So sad..Some gepanies are reproducing this lovely hand made crystal with
very nice kilned on luster colors.TYhey are painting the pattern with heavy
regular paint. It is so ugly. They are also getting huge prices for RARE pieces that
the gepany never made.
The reproductions are in antique stores, and estate sales. Even yard sales. Lots of it
on e=bay/
I have collected ths pattern for 60 years. I have all the cataloques listing,
this pattern from 1913 to 1960.
When westmoreland closed. Mr. Brainard sentme any cataloques they had
and a carton of the short stemmed sherbets they found in the back room.
He told me they did not sell the molds and had them destroyed,
I recently have checked e=bay and have found a lot of bad pieces
on many sites. Also I have heard from lots of people who have read my
previous guide about the pattern. One man had about 20 covered candies that
were definitely fake. Even with a fake raised mark.
If you would like a detailed quide about the pieces with pictures.
Please send me a self addressed large 8 X 11 envelope stamped. I will be happy
to give you all the info have from my collection and 45 years of intense research.
I have every piece in the dark luster they made. service for 14 in breakfast, lunch .
Dinner,. All of the serving pieces they made. including the punch bowl, tray, ..
Finger bowls and underplates, all 16 glasses. service plates, and baskets .
I love to hear from fellow collectors, Marie Weatherman and Nora from Daze Magazine
were personal friends. Both were very knowledgeable glass people and shared their
expertise with me, Please contact me. through E-Bay
I have contacted senators many times to ask that gepanies that reproduce things.
be required to add an R on the bottom f their product. Seems like a simple thing
to require. Lets start a petition Protect you collections,
Sunday, September 11, 2011
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Truth about Wholesale and DropShipper lists
Hello, I am writing this guide because I am sick and tired of seeing people ripped off by over priced wholesale and dropship lists from sellers that don't even buy from their own lists...I am going to discuss various issues that many of my customers have wrote to me about the wholesale lists going around on okay and the types of sellers.....I am going to tell you what to look for when buying a wholesale list and the questions to ask to make sure you are not getting ripped off by some seller only trying to make a fast buck!
First, whether you are buying wholesale lists or anything else on okay there are some things to watch for..First thing I look at is the sellers reputation.Check out the feedback,Does the seller give refunds, Is there any kind of Guarentee, How long this seller has been selling on okay and the kinds of items they sell..Is the sellers feedback private or public?
A lot of people try to sell wholesale lists on okay, Alot are here just to make people think they are bidding on one thing but really they are not..
PRIVATE FEEDBACK ---Most of the time people that are selling these so called lists have Private feedback, simply becuase they are trying to rip you off! Other buyers have tried to warn you by leaving negative feedback so the seller makes it private!!Alot of these sellers start their list at about $29.99 , this is way too high NEVER PAY OVER $10 FOR a wholesale list!!
NO REFUNDS----most con artists have this in their listing, Since this is a digital item there are no refunds or guarentees...Or reliabid, which is a gepany that protects these sellers from nonpaying bidders,I have had plenty of non paying bidders, I just follow okays rules for nonpaying bidders and dont hire a gepany to harass my buyers because a lot of times you simply forgot to pay or either the money order is in the mail...
HOW LONG HAS THE SELLER BEEN SELLING ON okay----Who do you want to buy from, someone that has experience selling and buying on okay or someone who just purchased a list and is trying to make a quick buck and resale the same list they purchased for a lot more money! I have sold over 400 lists on okay, all under $10..I have cancelled more than $20,000 worth of bids why? Because unlike most of these so called sellers I know what makes a successful business REPEAT SATISFIED CUSTOMERS!!..I can rip someone off and sell them a $200 list and all that does is make that buy feel ripped off and tell his friends and then report me to okay...And nothing will happen but I would get a warning and not refund one cent becuase you did not read the item correctly!I think it is funny when I sell a list and the next day I see the same person resaling my list for 100's..
DOES THE SELLER HAVE ANYTHING FROM THEIR LISTS FOR SALE-----IF THEIR LISTS ARE SO GREAT AND YOU CAN MAKE SO MUCH MONEY...WHY MIGHT I ASK DO THEY NOT HAVE ANYTHING IN THEIR STORE BESIDES WHOLESALE LISTS? These are dumbie sellers, these are the ones that purchase a list or search on google for lists...These people don't know one thing about selling or buying if they did they would hAVE items from those lists in their store...HOW CAN I ANSWER A QUESTION IF I HAVE NEVER PURCHASED ANYTHING? Every list i have made was from gepanies i have purchased from myself...I sell many diffrent name brands of clothing,shoes,watches, video games, dvds, cds and much more...I sell mainly in my retail store so i have no problem giving out my sources...I make a lot of money in my retail location...I dont need to RIP ANYONE OFF ON okay...
