Etsy shop redesign
Good morning and what a great way to start a New Year here from New Jersey: the sun is out and has been melting what’s left (still a whole bunch) from the blizzard. I’m sure you’ve all heard about our Governor Christie vacationing with his family at Disney World while NJ was hit with its biggest blizzard in decades!
So I’ve been housebound and having been sick as well, I’ve willingly handed the parenting duties over to my hubby who took care of all 3 kids and walked the dog!
With all this ‘free’ time, I’ve finally gotten around to redesigning my shop. What a major undertaking. Please check it out:
New categories on the left!
Thank you all for your comments on how to improve my shop. I took it into consideration and so far, this is the result from your many feedback. I feel privileged that you will tell me what you need! I hope this helps you all find the inventory much better.
At any time, you can convo me for a custom listing. I don’t mind doing the legwork and I can combine the shipping upfront and you don’t have to wait for the refund.
Some changes to the shop:
1. New categories on the left: I’ve grouped all the 8×3 frames together, but differentiated them by the quantities. There are no sections for special finishes as they are all grouped in the 8x3s!
2. Standardized the contents in the pics. This is good for visually-oriented learners who learn more quickly by seeing than by reading or hearing. For example, all Skinny Bride(TM) frames have a distinct wording and look to their pics. (All other 8×3 frames are in Perfect Fit 6(TM) u-channels.)
Skinny Bride(TM) with EleganceLock(TM)
Skinny Bride(TM) kisslock with loops
3. Standardized the Product Titles to be more clear. I’ve shortened the titles quite a bit.
4. Noted the volume discount up front in all the bulk listings. This will help those who ask what is the volume discount for a set of X, for instance. Every frame listing also gives the volume discount in great detail.
5. Redirect back to the shop home page in each frame listing to help you get back quickly to find what you are looking for.
As always, keep your comments coming and email me any time!
15% OFF total purchase ends soon*!
*The 15% OFF total purchase of $100 off any frames is ending soon. It ends Dec. 31 midnight EST. *smooches*
Plan well: (it’s my best offering until 11/11/11 when I celebrate my next anniversary)
*Valentine’s Day: this is a big one. Great time for guys to get their gals a gift! Or get your girlfriend a gift! Great time to get your clutches listed on your Etsy shops to get a Treasury spot! Incorporate bloody reds, sparkling silvers and blush pinks in your designs so it goes with the occasion but can be used all year-round. Don’t limit it to heart motifs that, while cute, doesn’t wear well for use on other occasions.
*Spring collections: Yes, it’s time to think about that already. Take a cue from Vogue, Elle, and other fashion mags to see the color pallet. You will need to start designing, planning, and making your clutches to have them ready for sale for the spring weather. Do keep in mind that Southerners will have spring fare earlier than those up north.
*Spring arts/crafts shows: check your local arts and crafts shows listings and plan for the audience. There will be some shows in January but the show circuit will pick up in Feb. and March. You can save by registering in advance and then start making for the show.
Plan well to do well!
And be well 🙂
Best,
Winn
BIG NEWS!! Last week SALE in 2010! Shop redesign coming in 2011.
UPDATE: I mistakenly gave the 15% OFF on other finishes when I was updating my Etsy shop. For example, antique brass was listed for this sale, when it was not under the original sale. So, I’ve changed the terms to cover ALL frames, not just NICKEL-FREE frames, in order to rectify my mistake.
… So buy any frames and for purchases over $100 (frames only), you will get an additional 15% OFF the listed price. (This includes the VOLUME discounts already in the listed price.) No other discounts apply.
Thank you all for a wonderful year. All your support has been amazing and I LOVE getting your feedback and requests. Keep ’em coming.
I know many of you had been busy making your clutches in time to give and to sell for the holidays. Raise your hand if you’ve been partaking in any after-holiday shopping!
