I thought I would share a little bit of what happens when you purchase one of my handmade or destash supply items. Where does your money go? I love companies that offer full disclosure about their profits/margins and business practices, so I thought I'd do the same.
Of any given purchase from one of my shops, be it on Etsy, Artfire, Cafepress or Zazzle, these are the things you help fund:
**First and foremost, my number one goal is to never have to dip into personal "family" funds for supplies. So all supplies I need to further create handmade are purchased with profit.
**A large chunk goes to business fees such as: venue fees, taxes, printing materials, business marketing materials, paying for my CPA, shipping supplies, etc. The 'bones' of running a business, shall we say.
After those expenses are taken care of (which are a HUGE chunk of my profit.) We get on to the 'real' stuff.
Your purchase of my handmade items can at any given time pay for one, some, or all of these things:
*Healthy food for my children and family. Organic and gluten free ain't cheap.
*Vet bills and pet care! My husband insisted I pay for the dog out of "my" money since she was my idea. I gladly do so, just sharing.
*Fun stuff for me off the very venues I sell on. I believe in putting it back! I purchase a good bit of supplies, vintage and handmade items off Etsy and Artfire, just as I sell there! My latest focus has been on vintage items to redecorate our home!
*Presents for my husband for special days and events. It's just not fun to buy his anniversary present out of OUR money....it's however incredibly fulfilling to be able to buy his special gifts with money I earned of my own accord. (and chances are, those items are bought OFF handmade venues, like the hand stamped guitar picks he got for our anniversary!)
*Special trips and events that aren't in our family budget...like day trips with the kids, concerts, etc. Right now the majority of my profit intended for supplies is being saved for a high dollar supply item I want/need. The other % for "me" is going towards a family car. I realize it will be years probably before I can save up a valid amount, but we hope to make my '96 last a few more years. (A good reason to marry a mechanic, ladies...he'll keep your car running!)
I'm sure there are other little things I'm not thinking about, and that handmade artisans and small business owners all over have similar lists. I just wanted to show you, when you buy local or handmade, you are buying from an actual person...not a huge conglomerate who makes millions. We shop owners are real people, with real families, trying to run a legit business. We are not in pyramid schemes, we are not selling Amway, we are not even trying to hawk mass manufactured items at home parties (not that that is a bad way to make a living.) But we are real, flesh and blood humans who in the case of handmade items, are actually physically making the items you purchase with our own two hands. We are creating, putting together, sewing, painting, stitching, sanding, cutting, designing, weaving, shooting, hammering, drawing, items just for you. We sniff strong glue for you! :)
So, next time you need to make a purchase, be it for fun or work, consider handmade. Consider the source. I believe in a life that is based on the minimalist principles. Living simply is not about not having things, but rather, enjoying, cherishing and RESPECTING the material possessions you do spend your hard earned money on.
Thanks for listening and thank YOU for reading my blog, looking at my items, watching me grow, trying my tutorials, and purchasing my items....it really, truly, does help me every day and mean a lot to me.
~~Thank you!!!
~~Amy
The Hesitant Homeschooler....Mama's Little Monkeys
Showing posts with label artisans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label artisans. Show all posts
Friday, July 1, 2011
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Oops, been awhile..
So I fell off the blogging wagon again... Ok so it's only been 8 days but that's a long time in blog world! :) Life has been a tad busy the past week or so.
For starters, my youngest son Eli, was diagnosed with autism. Mild, but still. I was not surprised,but now I must refocus my life and work on helping him overcome this. While this is not a post to debate the ins and outs of autism, I personally do believe autism is a neurological autoimmune disease greatly affected by several factors including, genetics, vaccinations, toxins, environment and pure blind luck. I also firmly believe in the power of healing and God, and trust that I will work my tookus off to save my baby. In the one week on the gluten free diet, he's already uttered mama, which is a word I've not heard in months.