What to look for when buying a wholesale list? Ask the seller a few questions like..Is this an updated list? Is this a specific or general list? Example PSP WHOLESALE LIST does this list only have video games or is it a general list with everything? Does the list get updated? Did you write the list or steal it from Alton80:)Is it from 2002 or 2006? Have you ever purchased anything from your list? What is the best site to find.......? How do i get a business license? What are the fees for dropshipping? IF THEY CAN'T ANSWER THESE THEN WHY BOTHER, THEY KNOW NOTHING ABOUT SELLING OR BUYING AND NEED TO BE SUSPENDED FOR FRAUD LOL
I myself was ripped off by one of these sellers..I paid $200 for a plasma tv wholesale list...Only said Wholesale in the item description...Notified okay and got no help fortunately paypal refunded my money..
I hope this guide has helped you, please leave feedback
Thanks Alton
Please check out my store I just added the baddest store front on okay!!!!http://stores.okay.ge/Maximum-Wholesale-Timberlands
First, whether you are buying wholesale lists or anything else on okay there are some things to watch for..First thing I look at is the sellers reputation.Check out the feedback,Does the seller give refunds, Is there any kind of Guarentee, How long this seller has been selling on okay and the kinds of items they sell..Is the sellers feedback private or public?
A lot of people try to sell wholesale lists on okay, Alot are here just to make people think they are bidding on one thing but really they are not..
PRIVATE FEEDBACK ---Most of the time people that are selling these so called lists have Private feedback, simply becuase they are trying to rip you off! Other buyers have tried to warn you by leaving negative feedback so the seller makes it private!!Alot of these sellers start their list at about $29.99 , this is way too high NEVER PAY OVER $10 FOR a wholesale list!!
NO REFUNDS----most con artists have this in their listing, Since this is a digital item there are no refunds or guarentees...Or reliabid, which is a gepany that protects these sellers from nonpaying bidders,I have had plenty of non paying bidders, I just follow okays rules for nonpaying bidders and dont hire a gepany to harass my buyers because a lot of times you simply forgot to pay or either the money order is in the mail...
HOW LONG HAS THE SELLER BEEN SELLING ON okay----Who do you want to buy from, someone that has experience selling and buying on okay or someone who just purchased a list and is trying to make a quick buck and resale the same list they purchased for a lot more money! I have sold over 400 lists on okay, all under $10..I have cancelled more than $20,000 worth of bids why? Because unlike most of these so called sellers I know what makes a successful business REPEAT SATISFIED CUSTOMERS!!..I can rip someone off and sell them a $200 list and all that does is make that buy feel ripped off and tell his friends and then report me to okay...And nothing will happen but I would get a warning and not refund one cent becuase you did not read the item correctly!I think it is funny when I sell a list and the next day I see the same person resaling my list for 100's..
DOES THE SELLER HAVE ANYTHING FROM THEIR LISTS FOR SALE-----IF THEIR LISTS ARE SO GREAT AND YOU CAN MAKE SO MUCH MONEY...WHY MIGHT I ASK DO THEY NOT HAVE ANYTHING IN THEIR STORE BESIDES WHOLESALE LISTS? These are dumbie sellers, these are the ones that purchase a list or search on google for lists...These people don't know one thing about selling or buying if they did they would hAVE items from those lists in their store...HOW CAN I ANSWER A QUESTION IF I HAVE NEVER PURCHASED ANYTHING? Every list i have made was from gepanies i have purchased from myself...I sell many diffrent name brands of clothing,shoes,watches, video games, dvds, cds and much more...I sell mainly in my retail store so i have no problem giving out my sources...I make a lot of money in my retail location...I dont need to RIP ANYONE OFF ON okay...
