Handcrafted Jewelry: Vintage Chic Victorian Edge

Postal Rate Hikes :(

2008-03-27T17:07:00.003+11:00

Australia Post has once again raised the charges for posting articles overseas! This really sucks because I don't like charging my customers for postage. But the good news for you is that I'll be absorbing these increases for now (until of course they reach a point of being absolutely ridiculous).

So! The bottom line is that shipping charges at Ackoelade are still a low US$ 1.50 within Australia and only US$ 3.50 for everywhere else!

Go go go! Get shopping :)

Get on the A-List!

2008-03-18T17:06:00.004+11:00

Hey Peeps! Ackoelade is finally starting a mailing list that will let you in on all the goss going on instore! You'll be the first to find out about new listings and best of all, be entitled to sales exclusive only to subscribers!

To sign up, simply send me an email at amanda@ackoelade.com and you'll instantly receive 10% off your next purchase instore! More details will be sent to you after signing up.

But you got to hurry because this offer is only available until 31 March 2008!

Back With A Vengence!

2008-03-13T09:40:00.010+11:00

Yep! I'm back with a vengence! :)

Apologies for being MIA, what with Xmas, New Year, (long) holidays back home etc etc, I haven't been adding anything new to the store for a while now. I have still been stocking up on new goodies though (I'm definitely addicted to shopping online!) and finally had a chance to sit down and be inspired to create with all my wonderful new purchases!

So, here's a preview of the new things in store but hurry as they are all one-of-a-kind and some have already been snapped up (yay!)

Big Deal!!!

2007-11-22T15:48:00.000+11:00

Yep! It is a BIG deal!

I am proud to announce that Ackoelade got her first "wholesale" order today! Yippee!

A very nice lady who runs a vintage store in KS, United States sent me a little message the other morning to say she was interested in buying a bulk of my jewelry for her store. Upon reading her note, I must admit I was too skeptical to jump around for joy at first. I replied with lots of enthusiasm though and after a few convos back and forth, realised that she she wasn't kidding!

This was not "just another enquiry" from "just another someone"! (yes, I have had other enquiries that just never eventuated into anything)

So there you go! I had my first "wholesale" order and I've got to get to work on these pieces! I wish I could visit this very nice lady's store as she sounds so wonderful and like so much fun. I'm sure she has a very lovely shop!

Fingers crossed there's more to come! Xmas is definitely here :)

Uh Oh....

2007-10-05T14:12:00.000+10:00

OK, I've been slack lately. Well actually, not really. I've just not had time to update my blog!

I started a new job about a month ago and since then, I've been working normal full-time hours, then going home for dinner, creating new pieces, shopping for more supplies, taking pictures of my new pieces, then posting them, advertising, etc etc etc, and at the same time trying to have a life outside of Etsy.

Which brings me to this very funny post I recently read in Storque that I can totally relate to! It was so funny I had to email it to my boyfriend immediately so he knew he wasn't alone as Family of the Addicted. It's hilarious and rings so true, and every other commited Etsian out there will know what I mean. Go on! Read it! :)

Btw, Storque is a new section in Etsy where you can read all sorts of articles on what's going on with Etsy, Spotlights on certain sellers, Showcases on some fantastic items and even How To sections! It's a fab read and you might even stumble upon something you can learn to craft (and then sell on Etsy)!

On another note, I made a very odd discovery that has hedlped improve the quality of my pictures by a gazillion times! If you'd seen my pictures before, you might notice they are all much clearer now. Before, the little thumbnails showed up all pixelated and dotty and grainy and all of the horribly yucky attributes that I simply could not understand even though they always appeared fine on my computer before uploading them. I'm now doing constant happy dances! :)

Oh! Oh! And Xmas is on the way!!!!! So come on and shop for some personalised handcrafted pressies for your friends and loved ones on Etsy before you run out of time! I swear, it's the only way to shop this Xmas!!!

Happy Birthday Merrit!

2007-09-18T12:56:00.001+10:00

This post is dedicated to Merrit who is celebrating her birthday!

There was a "Happy Birthday Contest" going on in the forums on Etsy last week. Sunday started a thread for her fellow EGA member, so people could send her wishes and a virtual present. The winner would have their item featured on the EGA (Etsy Glass Artists) website and TA-DA! I'm proud to say I won!

This is the necklace Merrit chose and that her wonderful husband ended up getting for her! Thanks Thomas!

It sold like hotcakes that I'm all sold out of it now! There is still one left with a red heart and if you're quick, you can still get it here!

These lovely Jetaime charms are so limited, I am kinda sad in a happy way that they are selling so quick!

