some summer songs

Life is more than difficult for me right now. Nothing even feels real.
If I wasn't able to work on Fun Cult a little bit, I think I would be in bed forever. I know I would. When you're in bed forever you may as well have headphones on. I made you all a special summer mix filled mostly with some old favorites. I hope you will like it.

You can listen on 8Tracks HERE
or you can find it published in Spotify if you search "See You in June", I believe? Or go HERE - But apparently the first two songs as well as the final song are not available on Spotify.
Anyway, you can play it right here..

SEE YOU IN JUNE from FUN CULT on 8tracks Radio.

Just 'Cos

Hello! Just popping in to say hello!
Super busy over here keeping up with the fringe banner orders! I am so excited that they have had such a tremendous debut. It's been a lot to handle and I'm a little behind, though I'm really enjoying the process and can't wait for them to reach their owners.

I thought today I'd share with you something a little silly..perhaps you'll enjoy it. It's a mix that I made for myself and friends in the early spring of '09. It's meant for those nights when you swear warmer weather can't be too far off, though it's still quite chilly and the winter blues are tough. It also reminds me of weird proms..but I think that may be a description that only my mind can see..hear..
Anyway, high fives if you finish it all..it's pretty long, i guess. It's just how I do it. If you need to stop half way, the Ashra song is a good middle. Props if you make it to the Rich Boy loop near the end. yup.

for my friends. April 2009.
Track list image: www.last.fm/music/Dark+Moon+Mix
here are a bunch of songs that i wanted to hear together. the transitions are really, really horrible.. but the songs are good! i wasn't sure how to use the computer dj mixer program (did you know i use to for-real dj?), specifically how to use "two hands"..all i had was the mouse. and i didn't want to plug in my headphones for fear of my sound card getting loose again...
but i hope you like the songs. it's kind of a prom freakout maybe.. and your date's convertible stalled so you had to walk to the dance on that long winding road with all the trees and the moon was full at first but became darker and darker as you continued down the road..

Dark Moon Mix by nice-etc

You can listen to it here or download it by clicking the down arrow on the right of the bar. You can see the track listing on the last.fm page ;)

Nice things for you!

Today is my birthday! I'd like to include 3 FREE POSTCARDS with  purchases made today in the shop!
Just let me know which 3 you'd like in  the message to seller box (look in the artwork section to view them  all)! :)

Exclusive Facebook Deals

I'm trying to spiff up my Facebook page! I added this image to a new tab, but it's appearing very small..I'm pretty sure I've seen other pages use a large image- how can I make mine larger/it's original size as it appears above?
Anyway, I wanted to suggest that you "Like" Nice on Facebook if you haven't already! It really means a great deal to me- It's a huge motivational boost to see the "fan" number go up, and just by simply "Liking" Nice it can be enough to help my business grow..who knows who may decide to also like Nice once they notice that you have. So yes, I appreciate it very much, and like the image above says, I'm going to use it to show that I Like you, too! ;) There will indeed be a special sale for Facebook Likers soon!!

By the Light of the Silvery Moon..Happy New Year!!

Wishing you all the best on the dawn of a new decade! Sounds so serious, doesn't it?

Thanks for hangin' around this lil' blog, Etsy, Twitter, Facebook, etc!
It was a pretty fine 2009, looking forward to 2010! Have a wonderful new year and enjoy the blue moon!

Hooray! The Winner Has Been Drawn..

The winner of Applique Your Way has been chosen by the infamous random.org - Kerri W.!
Thank you all so very much for entering! If you didn't win, be sure to keep following the blog tour for more chances and other fun things...or drop lots of hints and hope it's under your tree later this week! It's a perfect companion for long winter days when you're snowed indoors!

Garland Lights Tutorial

The other night my Mom and I made a bit of time to do some holiday projects together. We've both been really busy this year and we were so happy to relax and make some things for ourselves, haha. 

I am a huge fan of Christmas lights. My current favorite are just from Ikea. They are LED so they don't get hot..and they seem to have a more simple and modern feel to them vs. the ones you find at the regular local store (right? or am I buying into Ikea's design aesthetic? haha). I also love them because they are not bright blueish-white, but a nice subtle whitish-yellow. We also used regular old Christmas lights, but please, please practice caution no matter what lights you use...and just to be safe, don't leave them on while you're not at home.

Needed: silver pipe cleaners, tulle (I used light pink) cut into small pieces, about 3x4 inches each, felt (I used grey), glitter glue (easy and no mess, I used silver), scissors

It's quite simple! Take a single pipe cleaner, wrap one creating a circle about an inch round, secure it in place by wrapping one end over the other once or twice so it won't come undone. Place 1 or two fingers into the circle and wrap the end around your fingers, creating smaller and smaller circles, like a cyclone shape.

Take two pieces of the tulle scraps (or as many as you'd like) and sort of scrunch them around a single light, secure them to the strand by inserting the light into the middle of the pipe cleaner "cyclone". Use the tail end to wrap around the tulle and the light strand, securing it in place.