We are also going out of town for a bit in October so I need to prepare for that, and also get ready for some possible craft shows in the coming months.
My life is always mommy first, handmade artisan second, but I'll do my best to keep up!
~~amy
For starters, my youngest son Eli, was diagnosed with autism. Mild, but still. I was not surprised,but now I must refocus my life and work on helping him overcome this. While this is not a post to debate the ins and outs of autism, I personally do believe autism is a neurological autoimmune disease greatly affected by several factors including, genetics, vaccinations, toxins, environment and pure blind luck. I also firmly believe in the power of healing and God, and trust that I will work my tookus off to save my baby. In the one week on the gluten free diet, he's already uttered mama, which is a word I've not heard in months.
We are also going out of town for a bit in October so I need to prepare for that, and also get ready for some possible craft shows in the coming months.
My life is always mommy first, handmade artisan second, but I'll do my best to keep up!
~~amy
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Why Do You Create?
It's such a broad question..why do you create? No matter what you create, music, art, crafts, writing, etc....WHY do you do it? Does it bring you peace? Does it bring you joy? For monetary gains? Sometimes it is a matter of a combination of all these things and more. For myself it is a combo of them all. I need the extra money with astronomical prices of things and our rising cost of health insurance. But I also enjoy the challenge of learning new things, putting my spin on a pattern or tutorial, and trying new tasks. I enjoy the mediums I work with, collecting the supplies and the accomplishment of a finished product.
But what if you make something everyone else can make? How do you not just feel like a copycat of everyone else?
By making the items YOURS and putting YOUR spin on things. Sure, a bib is a bib. Chances are they will look relatively the same. But you can change it up a little. Use a snap instead of Velcro for a closure. Use funky fabrics. Make it waterproof. Make it a pocket bib. Add a musical button. There are likely a multitude of different variations you can put on an item to make it unique.
And maybe it won't be THAT unique. Maybe someone else makes the EXACT same thing. But unless you are directly stealing a copyrighted, trademarked, patented product, DO NOT SWEAT IT. There are plenty of buyers for handmade artisan work and you should focus on doing what YOU like to do.
Experiment, try new things, branch out of your comfort zone. You may crash and burn and fail horribly. Or you may discover a new genre you never knew you liked. You may develop haters who don't like you making something similar to what they make. Or you may develop a new customer base who appreciates you branching out and finding new items to purchase. You may make friends, you may make enemies. Let it all roll off your back!
Creating handmade work is about YOU and your individuality. It's about your creative outlet, however that may be. If all you want to do is recreate a pattern, do so! (Tweak it ever so slightly or you are indeed creating copyright infringement, at least in the case of commercially sold sewing patterns.)
If it doesn't bring a smile to your face...why are you doing it?
~~Amy
**Photographs Courtesy of: CreativeDC on Flickr
But what if you make something everyone else can make? How do you not just feel like a copycat of everyone else?
By making the items YOURS and putting YOUR spin on things. Sure, a bib is a bib. Chances are they will look relatively the same. But you can change it up a little. Use a snap instead of Velcro for a closure. Use funky fabrics. Make it waterproof. Make it a pocket bib. Add a musical button. There are likely a multitude of different variations you can put on an item to make it unique.
And maybe it won't be THAT unique. Maybe someone else makes the EXACT same thing. But unless you are directly stealing a copyrighted, trademarked, patented product, DO NOT SWEAT IT. There are plenty of buyers for handmade artisan work and you should focus on doing what YOU like to do.
Experiment, try new things, branch out of your comfort zone. You may crash and burn and fail horribly. Or you may discover a new genre you never knew you liked. You may develop haters who don't like you making something similar to what they make. Or you may develop a new customer base who appreciates you branching out and finding new items to purchase. You may make friends, you may make enemies. Let it all roll off your back!
Creating handmade work is about YOU and your individuality. It's about your creative outlet, however that may be. If all you want to do is recreate a pattern, do so! (Tweak it ever so slightly or you are indeed creating copyright infringement, at least in the case of commercially sold sewing patterns.)