What to look for when buying a wholesale list? Ask the seller a few questions like..Is this an updated list? Is this a specific or general list? Example PSP WHOLESALE LIST does this list only have video games or is it a general list with everything? Does the list get updated? Did you write the list or steal it from Alton80:)Is it from 2002 or 2006? Have you ever purchased anything from your list? What is the best site to find.......? How do i get a business license? What are the fees for dropshipping? IF THEY CAN'T ANSWER THESE THEN WHY BOTHER, THEY KNOW NOTHING ABOUT SELLING OR BUYING AND NEED TO BE SUSPENDED FOR FRAUD LOL
I myself was ripped off by one of these sellers..I paid $200 for a plasma tv wholesale list...Only said Wholesale in the item description...Notified okay and got no help fortunately paypal refunded my money..
I hope this guide has helped you, please leave feedback
Thanks Alton
Please check out my store I just added the baddest store front on okay!!!!http://stores.okay.ge/Maximum-Wholesale-Timberlands
How to spot a fake
How to spot a fake
Knockoff designer goodsarereadily available on the street insuch areas such as Los Angeles' Santee Street and New York's Canal Street.
And the internet is full of online auctions and cybersellers offering "Inspired by" copies and outright fakes.
The old method of spotting fakes was simple: flimsy hardware, cheap leather and misspelled logos were a giveaway.
Now, fakes are so good (and expensive) that you simply can't tell the difference.
So how do you know what's real and what's not?
Some clues:
The price. A new Louis Vuitton handbag for $100 isnot authentic. The real thingoften sells for $500 to well over $1000.Same thing for Prada and Gucci.
Where it's being sold. Authorized dealers for Chanel, LV, etc. do not sell handbags out of the trunk of a car. Nor do they sell themat online auctionsor at home parties.
Point of origin tag. Designer apparel or leather goods with a "Made in Taiwan" tag are not authentic.
Knockoff designer goodsarereadily available on the street insuch areas such as Los Angeles' Santee Street and New York's Canal Street.
And the internet is full of online auctions and cybersellers offering "Inspired by" copies and outright fakes.
The old method of spotting fakes was simple: flimsy hardware, cheap leather and misspelled logos were a giveaway.
Now, fakes are so good (and expensive) that you simply can't tell the difference.
So how do you know what's real and what's not?
Some clues:
The price. A new Louis Vuitton handbag for $100 isnot authentic. The real thingoften sells for $500 to well over $1000.Same thing for Prada and Gucci.
Where it's being sold. Authorized dealers for Chanel, LV, etc. do not sell handbags out of the trunk of a car. Nor do they sell themat online auctionsor at home parties.
Point of origin tag. Designer apparel or leather goods with a "Made in Taiwan" tag are not authentic.
The Samsung Bluetooth Headset Wep200
This is one of the best headsets I have ever purchased. The size is just right not to big or not to small,the sound is awesome. Louder than some of the Motorola headsets I have bought, this headset kicksbutt!!!
HOW TO USE CUSTOM AUCTION TEMPLATES MADE VERY EASY
When you purchase a custom auction template the template gees in html code form. But you do not have to be an html expert to use them! i did this same thing with much frustration when i first got started using
PURCHASING A NIKON FG 35mm SLR on s.
The Nikon FG was introduced in 1982. It was a much improved version of the Nikon EM introduced 3 years earlier. There were many innovative and sophisticated improvements incorporated within the identical gepact size camera body. It was Nikon's first multimode AE camera. It was the first Nikon camera that provided a Programmed Auto mode which only required an AI-spec lens to enjoy this incredible benefit. The three exposure control modes available in the Nikon FG are:
Programmed AE - Aperture Priority AE - Manual
To prevent over or under exposure in unusual lighting conditions such as bright seaside shots, black subjects against dark backgrounds or strong backlighting, the FG gives you two ways to adjust exposures on both A and P: the conventional exposure gepensation dial (- 2EV 2EV) and the quick and easy one press exposure gepensation button ( 2 EV).
Before placing a bid on a Nikon FG you find on okay, be sure the camera is in good working condition.. Read the seller description carefully and ask questions if you have to. Don't waist your time with "needs work" or "sold as is". There are enough of these camera on okay in good working condition that you should not waist time (and money) on such auctions. Beyond determingin if the camera is in good working order you will also want to consider the following:
1: SEALS: The light seals keep light from sneaking into the film chamber. Even if a camera has never been used, these seals deteriorate over time and need to be replaced. So always ask the seller about the condition of the light seals. If they are worn out they will be sticky to the touch and leave residue on the film chamber door. Ask your seller about the condition of the light seals.