Speaking of which, Joann’s been having some amazing sales. Be sure to sign up for their emails. I love getting their mailers, too, and clipping out those “40% off any cut of fabric” coupons. Nothing beats holding, seeing, and comparing fabrics in your hand!
Coupon for 40% off if you sign up to get their email good until Jan.8! This was part of that email.
So while you enjoy the last few days of 2010, I want to wish you all a safe and wonderful last week of 2010. I have 2 announcements:
1. With the difficulty to import Gutermann glue due to the costs and time to import and Customs Regulations, I will be selling glue bundled with my frames. Since it takes me so much to import and sell them, my inventory is limited and I want to limit it the quantity that I have to handbag makers who buy it to use with my frames. (I will sell Gutermann glue in bulk quantities for others (accessories) if they buy 10 tubes+.) Other handbag makers who buy frames from other frame sellers, will have to buy their glue elsewhere. Why not limit what glue I do have to those who support my business? For this support, I will discount the price when bundled. SO …. you can buy the frames separately, but you will not be able to buy the glue separately: you will only be able to buy glue bundled in with frames. But this will be discounted so for all you who are so supportive and loyal, guess what? You get another discount when I bundle them! Look for new pricing and more on this next week.
2. Get a 15% refund (or straight away via custom listing at my Etsy shop) off any purse frames for purchases over $100.00. Contact me for a custom listing or order a la cart and I will refund you via Paypal.
Sale is good from when this post hits your email box until midnight Dec. 31, 2010!!!
Please take advantage of this sale, and please note that once the deadline has passed, it cannot be extended for any reason.
Why nickel-free?
One of the top questions that people ask me is “why nickel-free”? As the originator and creator (ie. the first to manufacturer nickel-free) of the nickel-free coating for metal purse frames, I’m proud that my work results in a fine finish to show off your clutches. You don’t have to have a nickel-free allergy to enjoy the 2-coat finish that allows fingerprints to wipe with ease.
“Is it better?”
The short answer is “Yes”. I believe that it is. That’s why I’ve spent a lot of time and research in coming up with a trademarked nickel-free finish for my purse frames.
The long answer is:
1. I have an allergy to nickel and cannot wear nickel earrings, for example. (swollen, red, itchiness that eventually develops into a lot of grossness) Yes, that’s my medical description. 🙂
2. I am sensitive to the topic of allergies, in general, because one of my sons has a severe food allergy. (Yes, hospitalizations and Epi-Pens galore!)
3. When I did research into nickel-free, I found that this allergy is a rising allergy, just like peanut allergy, gluten allergy, egg allergy, milk allergy, and soy allergy have all risen dramatically for my kids’ generation.
4. I like the sheen of .925 sterling silver but do not like the tarnish. So with my fine nickel-free metal purse frames(TM), I have achieved the white-silver look that I want without the tarnish.
Here’s a snippet from a very recent article on the rise of nickel allergy. You can read the entire article here:
The rise of nickel allergy.
My process used for my trademarked nickel-free purse frame is similar to the process used in jewelry. (Beyond having the lobster clasp closures on my chains, again, this is where my knowledge and work as a jeweler helps!) I have to use a plating company that has the nickel-free process and you will not find this in industrial uses … only jewelry. So despite what you might have heard, nickel-free is NOT cheaper. Not by a long shot. Call any plating company here in America.
Now that I have competitors selling knock-off, cheap, imitators of my nickel-free purse frames(TM), I don’t take this imitation as flattery. Are they even tested for lead?
Ask that seller, why do you offer nickel-free? How did you get the idea?
So handbag makers can list that their clutches made from my nickel-free frames(TM) are tested for lead and has a fine 2-coat finish extending the life of the clutch. It will wear well! Handbag makers should also note that it is “Trademarked to whilebabynaps.etsy.com and Khuong LLC.”
It’s up: The new shoulder length chain!
Thank you for your patience y’all. Been working on all your orders in time for you to make clutches for your customers. But the chain is just up on Etsy.
