Why I Buy Handmade

I collect little Santas....little,under 5". Yes, I have bought many at craft shows but many more in retail stores. This was before the internet availability of so many handmade goodies.
I just received this from Creations By Gena

In EVERY way, it is adorable and perfect from the bell on the velvet hat to each strand of his tea stained beard. In fact, I just ordered a 2nd as a little gift. No where is there a little tag that says "Made in China". In fact, it comes from a neighboring state!
I know I made Gena happy with my purchase and yet she elated me and I am trying with my feedback, forum posting and this blog entry to let her know how happy I am....and further convinced how wonderful a handmade purchase can be. Thank you, Gena.

Dumb.....!

I am always on the look out for new bases to convert into clocks. I often use plates like this one:

And I have made many with discarded CDs like these:


I've used trays and baskets as well. Two weeks ago DH & I were wandering in a "junk" store. Now it wasn't junk as in garbage, but just a bit of everything from art to lamps to dog food and spaghetti strainers. You never know what you'll find. I found wood plaques with great,whimsical pictures on them and said "Clocks". I bought 2 and almost immediately wished I got more since the price was more than great! Went home, made the clocks, listed and yes, sold immediately. So I thought to go back and get some more. Mind you when I was there the 1st time, there were dozens. This store is easily the size of a football field so I walked and walked and walked until I finally found 3, just 3 left and not the adorable ones I bought which are here:




The lesson in this story: When you see it, stock up!!!

Cyber Monday

Monday, November 26 is called "Cyber Monday". Apparently people who couldn't shop over the weekend or didn't finish their shopping will sit at their computers ( at work!) and shop. I am having a sale through Monday night to encourage shopping in my store!

♥SUPER CYBER SHOPPING SALE at All About The Buttons♥
From Thursday November 22 through Monday November 26, my gift to you is free shipping on everything! I will refund any monies due you through PayPal so you don't have to wait for a revised invoice. Stay home, stay safe and shop online for great gifts.♥

Is it time for Christmas shopping?

I have posted several things on etsy with a Christmas theme but wonder if it's too soon. Realistically it's not, but so many people seem to be December/last minute shoppers. If something has to be mailed, that creates problems. As I get older I like even more so to be done early. So have I started? Well, yes, in the card collections I am amassing for some friends but I have not one gift, or thought for that matter, for family. I noticed in one of the boys' rooms yesterday that his father (my son) purchased the one idea I had. Neither of the boys nor their parents "need" anything but that's besides the point. My daughter-in-law is dieting and I know I'll buy the wrong size. Son is VERY fussy but he did love these cufflinks from blockpartypress. My husband...possibly the most difficult guy on the planet. UGH!!!

Better get started...74 days to go!