safe, I will add a note in the item description, so make sure you check!

Are these not Adorable!!

Shop Four:

First and foremost I'm a full time mother to my three gorgeous girls and wife to my busy musician husband. Life's hectic!, so in whatever spare time I have I enjoy being creative. I'm inspired by colors the way the work together and my kids! Doing these things has always allowed me to take some much needed time for myself, and while I'm at it, make some beautiful things for my friends and family.
After a while everybody told me to start selling this stuff!, so I started selling my items in some boutiques around town, and now I found Etsy, the internet is great! My children inspire most of my items and I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy making them. Lori :)

I dont think you can get anything cuter than the monkey hat. I am just struggling to decide what colour to order my daughters in!

Shop Five:

Welcome to Boysenberry Lane, where you will find unique and fuzzy fingerless glove/wrist warmers, zipper pouches and coffee cup cozies. I hope you find something you like today.

These would look adorable on any pre-teen girl

Craft Fairs

2008-11-22T21:09:00.000-08:00

Well I have completed #2 of the two fairs I decided to attend this year. Today's was not quite what I wanted it to be and was just not the right venue for me. Oh well, I will just not be doing that one again-live and learn I guess.

I do feel a sense of relief now that I am done them for the season. I don't have to focus all my energy on the immediate and I am really looking forward to starting my Spring collection.-Yes Spring collection and winter has not even actually begun.

I am planning a larger 'launch' of my company in the Spring. So I am working on professional photos, my website, new products, pamphlets and advertising right now. There's several things to think about and work on and finding all the time is the main issue.

Ho w Could I Forget

2008-11-17T15:14:00.000-08:00

How could I forget to mention one of my other favourite things.
The Starbucks Christmas Cups! I love those red cups! I was counting down the days till I got to use one-they truly brighten my days.
For those of you that dont' spend more money on coffee than they do gas (yes even when gas was unbelievable in the summer)-the cups (and drinks) started this past Thursday (nov 13th). I was in a store on Sat and could see the order of cups sitting in boxes all along the wall. I so wanted to get one then but decided the 5 min conversation I had with the barista the prior Thursday about the cups probably rendered me crazy enough already. So I patiently waited till the Thursday (7am) and got my first red cup of the season. I even used it later that day when I had a normal coffee at work.
I dont know why but the red cup just makes me smile.

2008-11-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

I realized the other day that Christmas is near. We are away to Disneyland for a week right before Christmas and that really speeds things up. So I was thinking about a few of my favourite things about this time of year. (I appologize to my friends that read my personal family blog-this is the same post).

1) Getting a Christmas tree. Yes, we still get a real tree. As much as I hate the clean up of needles (although I have found great trees the last few years that dont lose many needles), I find the activity of finding a real tree much more rewarding. We head out to a tree farm (one of the few bonus' of living in a smaller town-we live close to tree farms), find a tree that we all agree on, cut it down, have hot chocolate, head home, let the tree dry out while we pull decorations out, eat a quick dinner and then decorate the tree. I love this day.

2) Our Advent Calender. I made an advent calender for the kids back when J-Man was just nearly two. I find little gists for the kids and tie them on and each day they take turns opening one gift. This year they will have a turn every three days. It's a lot of work but something the kids really love and look forward to. The calender always ends with special ornaments for each of them. We try to find a special ornament that represents something they were interested in that year. One year J-Man had a monster truck and one year Wild had a Pixar Cars. This year I think we are looking at Pokemon for sure.

3) New pajamas. I don't know how this started but we all get new pj's on Christmas Eve. It ends our Christmas Eve night and everyone goes to bed in their new pj's (looks good for morning pics too ;) ).

4) The Vancouver Rogers Santa Clause Parade. This is the 5th year this event is on and we only missed year 3 (I was very sad for weeks). I love this parade. They heave done a phenomenol job on this event and I think everyone should go! The parade is big scale. Police psycho motorbikes (if you are at the curb keep feet back-they go about 80kms an hour), big highschool marching bands (we recruit them mostly from the states), and great cultural floats. This year the parade is later in the year (its always been in Nov) and is on Sun, December 7th at 1pm. Arrive early (12pm at latest) if you want a sidewalk spot. Great tip-if its cold and kids are little I highly suggest you park in Pacific Center underground parking Bay end. Go upstairs to street level, cross street and go into chapters. Go upstairs to south end (windows facing west) and sit by windows. You can get Starbucks (be prepared for 30 min wait), be warm, still hear all music and grab kids books to look at if they are restless. Greatest idea ever when Wild was 1 and 2. This year the kids have said they want to be on Robson closer to the start so we are prepared to be really early and have chairs.