If it doesn't bring a smile to your face...why are you doing it?
~~Amy
**Photographs Courtesy of: CreativeDC on Flickr
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Here's to a Relaxing Summer!
Hello all! I just wanted to say thanks to anyone who takes the time to read my blog! I appreciate your time spent, friendship and attention! **Strokes own feathers...**
My son is almost out of preschool for the summer so I may be less active online for a few months. As usual I have several projects...usual stalking for Blockhead Radio, my new intern position with Chris Huff and of course the shops! I will not be renewing much on the MLM Etsy Shop, but will keep renewing Fleur De Ink and have my new soap shop open, Amelia Amos Soaps! That one is more for me to refer people to for wholesale inquiries so it doesn't take much attention! New items will be mostly listed on my Artfire shop because I am really digging how AF works!
I also am staying busy with Handmade Louisiana my non profit group for artisans and musicians in and around Louisiana. It gives me an excuse to go to local concerts (Benjy Davis Project in June..Can't WAIT!) You really must check out our little blog at the link above and please give some love to Merry of Cheeseandchocolate because she works her tookus off on the group!
Throw into that mix my local wholesale sale! You can now find some of my items at the Education Station in Slidell, LA!! Right now you can get my chalk mats, crayons, and crayon rolls. Around late July you'll be able to get my nap mat covers (which will require me to start sewing them mid June, actually.) I have a TON of adorable prints and styles to choose from! If you aren't in this area, no worries, I'll have them in my Artfire shop as well!
And of course, there is the other new project I've undertaken...making sock monkeys. First I want say, I both curse and love two shops for feeding my monkey obsession and encouraging me! Elegant Hobbies and HoffeeandaNuffin are two awesome shops for sock monkeys and they were very kind in encouraging me to go ahead and try them! (They like to tease me with their new monkeys too.....naughty naughty monkey makers!) They are right, they are SOOOOOOO darn fun. I have a sewing to-do list a mile long including a stack of mama cloth that is cut out for my testers from Diaperswappers, but the monkeys have distracted me! :) I made Harrison one he promptly named Gecko (could have been the huge button eyes) and I just finished a baby monkey for my lovely pregnant neice. I'll put up the pics ASAP! :) I keep organizing fabric and 'need to sew' piles but they keep growing! Throw in the soap obsession and Im in trouble. Countdown is on til Eli can share a room with Harrison and I can have a whole room for sewing/soaping...drooooool....
So I love you guys and if I am not around as much, it is because I'm spending time with the monkeys I TRULY loves best, my boys, and am working on things behind the scenes! I hope everyone has a fantastic summer, and gets their creative mojo out and moving!! :)
~~Amy
My son is almost out of preschool for the summer so I may be less active online for a few months. As usual I have several projects...usual stalking for Blockhead Radio, my new intern position with Chris Huff and of course the shops! I will not be renewing much on the MLM Etsy Shop, but will keep renewing Fleur De Ink and have my new soap shop open, Amelia Amos Soaps! That one is more for me to refer people to for wholesale inquiries so it doesn't take much attention! New items will be mostly listed on my Artfire shop because I am really digging how AF works!
I also am staying busy with Handmade Louisiana my non profit group for artisans and musicians in and around Louisiana. It gives me an excuse to go to local concerts (Benjy Davis Project in June..Can't WAIT!) You really must check out our little blog at the link above and please give some love to Merry of Cheeseandchocolate because she works her tookus off on the group!
Throw into that mix my local wholesale sale! You can now find some of my items at the Education Station in Slidell, LA!! Right now you can get my chalk mats, crayons, and crayon rolls. Around late July you'll be able to get my nap mat covers (which will require me to start sewing them mid June, actually.) I have a TON of adorable prints and styles to choose from! If you aren't in this area, no worries, I'll have them in my Artfire shop as well!