Anyway, do visit the EGA (Etsy Glass Artists) website to read Sunday's blogpost which should be up in the next week or so. Sunday sells amazing handcrafted fused glass pendants at her Etsy store, Bead Addict Designs, you have to check them out! Merrit also does some amazing work with glass and will even do custom designs for you so go have a peek in her store, Glass and Grout, too!

Don't forget Xmas is coming so you'd better get in quick as these will make wonderful, personalised presents - start shopping early! ;)

Here birdy birdy birdy...

2007-09-12T10:00:00.001+10:00

Everyone loves birds! Well... at least I do ;)

Check out these new additions to the store featuring my cute little birdy friends!

Lots more vintage goodies added recently so come take a peek instore! ;)

Learn The Language Of Love!

2007-09-07T14:54:00.000+10:00

Everything sounds more romantic in French doesn't it!

Check out my new additions to the Ackoelade vintage collection - beautiful vintage French medallions with the phrase meaning "Love you more than yesterday, less than tomorrow".

These french charms are genuine vintage, not reproductions like most seen around today. They are very rare and have a weightier feel and beautiful vintage patina. I won't be able to get anymore so once I'm sold out of these, they're gone!

Paired simply with a vintage Swarovski blue cut crystal heart, this necklace is a chunkier version in this design. Strung on a beautiful vintage chain with hammered edges, it measures about 16 inches and is finished with a toggle clasp in the front.
Because these charms are vintage, each one is aged in a unique way but all equally beautiful! Very limited.

Check it out instore now!

Spring Is Here!

2007-09-02T01:03:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited! Spring is finally here (in Australia)! Skies are clearing, weather is warming, flowers are blooming (ok not quite yet but soon they will!)

Actually, the real reason why I'm so excited is cos' I've been shopping uncontrollably (seriously, almost criminal like) for the past week, buying beads, charms, chains, vintag-ey stuff and what-nots and I simply can't wait for them to arrive!

I will have sooooooooo much to create with, I can't wait! I anticipate at least one (or two) package(s) in the mail each day for the whole of next week and maybe the week after and it's all gooooood stuff! Stuff I've been hunting down for the longest time and have finally gotten my hands on :)

So you'll have to check into Ackoelade very soon to see what the fuss is all about!

I promise you won't be disappointed!

Now... back to my shopping....

It's A Record!

2007-08-23T12:23:00.000+10:00

Yay! For 2 days in a row I've had a record sale of 5 sales each day!

While for some that might not be much, it's making up damn well for the quiet spell I've had over the past week or so!

Either way, I'm a happy camper, so BIG THANKS to all my buyers out there! Everyone's been giving me real good feedback and I'm glad everyone likes their purchases!

My goal for the month of August was to reach 45 sales and tho' that seemed pretty darn impossible the same time last week, it's now seeming more and more likely! Fingers crossed!

Hugs to all! :)

Tag! I'm it!

2007-08-15T10:37:00.000+10:00

I got tagged by Lissa from Bully Beads quite unsuspectingly. I didn't even know such a thing existed! Not sure where it started but I suppose it's a pretty cool way to spread the word! (I think that's my new slogan... "spread the word" lol)

So if you're here cos' I tagged you, here are the rules:
1. List seven random facts/habits about yourself
2. Choose another SEVEN bloggers to tag and list their names in your blog
3. Leave your seven tagged bloggers comments to notfiy them of their tagging and to direct them to your blog for tag instructions.

So here are 7 facts/habits about me (that you may or may not know, or want to know, or possibly already know) -

1. I have an obsession with checking my Etsy "sold" items every 2 minutes and refreshing my "hearts" to see if I have new fans (and then checking out their profile/store and looking at their favourites - and possibly end up buying something).

2. I have a gross addiction with shopping online for beads/supplies/knick knacks and all sorts of stuff I think I can make jewelry with then end up not knowing what to do with them.

3. Because of my build up in supplies, I recently opened up a second Etsy store to "de-stash" as they call it. Visit it here.

4. I live in an organised mess - my so-called work area where I create all my jewelry is an utter no-go zone to anyone but me because you will get lost in there.

5. I am a self advertising whore. Visit my store for vintage-chic jewelry here. *grin*

6. I am great at bargaining for better prices when I'm buying, but lousy when it comes to sales (i.e. if you ask me for a discount I'll probably give you one because I love bargains myself).

7. I live on my own in Melbourne but have 2 younger sisters and a wonderful family back home and I miss them all!!!

I posted in the forums and found 7 tagees to feature. I've visited their blogs and they are all worthy of mention, check them out!
- Jaredks - Breath-taking photography!
- Craftpudding - Crafty little things by Magda!
- Sheeps Clothing - Fantastic wool knits (and a fellow Melbournian!)
- Anodyne Design - Pretty little totes, purses and wristlets! I like!
- Angelia *A Style - Beautiful art, design & inspiration
- Not That Jaded Designs - ACEOs (Art, Cards, Editions & Originals)
- Lora Kelly Designs - Beautiful Gemstone and Silver Jewelry

That's it! I've done my duty! Now.. how about you visit my store? Oh, did I mention I was a self-advertising whore... :p

100 Hearts and Counting!

2007-08-13T13:39:00.000+10:00

It's been a month and 3 days since I started selling on Etsy and today I attained my 100th heart!