So these are just a few of my top favourite things about the season. Tomorrow I am pulling out some decorations and think we need way more. I love how festive the house looks when its all decorated. Oh and on Friday we counted eight house with Christmas lights already.

5)Okay one more. Driving around and looking at all the really decorated houses in the lower mainland. Love doing this. I think when we have our own house I will slowly grow into one of these crazy people that go all out.

6)Just one more (I truly love the season). The Stanley park Christmas train. We do this with great friends of ours each year. You get to see the lights and the animals and eat roasted chestnuts (gross-do not like that tradition). Buy tickets now if you want to know.

New Soother Clip Style Directions

2008-11-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

Sorry I said I'd post these last week and never did. Here are the photo instructions on how to use the new soother clips. Just in case you need some help.

Step One:
Hold soother clip by loop end.

Step Two:
Thread the loop end through the handle of the soother. (will look best if print side is facing you)

Step Three:
Pull the clip end through the loop of soother clip ribbon

Step Four:
Pull tightly so loop closes around handle.

I am also going to post a few photos of how to use the clip on the soother clips.

Step One:
Pull up on tab at back end of clip.

Step Two:
Insert piece of clothing between clip jaws.
Step Three:
Push down on back part of clip tab.

Step Four:
To remove copy step one.

Craft Fairs

2008-10-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

So I decided to try a couple of craft fairs this season. My first one is next weekend (Nov 8 and 9) and the larger of the two. It all seemed like a great idea at first but now I am having second thoughts. Mostly because I forgot how much work they are.

Since I make the items myself at my home I have a very quick turn around time. Very often I have a couple packaged items of one style but most items are only partially completed until I get an order for that item. This saves me both money and time by not packaging items that dont end up selling.

This system doesnt work for craft fairs. Everything needs to be completed and ready to sell. And you need a lot of everything-about four times what you'd like to sell. People like to see a big variety and more than one of an item. Everyone wants to feel that they 'chose' their item. (I won't get into the entire psychology of purchasing but a customer that wants a black sweater and already knows they want the black sweater will still look at the sweater in red and blue only to buy the black sweater. That way they 'choose' the black sweater.)

So here I am trying to get a great stock of items to fill my tables and offer variety and choice. I am also feeling flustered about table layout and presentation. Just planning the set-up is taking hours.

My second craft fair is two weeks after the first (Nov 22). I dont know if I'm hoping I have lots of stock left from the first one so I dont have to work like a sweatshop worker for two weeks. No I am not hoping that. I would like to sell lots at the first one (of course) and hopefully the boost in spirit of sales will make the extra work those two weeks seem easier.

If you'd like to visit me and see how it all works out (and get great deals) here's the info:

Carney Stars Craft Fair
Arch Bishop Carney HighSchool
Port Coquitlam, B.C.
(behind costco)-good signage on streets already

Sat Nov 8 and Sun Nov 10
9-4 10-3

Riverside Craft Fair
Port Coquitlam, B.C.
Pitt River Road (west of shaugnessy)

Sat Nov 22
10-4

Hope to see you there!

A Soothing Idea

2008-10-23T20:24:00.001-07:00

I was waiting and waiting for my snap order to arrive so I could complete the piles of projects that are overtaking my sewing studio. They finally arrived yesterday and I ran upstairs to start attaching them to all that needed them.

I was working on some of the pacifier clips when I started to think that maybe I didnt need snaps on them. I know there are a lot of parents that don't like snaps on baby products and won't buy items with snaps. I started to think about this. (I always take extra care when putting on my snaps and feel they are safe and use all my products with my own baby). But I do understand the fear of small items around babies and toddlers.