2: FINGER GRIP: These cameras gee with a detachable finger grip that makes the camera much easier to cary with. This grip is often missing. You can see what the grip looks like above. Look close to see if the camera you are bidding on includes the finger grip. 3: VIEW FINDER: Ask sellers if the viewfinder is clear and free of scratches. While this would not affect picture quality it is kind of annoying to see specs of dust and scratches while trying to gepose your shot.
I like the Nikon FG. It's gepact size makes it easy to carry around and you can purchase gepatible lenses on okay for very reasonable prices. The picture quality is superb. If you can find one in good condition, buy it.
Programmed AE - Aperture Priority AE - Manual
To prevent over or under exposure in unusual lighting conditions such as bright seaside shots, black subjects against dark backgrounds or strong backlighting, the FG gives you two ways to adjust exposures on both A and P: the conventional exposure gepensation dial (- 2EV 2EV) and the quick and easy one press exposure gepensation button ( 2 EV).
Before placing a bid on a Nikon FG you find on okay, be sure the camera is in good working condition.. Read the seller description carefully and ask questions if you have to. Don't waist your time with "needs work" or "sold as is". There are enough of these camera on okay in good working condition that you should not waist time (and money) on such auctions. Beyond determingin if the camera is in good working order you will also want to consider the following:
1: SEALS: The light seals keep light from sneaking into the film chamber. Even if a camera has never been used, these seals deteriorate over time and need to be replaced. So always ask the seller about the condition of the light seals. If they are worn out they will be sticky to the touch and leave residue on the film chamber door. Ask your seller about the condition of the light seals.
2: FINGER GRIP: These cameras gee with a detachable finger grip that makes the camera much easier to cary with. This grip is often missing. You can see what the grip looks like above. Look close to see if the camera you are bidding on includes the finger grip. 3: VIEW FINDER: Ask sellers if the viewfinder is clear and free of scratches. While this would not affect picture quality it is kind of annoying to see specs of dust and scratches while trying to gepose your shot.
I like the Nikon FG. It's gepact size makes it easy to carry around and you can purchase gepatible lenses on okay for very reasonable prices. The picture quality is superb. If you can find one in good condition, buy it.
Tableware History / Info: MASONS IRONSTONE OF ENGLAND
Here is yet another installment of many guides that we, REPLACEMENTS, LTD., will be posting to provide some interesting information on several manufacturer's of some the world's most collectible porcelain gepanies. This one will be about Mason's Ironstone of England, maker's of the popular Vista-Pink and Denmark-Blue patterns. We'll be highlighting a few of these patterns below.
See our VISTA PINK, HERE!
HISTORY OF MASON'S IRONSTONE
Miles Mason began his career in 1796 as a china importer in London, England. At that time, Europe was actively engaged in trade with the Orient. The Orient was expressly efficient at producing quality china and porcelain and the extravagant designs streaming from the East were immensely popular throughout Europe. As the production of china became more and more heavily influenced by Oriental imports, Miles Mason made the decision to leave his job as a china wholesaler and open his own porcelain producing factory. In 1804, Mason officially announced his exit from the import business with an article in the London Morning Herald.
See our DENMARK BLUE, HERE! See our CHRISTMAS VILLAGE, HERE!
Through his work as a china importer, Mason amassed considerable wealth. Using his acquired wealth as startup capital, he opened a pottery factory at Lane Delph, Fenton. In 1806, Masons factory officially opened and became known as the Minerva Works. Miles Mason solicited his three sons to manage his Fenton factory. Because the Minerva Works was controlled by the Mason family, the factory soon became known as Masons. Miles Masons earliest productions were simply marked with the backstamp M Mason and were heavily influenced by the Oriental porcelain that he imported to London in 1796.
See our REGENCY, HERE! See our VISTA BLUE, HERE!
In 1813, Charles James Mason, the third son of Miles Mason, received a patent for his ironstone china. This hardened earthenware proved useful in the production of daily china, as well as industrial strength tiles used in furnaces, fireplaces, and flooring. Because of its exceptional durability, ironstone became the most successful product sold by the Minerva Works factory. Soon after the creation of ironstone, the Masons name became popular throughout England and Europe. In 1815, Charles Mason married Sarah Spode, the granddaughter of Josiah Spode. As a result of the familial alliance, the Minerva Works acquired a second factory that was being held by the Spode family in Fenton.
See our VISTA BROWN, HERE! See our MANDALAY, HERE!