And of course, there is the other new project I've undertaken...making sock monkeys. First I want say, I both curse and love two shops for feeding my monkey obsession and encouraging me! Elegant Hobbies and HoffeeandaNuffin are two awesome shops for sock monkeys and they were very kind in encouraging me to go ahead and try them! (They like to tease me with their new monkeys too.....naughty naughty monkey makers!) They are right, they are SOOOOOOO darn fun. I have a sewing to-do list a mile long including a stack of mama cloth that is cut out for my testers from Diaperswappers, but the monkeys have distracted me! :) I made Harrison one he promptly named Gecko (could have been the huge button eyes) and I just finished a baby monkey for my lovely pregnant neice. I'll put up the pics ASAP! :) I keep organizing fabric and 'need to sew' piles but they keep growing! Throw in the soap obsession and Im in trouble. Countdown is on til Eli can share a room with Harrison and I can have a whole room for sewing/soaping...drooooool....
So I love you guys and if I am not around as much, it is because I'm spending time with the monkeys I TRULY loves best, my boys, and am working on things behind the scenes! I hope everyone has a fantastic summer, and gets their creative mojo out and moving!! :)
~~Amy
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Survived first live show, now back to work!
Man, life after craft show is hard! Trying to reorganize, inventory, photograph, clean, etc etc! :)
Thanks to those who tuned in last night, you can tune in again every Wednesday night at 9 pm eastern to hear me and my awesome friend Rockerchic on "Mom's Cafe" We'll carry on with our mommyness, awesomeness, and artisan info! :)
So don't miss it! :)
www.blockheadradiolive.com
Thanks to those who tuned in last night, you can tune in again every Wednesday night at 9 pm eastern to hear me and my awesome friend Rockerchic on "Mom's Cafe" We'll carry on with our mommyness, awesomeness, and artisan info! :)
So don't miss it! :)
www.blockheadradiolive.com
Monday, March 23, 2009
I'm going to be live on the air....
I think I just wet my pants a little....
Me. Live on the air.
I do recall distinctly telling the lovely Rod/Huck/Witchy/harem of women, that I would NOT be on the air anymore than a time or two to call in.....
and yet.....
here we are two days from ME GOING LIVE ON THE FREAKING AIR!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA (that was the Home Alone scream...)
So, I bought my nifty little headset from the Evil Empire today....warned my husband that our Lost date nites would be over for awhile (oh, don't worry SewHappy, I'm taping it so we can still talk trash..) and that I would be barracading myself in my room for at least one hour and to not disturb me.
So the more I think about this, this is not such a bad idea....
1. One solid hour of no monkeys invading my space (in theory)
2. Sitting on my butt cozy in my bed...
3. Talking and knowing (some) people are actually enjoying it?
4. Getting to talk to my awesome friend Rockerchic about our lives as mom artisans..
5. A promise of appletini's each week...
(what appletini's are not in the contract?...ahem, Rod, we really must speak soon...)
Okay, so I'm getting excited!!!
WHAT praytell shall Rocker and I discuss for ONE HOUR each week?
Well....that is our little secret (I'm waiting for her to tell me...KIDDING.) but the overall general idea is being a mom/artisan...how does it work, managing it, creativity, balance, etc. Our little show is called "Mom's Cafe", or as it is affectionately referred to around BHR...."Two morons with a show at NIGHT" (because the Morning Brew Ha Ha is the official Two Morons with a Show)
I can promise you there will be LOLcats to be had.
SOOOO come check us out on WEDNESDAY nights at 9pm EASTERN for Mom's Cafe!! The possum will be going live on the air.....(insert ominous music here...)
~~amy
Me. Live on the air.
I do recall distinctly telling the lovely Rod/Huck/Witchy/harem of women, that I would NOT be on the air anymore than a time or two to call in.....
and yet.....
here we are two days from ME GOING LIVE ON THE FREAKING AIR!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA (that was the Home Alone scream...)