Love their new listing system where you can just ‘copy’ – don’t you?
It’ll take me til this evening to get it at my webstore so you can order now at the Etsy shop or wait. Either way, I can make a custom listing if anyone needs.
Here’s some pics. I got into the holiday spirit!
Happy holidays!!!
Here’s one with the cartoon-y thought bubble! hehe … 😉
Oh yeah? Check me out!
Since the cost is in the lobster claws themselves, the longer length is not tripled in price even though the length has. And the volume discounts are quite generous:
(1) 45.5 inch chain = regular price $4.99
Set of 5 = 30% off
Set of 10 = 35% off
Set of 20 = 40% off
Set of 25 = 43% off
Set of 50 = 50% off
As always, thanks for your support!
~Winn
Shoulder length 45.5″ chain will be listed soon … I promise
Sorry guys … I’m behind in listing the chain for sale because I’ve been filling out your orders (holiday rush) and listing sellers on my SELLERS page.
Have you checked it out? Go on, click on the SELLERS page and see! Here’s a ridiculously small screen grab of what’s up so far…
I now have over 10,000 hits on my blog. My rank on Google continues to move up and I’m capturing a lot of the search terms such as “fine clutches” and “handmade handbags”.
And the SELLERS page is now the #1 ranked page – beating the HOME page! What????
It’s the season ladies!
Thank you all for letting my referrals know where they can get clutches made from my fine metal frames! I’m getting a lot of great feedback. I know a lot of you are low on your stock, so here are some tips:
1. Go big or go home: have plenty of selection and price points for shoppers. Have a variety of items for browsing.
2. Think holiday gift-giving: ‘Tis the season, and clutches in the $34-45 range will sell better than those in the $60-70 range. That’s a good rule regardless of the time of year, but think of the shopper’s budget for Christmas gifts. Think of the intended recipients. The bridal market is slowing down right now so aim for cottons and durable fabrics that fit the wintry season.
As always, your comments are welcome. And I will get the shoulder length listed when I have an hour or two to spare… 🙂
Sellers list is up!
Please check out the SELLERS page. It’s up with several sellers listed: I’m ahead of my revised scheduled date of 12/5 ;)!
YAY you, the sellers who have submitted. I thank you, for doing the work to ensure that my referrals know which clutches are made using my fine metal purse frames. They are looking for a clutch that is made using one of the frames “trademarked to WhileBabyNaps.Etsy.com and Khuong LLC.” This lets them know they can buy with confidence that the clutch they receive is made with frames that are tested for lead and that have a special coating that will prolong the life of the clutch.
Here’s Erin rave review:
“omg! I can already tell a difference in my shop views! I thank you sooo much!!! I gotta get working on new listings!”
She’s nearly sold out, but here’s one of her remaining clutches that showcases her craftsmanship.
Elegance: Erin uses vintage kimono fabric (from Japan!) in her clutches. This one was made with my nickel-free purse frame(TM) with EleganceLock(TM).
I am waiting on several sellers on the details so check back to see more sellers listed.
Please remember that my referrals are specifically asking “where can I buy clutches made with your (nickel-free, antique brass, Duskcoat Gunmetal(TM) or GoldenLock(TM) frames?”
So I would advise that:
1. In your pic, though you may sell other clothing or accessories, to showcase a clutch or collection of clutches that is indicative of what you sell. For example, someone looking for a silk bridal clutch will not find it at a store selling only cotton clutches.
2. Have your shop description be accurate in what you sell.
AND please remember my post about “taste uncertainty” and “concentration of stores” that data has proven to show to actually increase your business by being near sellers that sell similar things to you. If you’ve forgotten (no quizzes given here 🙂 ) please read this post:
https://clutchme.wordpress.com/2010/10/31/4-things-that-can-help-your-clutch-handbag-business/
Lastly, I truly believe in helping other women learn a skill that they can develop into a business. Because I’ve been there, trying to reenter the workforce looking for a part-time job with no luck. So please be supportive of other women who are “doing it for themselves!” — to borrow a phrase from a song.