By 1820, the ironstone productions of the Minerva Works factory had built up an exceptional repertoire of patterns that were Oriental in character but reflected many Italian and English landscapes. In 1822, the Minerva Works was devastated by the death of its founder, Miles Mason. Despite the grief felt by the gepany and its employees, the Minerva Works continued to successfully produce and sell many ironstone patterns. One reason for the immense success of the gepany came as a result of a unique marketing technique employed by Charles Mason. Rather than selling his product through catalogues, solicited orders, or door-to-door sales, Charles Mason auctioned his product. Until this time, auctions were used only for estate sales and overstock sales.
See our QUAIL BROWN, HERE! See our FRUIT BASKET, HERE!
In 1829, the Minerva Works became known as Charles J. Mason
See our VISTA PINK, HERE!
HISTORY OF MASON'S IRONSTONE
Miles Mason began his career in 1796 as a china importer in London, England. At that time, Europe was actively engaged in trade with the Orient. The Orient was expressly efficient at producing quality china and porcelain and the extravagant designs streaming from the East were immensely popular throughout Europe. As the production of china became more and more heavily influenced by Oriental imports, Miles Mason made the decision to leave his job as a china wholesaler and open his own porcelain producing factory. In 1804, Mason officially announced his exit from the import business with an article in the London Morning Herald.
See our DENMARK BLUE, HERE! See our CHRISTMAS VILLAGE, HERE!
Through his work as a china importer, Mason amassed considerable wealth. Using his acquired wealth as startup capital, he opened a pottery factory at Lane Delph, Fenton. In 1806, Masons factory officially opened and became known as the Minerva Works. Miles Mason solicited his three sons to manage his Fenton factory. Because the Minerva Works was controlled by the Mason family, the factory soon became known as Masons. Miles Masons earliest productions were simply marked with the backstamp M Mason and were heavily influenced by the Oriental porcelain that he imported to London in 1796.
See our REGENCY, HERE! See our VISTA BLUE, HERE!
In 1813, Charles James Mason, the third son of Miles Mason, received a patent for his ironstone china. This hardened earthenware proved useful in the production of daily china, as well as industrial strength tiles used in furnaces, fireplaces, and flooring. Because of its exceptional durability, ironstone became the most successful product sold by the Minerva Works factory. Soon after the creation of ironstone, the Masons name became popular throughout England and Europe. In 1815, Charles Mason married Sarah Spode, the granddaughter of Josiah Spode. As a result of the familial alliance, the Minerva Works acquired a second factory that was being held by the Spode family in Fenton.
See our VISTA BROWN, HERE! See our MANDALAY, HERE!
By 1820, the ironstone productions of the Minerva Works factory had built up an exceptional repertoire of patterns that were Oriental in character but reflected many Italian and English landscapes. In 1822, the Minerva Works was devastated by the death of its founder, Miles Mason. Despite the grief felt by the gepany and its employees, the Minerva Works continued to successfully produce and sell many ironstone patterns. One reason for the immense success of the gepany came as a result of a unique marketing technique employed by Charles Mason. Rather than selling his product through catalogues, solicited orders, or door-to-door sales, Charles Mason auctioned his product. Until this time, auctions were used only for estate sales and overstock sales.
See our QUAIL BROWN, HERE! See our FRUIT BASKET, HERE!
In 1829, the Minerva Works became known as Charles J. Mason
Not all 100% Alpaca is pure alpaca fiber
Learn about the finest alpaca fiber
Aren't all 100% Alpaca garments the same? No, they are NOT!
How gee 100% alpaca sweaters can cost from $19.99 to $400? Because the label: 100% Alpaca, does not specify the QUALITY of alpaca fiber used in that garment.
We all know that:
Alpaca fiber is one of the finest natural fibers on Earth.
We know that it is lightweight and warm.
We know that it is a NO-ITCH fiber.
We know that it is rare.
We even agree that throughout history, only the privileged classes were allowed to wear alpaca garments.
Well, as I was trying to start an online alpaca fashions business, I realized that it was hard to gepete with hundreds of websites that offered so-called 100% alpaca fiber for peanuts. Being of Peruvian orgin, I could not understand this dilemma, as I grew up knowing that alpaca fiber is expensive and as I was determined to show the world the best that Peru has to offer in the alpaca fashion world. So after extensive research andcontacts with numerous alpaca tops manufacturers and alpaca fashion designers, I have gee to one surprising conclusion that allowed me to understand the reason why two (2) supposedly equal products can have such different prices.