I also cut out scalloped circles, or flowers,  from grey felt, and embellished them with glitter on both sides. Cut an x in the middle of the flower to insert it onto the bulb. Due to the design of my light strand, I needed to keep the flower in place, so I wrapped a quarter of a single pipe cleaner around the "stem" of the bulb.  I also did this to random lights just for subtle touch of sparkle.

For the second style you'll need: Gold pipe cleaners, felt (I used white), glitter glue (I used iridescent, silver, and pink), cupcake liners (I am addicted to Amanda's cupcake liners at Bake it Pretty!), scissors.

I placed everything randomly on this strand, I didn't want it to look theme-y, if that makes sense. I made more "cyclones" in gold pipe cleaners, but without tulle this time. I also cut out star-like shapes from the felt and used glitter on both sides, again cutting and x in the middle, sliding it on and securing it with a quarter of 1 gold pipe cleaner. I was very excited to use my cupcake liners, I just cut them like my felt designs and secured them as well.

Totally easy and so cute! My mom and I are really excited about the pipe cleaner "cyclones" (or bells as we were calling them at the time). I haven't seen this done before, but it seemed like such a natural thing, haha.

If you decide to make your own I'd LOVE to see! The possibilities are endless.. A couple years ago my mom wrapped our lights in tinsel- they are beautiful! I am anxious to get makin' even more styles..cos you know I keep these around all year, right? haha I really enjoy them- I hope you will as well!

Giveaway & Guest Post from Kayte Terry of Applique Your Way!

Today on Nice-Etc.com I am thrilled to present a post with Kayte Terry the author of Applique Your Way (out now through Chronicle Books)! You may already know Kayte from her blog, This is Love Forever, her abundance of cute and unique project tutorials on Craft Stylish, or perhaps through her first book Complete Embellishing. Her newest book is filled to the brim with amazing projects (that make great holiday gifts!) and precise directions with easy to use patterns. Did you know that the wonderfully talented Jennifer Causey did the photos for the book? It's such a lovely book that I  know you'll enjoy and reference often. I am so very excited to be included among many other talented artists and makers. In Applique Your Way you can learn how to make a Hooray banner of your own!

Kayte is here today to kick start her blog tour and share with us her favorite sources for craft supplies and other pretty things. aannnnd you can enter here today to win an copy of Applique Your Way! Just leave your name, last initial at least, and your email. Feel free to let us know your favorite supply sources as well! For now, here are Kayte's favorites! Get your link clicking finger ready..

Since I make things for a living, I have a tendency to do a lot of craft shopping and sourcing. I am definitely someone who buys what I love first and then figures out what to do with it. Of course, when I have a job to do, I just get what I need, but I think my natural inclination at craft stores is just to wander and get inspiration.

I buy a lot of things at flea markets and thrift stores so when I see it and I like it, I have to grab it. I buy tons of big craft lots on eBay and Etsy- they are some much fun to unpack because you never know what you are going to get!

But, I am also a huge fan of the independent specialized craft store and frequent them as much as my checkbook can afford me! Yes, they are a little bit pricier than the big box chains but the quality of their stuff is so much better and worth it in the long run.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Metalliferous

A full-service jewelry supplier of metal, findings, and beads. Prepare to spend hours combing through the many bins of findings, vintage charms, and chains in every style imaginable.  

Purl Patchwork

purlsoho.com

purlsoho.com/thepurlbee 

One of my favorite fabric stores, Purl carries cottons from all the heavy-hitters like Denyse Schmidt and Amy Butler as well as some unusual Japanese imports and beautiful cotton solids in a million colors. They have a constantly changing inventory, so check in often and buy when you see something you really love.

   

VV Rouleaux

I had the chance to visit VV Rouleaux last year, and it is an embellishment paradise! Gorgeous ribbons, silk flowers, tassels, and feathers abound in this luxe boutique.

  

 M & Trim

Buttons, ribbons, sew-on jewels, and trims fill shelves from floor to ceiling in this well organized shop. I think M & J is a little slice of heaven. Remember to ask for prices before they start cutting as trims have a sneaky habit of getting very expensive. 

I also recommend starting at M & J and exploring everything else in the Garment District in New York. You never know what you will find.

  


Liberty of London

For many years, Liberty of London fabrics have been famous for their bright colors and gorgeous prints. This massive department store carries the entire Liberty fabric line as well as general sewing supplies, ribbon, and trims.

 

Tinsel Trading

Known for its elaborate millinery flowers and vintage trims, Tinsel Trading is a favorite amongst NYC’s many photo stylists. Chests of drawers hold colorful charms and cabachons and bins are filled with vintage sequins. Don’t forget to check out The Shop Across the Street, Tinsel Trading’s outpost of ribbons, papers, and paper craft.

   

Britex Fabric

If you’re into sewing and you live in or plan to visit San Francisco, you have to visit Britex Fabrics. Their selection is amazing and extensive, though not cheap. It reminds me a lot of Mood Fabrics in New York and LA (moodfabrics.com).