To that end, please respect each other’s unique work, style, and creative endeavors. Please read that post with the link above. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but not here. Please remember:
*Don’t compete on price.
*Offer something unique that stands out from others.
Now get to work! 🙂
Sellers to be added this week! Etsy sellers: SUBMIT yours!!
I know I’m late in adding the “Sellers” section up guys. I’ve been working every day and into the night past midnight. Those in HI and CA can vouch for me!! 🙂
I’m coding and filling the SELLERS section this week. PLEASE SUBMIT your store. (I know you are busy with holiday shows and orders, but if you want more business, get listed as a seller!)
It’s my most searched page (after the ubiquitous home page) so the interest is there in buying clutches from handbag makers who use my fine frames. I am happy to refer those inquiries directly to your shop. Everyone can be listed.
In order to become listed as a seller, this is what I need:
1. A link to the product listing of your clutch or your Etsy shop home announcement or webstore stating any of the purse frame descriptors. For complete descriptors, please read Section THREE of this post:
https://clutchme.wordpress.com/2010/10/31/4-things-that-can-help-your-clutch-handbag-business/
You can use any of the following descriptors for nickel-free purse frames (TM) but you must include the last *** item:
*The metal purse frame is made of iron with a nickel-free finish.
*It is good for people with nickel sensitivity: it’s hypoallergenic, itch and rash resistant.
*It has a 2-coat protective coating that allows fingerprints to wipe off with ease unlike those with a 1-coat finish.
*It is tested for lead and meets the US’s Environmental Protection guidelines.
*The nickel-free finish is white-silver in appearance and is best described as looking like sterling silver.
***It is trademarked to WhileBabyNaps.Etsy.com and Khuong LLC.
Why have a descriptor and trademark? To sell the benefit of your clutches since you are using the finest of frames out there that is tested for lead, etc… and to let my referees know which clutches they can buy that they know are made from my fine frames.
2. URL of the shop or blog that you want linked to.
3. Name and short description of your store or goods or target market. You can describe types of clutches (wallets, coin purses, evening clutches, everyday clutches…) or types of materials used (durable cottons, luxury silk, handprinted designs …)
4. A jpg of one of your clutches or a shop banner or logo. Please keep it under 1 MB. If you don’t know how to do this, I can do a screen grab of your store, store banner, or clutch.
Any comments and questions?? Please feel free to email me directly.
Want to see a sample?
Click on the SELLERS page at the top of the blog to see my sister’s shop as listed.
I simply did a screen grab of her store, but you are welcome to submit any jpg. you’d like showing your store, or your top selling clutch made from my frames.
Screen grab of SELLERS page.
***If you do not have an online store or presence, I am happy to accept your name and phone number or email in order to list you as well. However, I would recommend a photo of a sample of your work so that customers can get an idea of your clutches.***
December Orders and SHIPPING
My, my, my are you all as busy as me making clutches for gifts or for holiday sales?? I think the economy is coming back because the holiday orders are looking good (*knocking loudly on wood*). I’ve also heard from several of you that you have had great sales for holiday gift-giving.
Bridesmaid clutch with floral hair clip!
WAY TO GO! Pat yourselves on the back for the great planning.
On that note, please keep in mind Christmas holiday orders. You still have plenty of time to make your clutches for your customers but do not delay. A clutch in hand will get a quick sale!
So please plan well and get your supplies to make your clutches. Please note that I will be shipping 6 days a week via Priority Mail (for all orders consisting of 5 or more frames) or First Class Mail (for PDF hard copies and less than 5 frames for beginners).
So why the nudge on orders? Because Priority Mail is not guaranteed to get there in 2-3 days! Here’s the policy of USPS:
Estimated Delivery Time
o If a Priority Mail package is going to a major city, or is traveling less than 600 miles, it should arrive in two (2) days. Otherwise, it should arrive in three (3) days.