So, I bought my nifty little headset from the Evil Empire today....warned my husband that our Lost date nites would be over for awhile (oh, don't worry SewHappy, I'm taping it so we can still talk trash..) and that I would be barracading myself in my room for at least one hour and to not disturb me.
So the more I think about this, this is not such a bad idea....
1. One solid hour of no monkeys invading my space (in theory)
2. Sitting on my butt cozy in my bed...
3. Talking and knowing (some) people are actually enjoying it?
4. Getting to talk to my awesome friend Rockerchic about our lives as mom artisans..
5. A promise of appletini's each week...
(what appletini's are not in the contract?...ahem, Rod, we really must speak soon...)
Okay, so I'm getting excited!!!
WHAT praytell shall Rocker and I discuss for ONE HOUR each week?
Well....that is our little secret (I'm waiting for her to tell me...KIDDING.) but the overall general idea is being a mom/artisan...how does it work, managing it, creativity, balance, etc. Our little show is called "Mom's Cafe", or as it is affectionately referred to around BHR...."Two morons with a show at NIGHT" (because the Morning Brew Ha Ha is the official Two Morons with a Show)
I can promise you there will be LOLcats to be had.
SOOOO come check us out on WEDNESDAY nights at 9pm EASTERN for Mom's Cafe!! The possum will be going live on the air.....(insert ominous music here...)
~~amy
I'm Baaaaaaaaaaaaaack!!
PHEW!! The craft show is OVER!! Thanks to those who came and supported me!! I appreciate it! Despite these tight times, I did enough business to at least break even and it was great practice in working with customers, setting up, etc. I am CONSIDERING doing another show in May in Mississippi but I have to get more info on it because it is a HUGE show.
SOOOO, the shops are BACK open and will be having more new stuff added as I can get to it! :) Right now it is back to work at Blockhead Radio and back to work as a mommy and wife! My house has been greatly neglected due to my prep for the craft show and I need to get back in my mommy groove! :)
Now what I WOULD like you to do is to check out the BHR ARTISAN CHALLENGE! Simply CLICK HERE and then click each category and GO VOTE! I am featured in a few categories, so of course I'd appreciate some votes! :)
And don't forget to ENTER the artisan challenge yourself!!
I have not forgotten the secret giveaway on my blog!! You'll be hearing from me soon if you entered! :)
Have a great day everyone!!!
~~Amy
SOOOO, the shops are BACK open and will be having more new stuff added as I can get to it! :) Right now it is back to work at Blockhead Radio and back to work as a mommy and wife! My house has been greatly neglected due to my prep for the craft show and I need to get back in my mommy groove! :)
Now what I WOULD like you to do is to check out the BHR ARTISAN CHALLENGE! Simply CLICK HERE and then click each category and GO VOTE! I am featured in a few categories, so of course I'd appreciate some votes! :)
And don't forget to ENTER the artisan challenge yourself!!
I have not forgotten the secret giveaway on my blog!! You'll be hearing from me soon if you entered! :)
Have a great day everyone!!!
~~Amy
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Ready for another giveaway!??? Get in here and WIN!
Here is our latest giveaway!!
$25.00 gift certificate from Blue Wings AND a free soap from Purities!!
This is a fantastic giveaway! Winning is EASY PEASEY!
Just visit EITHER shop, and come back here, leave a comment on THIS blog post with the URL of the item you like and why! You have one week to complete this task, should you choose to accept it... (and why wouldn't you?)
REMEMBER to leave a contact email for you in your comment so I can find you to let you know you've won!!!
When the week is over, I'll use my super scientific number generator (my husband) and pick a winner! No, no matter how much chocolate you bribe me with, I let him pick the random number! :)
So get on over to her shops and pick your fave!
Blog about this giveaway and get an extra entry! (Must provide blog POST URL in your comment!)