  


Fabric Row in Philadelphia

I just moved to Philly and was mourning the loss of my precious New York Garment District until I found out that I lived just a short walk from Fabric Row in Philly. Like everything compared to New York, it is quite a bit cheaper and less intimidating. You can find everything you need from notions and trim to fabric and sewing machine repair right here on 4^th Street just below South Street. 

   

Knittn’ Kitten

This Portland, Oregon shop is a treasure trove of vintage and new craft supplies, all priced to sell (I am not kidding, go to this store and shop your heart out!!). A couple of my Portland friends introduced me to this store and it is on my must-visit list every time I go west.

  


Parcel

I just discovered this Montclair, NJ store a couple of months ago while on a work trip and I already can’t wait to get back there. The jewel-box of a shop is filled to the brim with everything from millinery flowers and leaves, vintage game pieces and rows and rows of ribbons. Everything is beautiful and precious- I felt like I died and went to my very own special heaven.

There you have it! Tons of fantastic sources to get you inspired and ready to create! Thank you so much, Kayte!
Keep on the look out at This Is Love Forever to find out where the next stop on the Applique Your Way blog tour will be..so many surprises in store!

And don't forget that 1 lucky reader will be drawn to win a copy!
Leave your name, last initial, and email. 
Feel free to leave info on your favorite craft and inspiration sources, too!

You have until December 18th!

Be sure to tell your friends and feel free to post about this giveaway on your blog!

It's time for a vintage sale! All vintage items in the shop are 40% off until Monday 8pm central time - even sale items will receive an additional 40% off! Just make your purchase and I will send you and updated Paypal invoice - if your Etsy email is different from your Paypal email, please put your Paypal email address in the message to seller box upon check-out.

I hope you enjoy the sale!

<3
Caitlin

It's true! Not only will you receive the gift charm free with every purchase from Nice, you will now receive a VINTAGE deer ornament with your purchase of $40 or more!
Those of you who subscribe to the mailing list already got a few days head start on this offer, so hurry! The vintage deer are not lasting long!



Skip on over to www.nice.etsy.com to see the brand new handmade and vintage goods!

Did you have a nice Thanksgiving? Mine was laid back..seems it always is. I made a pie found in Domino magazine..chocolate pecan pie.. I made it because James really loves pecan pie, and I don't haha..I just like chocolate, so I figured this must be the perfect compromise. ..It wasn't so great, and I actually don't think it was me! (I'm not a big fan of cooking/baking..I only get spurts of inspiration every now and then). The recipe called for bakers chocolate to take the edge off off the pecan sweetness..maybe milk chocolate would have been ok though. I don't know haha.

Any interesting stories from the weekend?

Pssst!! There's going to be another special little something...those who are a part of the mailing list will be the first to know, and possibly the only ones to know if supplies do not last! But I promise that there's still some time to join before the word gets out! Sign up to the left! :)

EXCITING NEWS! Now until December 31 (while supplies last!) you will receive a free gift charm with your purchase from Nice! Any item, vintage or handmade! The tag reads, "Looks like you have been nice". ...Get it? Just a kind little gesture, some reassurance that there isn't actually a bit of coal awaiting inside their package!

I had fun doing some photo promos with my brother..

So get them while they are still available!

Also! My new business cards came! Overnightprints.com was the most recommended..and was so easy to use..and quick! I am very pleased. ..I was kinda afraid of getting the rounded corners, Ursala, your fear was mine! ..But! I think it was for the best and I'm digging them. :)

I can't wait to hand them out. :) Thanks for all of your input..greatly appreciated!!
But finally! I have to send out a HUGE WONDERFUL thank you to the lovely Ms. Anabela (visit her vintage Etsy shop here) who made a post about a simple little matchbox that sparked the design for the tags and new business cards. I am in love with it! <3

Have a great weekend everyone!

Ok so I've set up a spot to display the images you send in of your Nice purchases! I've put this banner/link on the sidebar as well. I'm quite excited to show off your photos, so keep sending them in! Remember the prize for this month, as noted in this post, will be 3 cards and envelopes from our stationary, a special project between my brother and I!

So what's new with you? What summer activities have you been up to?

Got it? This will be a continuous thing, each month! So anytime you purchase something from me, all you have to do is send in a photo and the least you'll get out of it is a mix cd and some attention to your blog/website! Note: If you make a purchase, say in July, and then again a few months later, I can make you a new mix cd, just let me know you already received the other one!

Since it is not the beginning of the month, you have until Friday, August 31 2007 to send in your photos. However, any photos received after the date will be valid for the following month's drawing! The first prize will be 3 cards and envelopes from the debut of the Nice stationary line!! It's very possible this line will not be available for purchase until after the Renegade Fair in September!!

I'm really excited about this! So go on and make a purchase or send a photo of what you already have! LetsWriteCaitlin[at]hotmail[dot]com
Feel free to ask any questions.