I hope that the following information helps you undestand that if you want a FINE alpaca fashion product, it will cost you a significant amount of money.
Buying an alpaca sweater, alpaca shawl, alpaca scarf, alpaca hat should be viewed as an investment, as it is not only a rare and luxurious fiber; it is very strong and resilient and will last for generations.
From Alpaca tops manufacturers:
We are very aware of the lack of knowledge by the consumer, with regards to products made of alpaca fiber. This fact provides a huge window of opportunity for unscrupulous business people to indiscriminately sell products said to be made of 100% baby alpaca at reduced prices. In reality, these lower priced 'Baby Alpaca' products are blends of only 20% alpaca hair and other synthetic fibers, such as acrylic and nylon, which give the 'blend' a soft feel. Occurrences of this nature harm the concept of ALPACA, which affects everyone, but the alpaca industry does little or nothing about this problem, as it is not well organized, or has sufficient means to organize and implement an educational campaign even in the main consumer markets.
Bear in mind that the majority of products are sold as 100% Alpaca when, in fact, the fiber is a blend.
Lower priced blends can cause a garment to itch.
Blends can cause so-called 100% alpaca garments to 'shed', causing, in a great percentage of cases, allergies and/or breathing disgefort.
Cheap blends use shorter lengths of alpaca hair, which make the resulting yarns weaker.
Cheap blends use thicker alpaca hair (of 30-32 microns in diameter) whichcauses the fiber to itch.
Alpaca blends have two (2) purposes:
To lower the price of the yarns gepared to 100% Alpaca hair (Baby Alpaca or FS Alpaca)
To improve the feel of the yarns and resulting garments.
Some of the more costly alpaca fiber blends are gemonly used blends in the high end fashion market and thus the consumer should also expect to pay a higher price. These blends are numerous, but the following are a few of them.
Baby Alpaca - (not a blend) 100% Baby Alpaca. The most expensive of the alpaca fibers. Fiber diameter ranges from 21-22.5 microns. All natural. Natural thermal qualities. Lightweight. Luxuriously soft to the touch. Natural luster. No-Itch. Fluffier than 100% FS Alpaca.
Babysilk - Baby alpaca blended with silk. $32.50/kg. 20% of the blend is silk. 80% is FS Alpaca. Increases the luster of the fiber and the softness of pure alpaca but it is very expensive.
FS Alpaca - (not a blend) 100% FS Alpaca is the real thing, at fiber diameter ranging between 25 and 26.5 microns. Natural thermal qualities. Lightweight. Luxuriously soft to the touch. Natural luster. No-Itch.
Pisac Blend - NM Alpaca blended with silk. $26/kg. Similar characteristics as above.
Urcos Blend - 80% FS Alpaca hair blended with 20% merino wool. $17.50/kg. It costs significantly less than 100% FS Alpaca. It does not feel as soft as 100% FS Alpaca and results in a fluffier garment.
Lari Blend - 50% FS Alpaca / 50% Acrylic. $15.00/kg. The resulting garment will be lighter and softer than a 100% alpaca fiber garment. But the thermal qualities of 100% FS alpaca will not be present.
Also, bear in mind that other blends are available in the market, such as Alpaca/Mohair, Alpaca /Angora, Alpaca/Cashmere, Alpaca/Cotton, etc. But get this, the reason why they started blending alpaca hair with these well known, well respected and expensive fibers is because alpaca is still a fiber that is not well known, yet all the other fibers listed are. These blends were created as a marketing scheme! In this manner, the consumer can start associating Alpaca with other fine natural fibers.
In the alpaca world, remember that the thinner the fiber (less microns) the softer the feel of the garment and the most expensive the product.
Remember that you get what you pay for when you purchase alpaca garments.
Please visit my okay store for a small sampling of Peruvian alpaca fashions at wholesale prices: stores.okay.ge/alpacasweatersperu
Aren't all 100% Alpaca garments the same? No, they are NOT!
How gee 100% alpaca sweaters can cost from $19.99 to $400? Because the label: 100% Alpaca, does not specify the QUALITY of alpaca fiber used in that garment.
We all know that:
Alpaca fiber is one of the finest natural fibers on Earth.
We know that it is lightweight and warm.
We know that it is a NO-ITCH fiber.
We know that it is rare.