So I thought 'why don't I make a loop at top just like my happy straps?' So I tried it on a few and it works great. No small pieces at top end that attaches to soother and just a clip at other end that is double stitched on. My problem is this-will others know how to use a pacifier clip like this? Does the general public know how to use a loop when they want to attach things? I will have to write instructions on packaging and I am thinking an online visual demonstration might be usefull-actually an online visual for the happy strap might be a good idea as well.

I am still going to keep my other style with the snaps but perhaps offer both kinds and see what sells better. What's your opinion?

(I will post some pics later today so you can have a better idea of what I mean)

It's Getting Cold Out Here

2008-10-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

There's been a major shift in weather here the past few weeks. It wasnt long ago that we were all still wearing our shorts and leaving the house with short sleeve shirts on. Not anymore. It is officially cold out.

The heat has been on in the house for a week now and the vehicles are all frosty in the morning. I hate the mornings now (okay I never really like mornings). I never want to get out of my nice warm covers and I really never want to go out and warm the truck up before we head to school.

Did I say that I hate the mornings now?

But the colder weather has sparked a few new ideas for projects. I made some winter warmer bandanas yesterday-a cozy fleece version of the dribble bandana. It's great for little ones to wear under or over their jackets in place of a scarf. I always loved (and still do) scarves on kids but I am always fearful of them getting caught on something. They run a risk of strangulation and that I dont like. So the Winter Warmer Bandana is a great alternative. Unfortunately I havent found a 'boy' fabric that I like yet so I only have a girls version. It is 100% polyester fleece and will fit 0-5 year olds.

I also am working on some other seasonal products. I hope to have them up in the next week or so but my kids are hounding me to finish their Halloween costumes so I will be doing those first.

The Blog World

2008-10-11T21:23:00.000-07:00

I will admit I am relatively new to this whole blog world. I know friends who have had them for years but I never followed anyone till recently. I thought it was a bunch of garble and not worth reading.

Then I actually started reading some blogs this past year. And I was amazed at how much I learned about the people that surround me on a regular basis. I could see someone every week and talk on the phone with them for hours a day and still learn new stuff via their blog. It was then that I realized that its sort of like looking into someone's diary. Personal thoughts that you can't/might not say but can write.

So I joined the blog world. I must admit I have not been all that committed as of yet. Yes, I have the excuse of three kids but so do a lot of other people. I started a personal blog and then a business blog trying to keep both separate. Then I realized a business blog without a personal side is, well, boring. Who wants to just see my products and nothing else? A big part of small business today is buying the business owner. Why would someone want to buy a $7 bib when they can go to Walmart and get 10 for $8??? Well hopefully the quality is one aspect and the originality another, but I know that people buy things from those they like/ feel a similarity to. you can't feel a closeness to someone that doesnt show you any of their personal side.

So I am going to try and do both here. I started my company because I wanted to make products that both parents and babies will love. I wanted to have items that you cant find at the big stores and I wanted to have items that made others ask you where you found it. I hope to always be improving my products and to always find ways to make parenting more stylish and more functional. I am that person that loves a challenge and if you tell me you want an item that is waterproof, folds up, is machine washable and tolerates your child's torment-I will try to make it!

I hope to write something of interest to others and hope that you keep on reading.

No Peek-a-Boobies

2008-10-09T21:07:00.000-07:00

Nursing Covers
$28

Made of a lightweight fabric that keeps yourself and little one cool when its nursing time. There is plenty of coverage and the neckline has a sit-away feature that allows you to view baby while they are feeding. Neck strap is adjustable and secures with double d-rings.

Small pocket on the front is handy for soothers, breast pads, keys etc.

My Thumb is Numb

2008-10-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

Okay so I've learned one thing form my latest project-your thumb gets pretty sore after pressing on metal for hours.

Anyways, here are some pictures of the hair clips that I've been making. They are all on a double prong clip that will hold the tiniest piece of hair. They hold on in my daughter's hair (not much of it) but do look a little bit big on her head still.

They are sold as either singles or doubles starting at $1.50 ea up to $5.00 set.

Bibs and Burp Cloths

2008-09-27T19:16:00.001-07:00

BIBS -$7EA

Tired of bibs that you little one can pull off by themselves? Try one of our bibs that secure with a snap in the back. Most designs are reversible and made of two co-ordinating fabrics.