Blog about the Blockhead Radio Tutu Challenge found HERE, and get an extra entry! (Must provide blog POST URL in your comment.)
Here's a sampling of the great goodies you could win!
Happy Browsing!!!
Find her Blog at bluewingsshop.blogspot.com
$25.00 gift certificate from Blue Wings AND a free soap from Purities!!
This is a fantastic giveaway! Winning is EASY PEASEY!
Just visit EITHER shop, and come back here, leave a comment on THIS blog post with the URL of the item you like and why! You have one week to complete this task, should you choose to accept it... (and why wouldn't you?)
REMEMBER to leave a contact email for you in your comment so I can find you to let you know you've won!!!
When the week is over, I'll use my super scientific number generator (my husband) and pick a winner! No, no matter how much chocolate you bribe me with, I let him pick the random number! :)
So get on over to her shops and pick your fave!
Blog about this giveaway and get an extra entry! (Must provide blog POST URL in your comment!)
Blog about the Blockhead Radio Tutu Challenge found HERE, and get an extra entry! (Must provide blog POST URL in your comment.)
Here's a sampling of the great goodies you could win!
Happy Browsing!!!
Find her Blog at bluewingsshop.blogspot.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Online Party and Giveaway!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Easy to Understand CPSIA
Thank you Matt, from Etsy for this great article on how to better know what to do for your business.
http://www.etsy.com/storque/craftivism/cpsia-its-february-10th-so-now-what-3413/
http://www.etsy.com/storque/craftivism/cpsia-its-february-10th-so-now-what-3413/
Saturday, January 31, 2009
The Witching Hours 5-7pm Eastern on Saturday
What are The Witching Hours?
"The Witching Hours" where A Good Witch Too will be the hostess with the mostest plugging shops with "Wicked Good Sales"! Yes, Saturday Night Specials is going live on the air. Call in with your specials and join us in chat to share your links. Don't forget about the Treasure Hunt!!!!
TONIGHT'S FEATURED SHOPS!
www.mamaslittlemonkeys.com
www.fleurdeink.com
www.robynsart.etsy.com
www.cbessentials.etsy.com
www.mercyming.etsy.com
www.marin.etsy.com
http://www.ikowdesigns.com
Http://lillyqueen.etsy.com
GIVEAWAYS!
http://bella1104.blogspot.com/
Find about 18 different giveaways! Hurry… Ends Tomorrow Night!
So come join us tonight, www.blockheadradiolive.com
"The Witching Hours" where A Good Witch Too will be the hostess with the mostest plugging shops with "Wicked Good Sales"! Yes, Saturday Night Specials is going live on the air. Call in with your specials and join us in chat to share your links. Don't forget about the Treasure Hunt!!!!
TONIGHT'S FEATURED SHOPS!
www.mamaslittlemonkeys.com
www.fleurdeink.com
www.robynsart.etsy.com
www.cbessentials.etsy.com
www.mercyming.etsy.com
www.marin.etsy.com
http://www.ikowdesigns.com
Http://lillyqueen.etsy.com
GIVEAWAYS!
http://bella1104.blogspot.com/
Find about 18 different giveaways! Hurry… Ends Tomorrow Night!
So come join us tonight, www.blockheadradiolive.com
Don't Give Up the Fight!
While this news about the stay on the enacting of the CPSIA is wonderful news, it does not mean our battle is over!
We still have the 30 day comment period, so inactuality after Feb 10 the law remains the same, until the 30 day comment period is over (around March).
My point is this: While this is slaptastically happy dance news, our fight is not over! We need to keep putting pressure on lawmakers and keep getting our voices out there! This year will pass very quickly and we could find ourselves in this exact position in a year.
DO NOT GIVE UP THE FIGHT! Continue to write letters, just changing them to incorporate your thanks for the stay, and continued proof that handmade is and has been safe.
Keep on going guys!