This is not a guaranteed service.
o Date of delivery is not guaranteed. Delivery by a specific date at a specific time is not available.
o Estimated delivery time begins on the date postmarked.
… And this is outside of the consideration of the higher volume from the holidays. With the holiday volume of packages, USPS is going to be slower than normal … I can guarantee that!
So if you absolutely need it by a certain date, please email me or convo me via my Etsy shop for a custom listing with Express Mail, which is guaranteed (but is also CRAZZZZZY expensive). You don’t even want to know about UPS or FedEx. Their stocks have done very well for a reason … 😉
International Customers: Please take advantage of the medium flat rate Priority Mail International box. Anything more than (5) 8×3 frames has to go in the medium box. (It’s a testament to my origami skills that I can even fit all 5 in those teeny boxes!) I can fit about (40) 8×3 frames for the same amount – $43.00 – as (10) frames, so plan your purchase and spread your cost of shipping over more frames thereby lowering your cost per clutch/unit.
New nickel-free chain in 45.5″ length
Hi y’all! We just got back from FL and survived both Disney World and Thanksgiving weekend!
Note to hubby: Hollywood Studios was not appropriate and was just wayyyyy too soon for our 6 y.o. autistic kid. 😦 Other than being completely overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, noises, people in giant costumes, and crying in fear multiple times a day … no … it really sucked for him there. Our big regret … but who knew he wasn’t going to be able to handle it?
Here’s one the best pics we were able to take of the 3. Is is a wonder that we’ve never had a family pic before? Can’t seem to get them to all look at the camera and smile at the same time!
Cowering from the camera or Darth Maul?
I’ve been working since Friday to get all your orders inspected, packaged, and ready for shipping. As of this morning, I’m caught up to all orders as of 11/23, and expect to get all the others done by 4:30, when the post offices closes for the day. Thanks for your patience and for all your orders. It seems everyone is busy planning to make clutches to sell and to give for the holidays.
Also, you’re the first to hear it: I’ve got a new chain length out today or tomorrow for sale. It’s about 45.5″ tip to tip. It’s the same nickel-free purse chain with lobster claw closures. Many of you have been doubling and tripling my clutch chain to make it shoulder length or for cross-body clutches. Now you won’t have to! Since the large cost is the lobster claws, it was really cost prohibitive to do that, so I made a longer chain.
Here’s a pic:
After I get all my orders done, I will post it up for sale at both my Etsy shop and at my webstore, whilebabynaps.com.
Thanks! And have fun shopping Cyber Monday!!
Nickel-free purse chain(TM) in longer 45.5" length
About
I am the #1 US seller of purse frames and I’ve been incorporated since 2001. This blog is mainly aimed at my audience of clutch handbag makers. I have a very small niche that is comprised of 99.9% women. I am loyal and promote handbag makers who are loyal to me by using my fine purse frames. When they are successful, then I am successful.
The two businesses that I own are:
*purse supplies, Gutermann glue, and DIY clutch kits at whilebabynaps.etsy.com, whilebabynaps.com
*up-cycled purse supplies PurseFramesOutlet.etsy.com
To find clutches made using my fine metal purse frames, LOOK to see “Trademarks of WhileBabyNaps.com and H&D LLC” and you’ll know the clutches are made using the finest metal purse frames that are tested for lead and that have a protective coating to lengthen the life of the clutch. You can go to any of the sellers on the Sellers page.
****NOTE: If you want someone to make a clutch for you, please contact any of my sellers and inquire. They will gladly make custom orders!****
Interested in reaching my audience? Advertise. Contact me here.
Thank you for stopping by for a look.
Warmly,
Thy Khuong
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My Etsy shop
#1 US Seller of Purse Frames
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Wholesale purse frames for clutches
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