For those not in the know, a "heart" is what buyers/sellers can give to other sellers to let them know they're a favourite! Wouldn't it be great if everyone who "hearted" actually bought something? But at least it's good to know your work is appreciated and there is a chance of future sales to these people who have bookmarked your store ;)

Thanks to all who've hearted me! I just wanted to share the news!

Oh! And I've also opened up a supplies/destash store called LittleMissAckoelade. I'm starting to list a whole heap of my supplies/beads that I've got too much of and don't know what to do with! I tend to go on buying sprees and end up with more beads than I can handle! I'm sure it'll be more useful to someone else and hope you find a bargain that will spark your creativity! The store's only new so check back often for new things added daily.

I'm also waiting on lots of new supplies to arrive (yep... went on a guilty shopping spree... again...) so look out for new additions in the coming weeks!

Hmm.. I guess that's all for now folks! ;)

Talent Database Rocks!

2007-08-09T08:36:00.000+10:00

Woooooooot! As I was peeking around the Etsy forums yesterday, I saw someone post about signing up for a Talent Database account. It looked pretty flash so I went and signed up too (because I need to advertise, advertise, advertise!).

So, I have my account and then this morning I get an email telling me I've been featured on the main Fashion Portal page! *happy dance all around*

You can see it here: Talent Database - Fashion Portal

You'll have to look to the right under "Featured Listings" and yes, I know, it's only a teeny weeny picture of one of my works (1st row, middle pic) but hey! At least it's out there!

This was in the email I got:

"Congratulations.
Your listing has just been featured on the main page of the Fashion Portal channel in the TalentDatabase. You may wish to verify this listing displays your latest contact and biographical information, as well as freshly uploaded samples of your best work in the portfolio section. Expect thousands of people a day to check out your talent listing; our editors think that you deserve it!"

Thousands of people???? Woooohooooo! Let's see if I really do get a thousand hits today!

ANYWAY, for those of you who admire my work (*blush*) here's what you can do to support me! Go Sign Up for an account with Talent Database as a "Fan/Enthusiast" and acknowledge my work! This will help drive traffic to my listing and create even more exposure for my work!

Love to all who have been supporting me this past month! I'm loving this new-found addiction! ;)

Woohoo!

2007-08-07T18:12:00.001+10:00

It's always great to find little surprises like this! (middle picture on 1st row)

This treasury has been up for 2 days but I've only just noticed it! It feels goooooooood ;)

If you want to grab this necklace, it's the last one left so you gotta be quick! Have a closer look here!

So yes, why does it take me that long to notice that something of mine is in a treasury? Well cos' you have to scroll through the pages and only when you see a yellow star next to one, means you're in it!

If you're on Etsy and want to know what it looks like, here it is!

Btw, click on this link to bring the treasury up to the top in the meantime! Expires in 8 hours (which isn't long is it...) Have fun clicking!

For Those Who Missed Out...

2007-08-01T12:51:00.000+10:00

Here's another vintage love charm mix made from absolute treasures! The last design sold out pretty quickly and it was the only piece, so I've put this together for those who missed out!

The vintage heart locket has beautiful intricate designs and opens right up so you can use it the old-fashioned way to store pictures of your loved ones. It's teamed with brass kissing kids and a black and gold tone enameled heart charm.

Strung on a gold-plated chain and finished with a spring clasp, this will sit nicely around your collarbone.

Only 2 pieces available as these heart lockets are very hard to find. You'll have to be quick!

USD 22.00 - Grab it here!

New Look, New Feel!

2007-07-31T11:02:00.000+10:00

I've revamped the shop with a new look and new feel!

All pictures are now posted on a white textured background instead of previously when I had patterns and colours and a lot going on in the background. (Just have a few more to go... it started getting dark as I was taking the pictures)

I think I'm improving on my photos and I'm very excited about them! I recently found my tripod stand which has been heaps useful in taking pictures because I have super unsteady hands. My pics are now much clearer (I think)!

Do support the store by clicking on the links to the right where you can rate my store and help bring it to the top of the list! ;)

Sold Out!

2007-07-30T13:58:00.001+10:00

Oops! My vintage love charm mix necklace previously listed is now sold out! Obviously someone was in love ;)

Hang in there for another of my creations coming soon!

