All Tote Troved Out!

Here I'm modeling an array of my handmade items. You've already seen the tote, which I now carry everywhere (so handy for stashing my paperbacks, which I'm never without), but the necklace, bracelet, and hand-painted jean skirt are new to you. I made the bracelet with none other than a honkin' Faux Show rhinestone cluster as well as some more sedate but equally fun faux pearls. I think the necklace is my favorite, though; the charms are so fun and graphic. They're part of a new line A.C. Moore is carrying. I'm looking forward to buying a bunch more to make a matching chunky bracelet. I painted the skirt to wear for my first craft show, Mayfest, last spring. Dressing for a trip to the movies, I decided to mix it all with this gold and black houndstooth tank for a fun, slightly mismatched look.

Tales from the Trove - Smithville Mayfest and Medford Handmade Faire

I've been busy this spring and summer, dipping my toe into the wild world of craft shows. It was more work than I ever imagined, and I couldn't have done it without the help (not to mention the upper arm strength!) of my boyfriend. But it was worth it, and so much fun! It's interesting to get instant feedback, good or bad, from shoppers, especially when you're used to waiting for it on the Web. (I don't know about you, but I've definitely been guilty of stalking my own sites, plaguing myself with questions like, "How many Etsy hearts should I have by now?" and "How much tweeting is too much?") The most rewarding craft show feedback is when someone exclaims, "That is the most perfect bag/necklace/bracelet/skirt purse for my daughter/granddaughter/niece/sister!" The most stressful is probably when kids ask, "Mom, can I have it? Can I have it? Can I have it?" as you sink lower in your chair and try to avert your eyes. (I mean no disrespect to craft fair-going children or their parents, as they are some of my best customers! This experience is simply part of the adventure.) That having been said, here are some shots of The Tote Trove tent at Mayfest (5/16-5/17, Smithville) and the Handemade Faire (July 17, Medford). I especially enjoyed the Handemade Faire. It was a great venue, and I had the chance to meet other NJ Etsians.