Mama
Friday, January 30, 2009
Breaking CPSIA News, Via www.etsy.com
We are so excited to announce that the Commission has voted for a "Stay of Enforcement of Certain Testing and Certification Requirements of CPSIA" — which means that the burden of lead testing and certification has been suspended for a year while they take more time to review the rules and plan enforcement! All of your hard work has paid off (for the time being at least!). You don't have to pay to do the certification and testing, though you are still liable if your products are found to have lead. We are so pleased that artisans and vintage sellers got their voices heard. Your hard work is not over; we must continue to play a role in advocating for small business people throughout the coming year.
"The action taken today provides breathing space to get in place some of the rules needed for implementation, but it should not be viewed as a full solution to the many problems that have been raised." —U.S. Consumer product Safety Commission
You'll find the press release below:
CPSC Grants One Year Stay of Testing and Certification Requirements for Certain Products
Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission voted unanimously (2-0) to issue a one year stay of enforcement for certain testing and certification requirements for manufacturers and importers of regulated products, including products intended for children 12 years old and younger. These requirements are part of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), which added certification and testing requirements for all products subject to CPSC standards or bans.
Significant to makers of children’s products, the vote by the Commission provides limited relief from the testing and certification requirements which go into effect on February 10, 2009 for new total lead content limits (600 ppm), phthalates limits for certain products (1000 ppm), and mandatory toy standards, among other things. Manufacturers and importers – large and small – of children’s products will not need to test or certify to these new requirements, but will need to meet the lead and phthalates limits, mandatory toy standards and other requirements.
The decision by the Commission gives the staff more time to finalize four proposed rules which could relieve certain materials and products from lead testing and to issue more guidance on when testing is required and how it is to be conducted.
The stay will remain in effect until February 10, 2010, at which time a Commission vote will be taken to terminate the stay.
The stay does not apply to:
-
Four requirements for third-party testing and certification of certain children’s products subject to:
-
The ban on lead in paint and other surface coatings effective for products made after December 21, 2008;
-
The standards for full-size and non full-size cribs and pacifiers effective for products made after January 20, 2009;
-
The ban on small parts effective for products made after February 15, 2009; and
-
The limits on lead content of metal components of children’s jewelry effective for products made after March 23, 2009.
-
-
Certification requirements applicable to ATV’s manufactured after April 13, 2009.
-
Pre-CPSIA testing and certification requirements, including for: automatic residential garage door openers, bike helmets, candles with metal core wicks, lawnmowers, lighters, mattresses, and swimming pool slides; and
-
Pool drain cover requirements of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act.
The stay of enforcement provides some temporary, limited relief to the crafters, children’s garment manufacturers and toy makers who had been subject to the testing and certification required under the CPSIA. These businesses will not need to issue certificates based on testing of their products until additional decisions are issued by the Commission. However, all businesses, including, but not limited to, handmade toy and apparel makers, crafters and home-based small businesses, must still be sure that their products conform to all safety standards and similar requirements, including the lead and phthalates provisions of the CPSIA.
Handmade garment makers are cautioned to know whether the zippers, buttons and other fasteners they are using contain lead. Likewise, handmade toy manufacturers need to know whether their products, if using plastic or soft flexible vinyl, contain phthalates.
The stay of enforcement on testing and certification does not address thrift and second hand stores and small retailers because they are not required to test and certify products under the CPSIA. The products they sell, including those in inventory on February 10, 2009, must not contain more than 600 ppm lead in any accessible part. The Commission is aware that it is difficult to know whether a product meets the lead standard without testing and has issued guidance for these companies that can be found on our Web site.
The Commission trusts that State Attorneys General will respect the Commission's judgment that it is necessary to stay certain testing and certification requirements and will focus their own enforcement efforts on other provisions of the law, e.g. the sale of recalled products.
Please visit the CPSC Web site at www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html for more information on all of the efforts being made to successfully implement the CPSIA.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
CPSIA Blog-In
As parents and concerned citizens I'm sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.
Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.
The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.
How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:
To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.
To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That's okay though, there's always television. Our children don't need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322
To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won't be available next winter.
To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.
To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.
To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.
To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. "Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe." http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html
To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn't been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.
To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.
If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html
And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.
www.cpsia-central.ning.com
www.handmadetoyalliance.org
www.nationalbankruptcyday.com
Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.
The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.
How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:
To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.
To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That's okay though, there's always television. Our children don't need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322
To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won't be available next winter.
To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.
To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.
To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.
To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. "Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe." http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html
To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn't been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.
To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.
If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html
And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.
www.cpsia-central.ning.com
www.handmadetoyalliance.org
www.nationalbankruptcyday.com
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Awesome Blog Award
Well, I figured everyone else is doing it...WHY NOT!
SOOOO, I have awarded some of my favorite blogs with this oh so holy of awards!! If you are not on the list, never fear, I still love you!
Now..go spread the awesomeness around!! Copy and paste below the line, change the links to YOUR fave blogs and SHARE!
-----------------------------
You have been bestowed this great and awesomenest of honors. Do not take it lightly! Carry on the awesomeness and share this award with other blogs that you think are SPECTACULAR!
The Awesome List:
http://catzinthehouse.blogspot.com/
http://whimisical.blogspot.com/
http://opheliamcphee.blogspot.com/
http://shineyourhineysoap.blogspot.com/ (how can you not love a blog with a booty on it's banner?)
http://turtle-turtlemommy.blogspot.com/
http://sewhappydesigns.blogspot.com/
http://huckleberryarts.blogspot.com/
http://cootiepants.blogspot.com/
http://alteredevents.blogspot.com/
http://anitasweettreatcrafts.blogspot.com/
http://roseworksjewelry.blogspot.com/
http://mydarlingbabyetsy.blogspot.com/
http://thecoppercauldron.blogspot.com/
http://layla-legs.blogspot.com/
http://eleganthobbies.blogspot.com/
http://mycozycabincreations.blogspot.com/
http://the-watermelon-tree.blogspot.com/
http://tuffassnails.blogspot.com/
http://childishthoughts-childishthoughts.blogspot.com/
http://therockerchiconetsy.blogspot.com/
http://tulipstalking.blogspot.com/
http://blockheadradio.blogspot.com (of course!)
SOOOO, I have awarded some of my favorite blogs with this oh so holy of awards!! If you are not on the list, never fear, I still love you!
Now..go spread the awesomeness around!! Copy and paste below the line, change the links to YOUR fave blogs and SHARE!
-----------------------------
You have been bestowed this great and awesomenest of honors. Do not take it lightly! Carry on the awesomeness and share this award with other blogs that you think are SPECTACULAR!
The Awesome List:
http://catzinthehouse.blogspot.com/
http://whimisical.blogspot.com/
http://opheliamcphee.blogspot.com/
http://shineyourhineysoap.blogspot.com/ (how can you not love a blog with a booty on it's banner?)
http://turtle-turtlemommy.blogspot.com/
http://sewhappydesigns.blogspot.com/
http://huckleberryarts.blogspot.com/
http://cootiepants.blogspot.com/
http://alteredevents.blogspot.com/
http://anitasweettreatcrafts.blogspot.com/
http://roseworksjewelry.blogspot.com/
http://mydarlingbabyetsy.blogspot.com/
http://thecoppercauldron.blogspot.com/
http://layla-legs.blogspot.com/
http://eleganthobbies.blogspot.com/
http://mycozycabincreations.blogspot.com/
http://the-watermelon-tree.blogspot.com/
http://tuffassnails.blogspot.com/
http://childishthoughts-childishthoughts.blogspot.com/
http://therockerchiconetsy.blogspot.com/
http://tulipstalking.blogspot.com/
http://blockheadradio.blogspot.com (of course!)
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