For now, you can still check out the store here or make someone's day by getting them a Gift Certificate!

Are You In Love?

2007-07-29T00:31:00.001+10:00

Maybe your boyfriend should get you this as a present! No reason, no occasion, just because he loves you!

It's a vintage love charm mix and I absolutely love the textured heart pendant engraved with the words "I Love You". It has an aged look which adds lots of beauty and charm to this piece.

Together with a pair of kissing kids, black and gold heart charm and beautiful creamy rose, they are strung on a gold-plated chain and finished with a spring clasp.

Only one available - USD 22.00. Grab it here!

And Again!

2007-07-27T10:38:00.000+10:00

Yay! My butterfly cameo has been featured in an Etsy Treasury!

This is my 3rd feature since Ackoelade has started and it feels nice to be recognised! I guess this kinda makes up for the lack in sales ;)

Here's the link if you're quick enough! http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=4033

Featured in Treasury Again!

2007-07-26T15:42:00.000+10:00

Yay! This has just made my day! *Happy Dance*

Featured AGAIN in an Etsy Treasury! Woooohoooo!

This time I took a screen shot cos' the links expire. If you're in time tho' you can check it out http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=3894=)

The Perfect Little Present!

2007-07-26T12:35:00.000+10:00

Ackoelade now has Gift Vouchers!

Get someone special the perfect little present today! Starting from only USD 10.00, it's the perfect gift for anyone, anytime.

These can be redeemed at anytime, 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year by shopping at Ackoelade!

Come on, make someone's day today!

EDIT: I've decided to offer these gift vouchers on my Etsy store instead so check them out here.

Do you like lockets?

2007-07-26T11:40:00.000+10:00

I do! Lockets are so old fashioned in a funky way! Use them to store treasures or pictures of loved ones and it'll be a keepsake forever! Great as a gift or even just to spoil urself ;)

Take a look at my newest creation here. Only 2 available in this design so you have to be quick!

Spread the word about Etsy!

2007-07-26T08:15:00.001+10:00

For those of you who are clueless about what Etsy is, read this cool article and help spread the word! ;)

Take me home

2007-07-24T13:38:00.000+10:00

Beautiful 3D Butterfly Cameo

This beautiful cameo is set on a lilac background and strung on an antiqued silver rolo chain that hangs down just over the bust line. Length can be adjusted and dont' worry, the butterfly is quite sturdy and wouldn't break off unless extreme force is exerted.

Grab it quick!

10 items in 10 days!

2007-07-20T10:16:00.000+10:00

Whoa! I've sold 10 items in 10 days! I'm so excited!

At the start it was slow, I was anxious and afraid of getting lost amongst the heap of creative sellers on Etsy. I spent a lot of time fixing up my pictures, my profile, descriptions, names of items and now it seems to have paid off because things are looking up!

So far in the 10 days that I've been on Etsy, I've sold to Australia, Canada, States and even Phillippines! One order was even for 4 necklaces in one hit! Of course I gave her a good discount ;)

One lady even bought the Secret Memories Cameo Locket for her wedding! Can you believe it? So honoured!

Oh! And I was even featured in a Treasury List already! (if you didn't already read my last entry)

I'm so excited! I'm loving it and hoping it keeps up the way it's been going!

Kisses and hugs to all my supporters out there! =)

Visit Ackoelade's Store Now!

Featured In An Etsy Treasury!

2007-07-19T13:24:00.000+10:00

This has just made my day! I just found my item featured in an Etsy Treasury! This is a major boost to my morale seeing Ackoelade has only been open for 7 days to date.

Being in a treasury list is all by chance if someone with a list likes ur item. Then again by chance, that list may be chosen to be featured on the main page! Cool stuff!

Click on this link to view! Hurry! It expires on Sat July 21st!
Etsy Treasury: Too Many Talented Sellers

With any luck, it'll be chosen to be featured on the main page ;)

http://www.ackoelade.etsy.com/

Ackoelade Is Born!

2007-07-11T13:23:00.000+10:00

OK! So for those of you who haven't heard, Ackoelade is born!

Ackoelade brings you an exclusive line of handcrafted jewellery ranging from vintage chic to girly glam!

Vintage finds, charms, lockets, beads, chains, pearls and crystals are all pieced together to create unique pieces of jewellery which I like to call Ackoelades! These have all been painstakingly sourced from all over the world including USA, West Germany, Italy and Japan!

Because some components used are genuinely vintage and hard to find, most designs are limited to only very few pieces and cannot be recreated once sold out.

Btw, if you haven't heard of Etsy, it's a great website (a bit like Ebay) where you can buy unique, handmade items securely online. Be warned, it's addictive! Slightly like a flea market but online. I like =)

See you soon at http://www.ackoelade.etsy.com/!