Made of 100% cotton and they are washable.

BURP CLOTHS-$6EA OR 2 FOR $10
A perfect peanut shape that fits perfectly over your shoulder to catch any messes that your little one makes. Small enough to tuck into diaper bag or purse. Most designs are reversible and made of two co-ordinating fabrics.

Made of 100% cotton and they are washable.

PERFECT NEW BABY GIFT-$20

Includes two burp cloths, one bib and one dribble bandana of co-ordinating fabrics. All wrapped up and ready to give as a gift.

Dribble Bandana Bibs

2008-09-27T18:21:00.000-07:00

A creative and unique alternative to the traditional bib! Keep your little one dry while being stylish at the same time. The Great Bandana Bib!

They are perfect for when your little one is drooling, spitting-up or just eating. The bandanas absorb the moisture and keep outfits dry. Keep several dribble bandanas close by so you can just change the bandana and not your cute outfits. These are not only a practical item but very fashionable as well. Co-ordinate them to all your outfits for an added sense of style!

The dribble bandanas are made of 100% cotton with an absorbent white or black flannel back (also 100% cotton). They secure together in the back with a metal snap not with noisy, scratchy Velcro. They are made to fit newborn to three year olds and the one size fits all will work with most petite as well as heavier babies.

Machine washable.

retail for $7ea

PARENTAL SUPERVISION ADVISED. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE A CHILD UNATTENDED WITH ANYTHING AROUND THEIR NECK.

Pacifier Clips

2008-08-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

PACIFIER CLIPS

Need a stylish way to keep that pacifier from being dropped or lost? This pacifier clip is the answer! Two styles available making it fit most pacifiers on the market!

This pacifier clip is made of high quality ribbon and finished beautifully. One end has a plastic clip that opens by pulling up on the tab and closes by pushing down on the tab. Use the clip end to attach to clothing (or with soothies type pacifier a clip is used on both clothing and pacifier). The other end holds the pacifier with a mini snap closure. The length of the ribbon (snapped) is approx 8 inches long and is perfect for newborn to toddler.

Pacifier clips can also be used to attach your little one's favorite toys and teething rings. They make a perfect baby shower gift!!

Note of Safety :As with any baby toy please use only under adult supervision. Never leave a baby unattended with a pacifier clip. Buyer assumes responsibility.

Standard Pacifier Clip is $4.50 and Soothie/Rubber Tree Pacifier Clip is $5.50

styles available

LITTLE LEGGINGS

2008-08-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

LITTLE LEGGINGS

This is a great little item to add to your child's wardrobe.

*a cute alternative to tights or socks
*easy to put on and take off
*protect knees when crawling
*great for potty training
*fills the gap between socks and pants that ride up

*machine washable
*available in four sizes:
mini-fits approx 0-6 months $8ea
baby-fits approx 6 months-2 years $8ea
toddler-fits approx 2 years-5 years $10ea
big kid-fits approx 4 years-9 years $10ea

a sample of the designs available. email for current designs and sizes available

The Happy Strap

2008-06-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

HAPPY STRAP
$12 ea

The solution to your child throwing everything on the ground. Snugly attach strap to bottle/cup/toy by using velcro end. Secure other end of strap to highchair/stroller/shopping cart. No more picking up items off the ground-the strap keeps them close.

Simple design made to fit around any bottle/cup that measures up to 8" around. Also works well with toys. "Leash" end can either be looped around itself or used with a toy ring to attach to stroller or highchair. Velcro and ring keep loop snug around item. Backed with embossed suede to prevent item from slipping inside ring. Folds up small and easy to keep in diaper bag/purse/car etc.

Designed fabric is 100% cotton. Backing is 100% embossed suede that provides a grip on bottles and cups. Strap is machine washable but would suggest wiping with hot soapy water for clean up and hanging to dry.

Available in several stylish patterns. Can be custom made to fit wider bottles/cups.
The picture below shows all the current fabrics available for this product but keep checking as I am always buying new fabrics.

*DO NOT LEAVE CHILD ALONE WITH PRODUCT. PARENTAL SUPERVISION REQUIRED. PARENT TAKES FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY OF CHILD WHEN WEARING PRODUCT.