We even agree that throughout history, only the privileged classes were allowed to wear alpaca garments.
Well, as I was trying to start an online alpaca fashions business, I realized that it was hard to gepete with hundreds of websites that offered so-called 100% alpaca fiber for peanuts. Being of Peruvian orgin, I could not understand this dilemma, as I grew up knowing that alpaca fiber is expensive and as I was determined to show the world the best that Peru has to offer in the alpaca fashion world. So after extensive research andcontacts with numerous alpaca tops manufacturers and alpaca fashion designers, I have gee to one surprising conclusion that allowed me to understand the reason why two (2) supposedly equal products can have such different prices.
I hope that the following information helps you undestand that if you want a FINE alpaca fashion product, it will cost you a significant amount of money.
Buying an alpaca sweater, alpaca shawl, alpaca scarf, alpaca hat should be viewed as an investment, as it is not only a rare and luxurious fiber; it is very strong and resilient and will last for generations.
From Alpaca tops manufacturers:
We are very aware of the lack of knowledge by the consumer, with regards to products made of alpaca fiber. This fact provides a huge window of opportunity for unscrupulous business people to indiscriminately sell products said to be made of 100% baby alpaca at reduced prices. In reality, these lower priced 'Baby Alpaca' products are blends of only 20% alpaca hair and other synthetic fibers, such as acrylic and nylon, which give the 'blend' a soft feel. Occurrences of this nature harm the concept of ALPACA, which affects everyone, but the alpaca industry does little or nothing about this problem, as it is not well organized, or has sufficient means to organize and implement an educational campaign even in the main consumer markets.
Bear in mind that the majority of products are sold as 100% Alpaca when, in fact, the fiber is a blend.
Lower priced blends can cause a garment to itch.
Blends can cause so-called 100% alpaca garments to 'shed', causing, in a great percentage of cases, allergies and/or breathing disgefort.
Cheap blends use shorter lengths of alpaca hair, which make the resulting yarns weaker.
Cheap blends use thicker alpaca hair (of 30-32 microns in diameter) whichcauses the fiber to itch.
Alpaca blends have two (2) purposes:
To lower the price of the yarns gepared to 100% Alpaca hair (Baby Alpaca or FS Alpaca)
To improve the feel of the yarns and resulting garments.
Some of the more costly alpaca fiber blends are gemonly used blends in the high end fashion market and thus the consumer should also expect to pay a higher price. These blends are numerous, but the following are a few of them.
Baby Alpaca - (not a blend) 100% Baby Alpaca. The most expensive of the alpaca fibers. Fiber diameter ranges from 21-22.5 microns. All natural. Natural thermal qualities. Lightweight. Luxuriously soft to the touch. Natural luster. No-Itch. Fluffier than 100% FS Alpaca.
Babysilk - Baby alpaca blended with silk. $32.50/kg. 20% of the blend is silk. 80% is FS Alpaca. Increases the luster of the fiber and the softness of pure alpaca but it is very expensive.
FS Alpaca - (not a blend) 100% FS Alpaca is the real thing, at fiber diameter ranging between 25 and 26.5 microns. Natural thermal qualities. Lightweight. Luxuriously soft to the touch. Natural luster. No-Itch.
Pisac Blend - NM Alpaca blended with silk. $26/kg. Similar characteristics as above.
Urcos Blend - 80% FS Alpaca hair blended with 20% merino wool. $17.50/kg. It costs significantly less than 100% FS Alpaca. It does not feel as soft as 100% FS Alpaca and results in a fluffier garment.
Lari Blend - 50% FS Alpaca / 50% Acrylic. $15.00/kg. The resulting garment will be lighter and softer than a 100% alpaca fiber garment. But the thermal qualities of 100% FS alpaca will not be present.
Also, bear in mind that other blends are available in the market, such as Alpaca/Mohair, Alpaca /Angora, Alpaca/Cashmere, Alpaca/Cotton, etc. But get this, the reason why they started blending alpaca hair with these well known, well respected and expensive fibers is because alpaca is still a fiber that is not well known, yet all the other fibers listed are. These blends were created as a marketing scheme! In this manner, the consumer can start associating Alpaca with other fine natural fibers.
In the alpaca world, remember that the thinner the fiber (less microns) the softer the feel of the garment and the most expensive the product.
Remember that you get what you pay for when you purchase alpaca garments.
Please visit my okay store for a small sampling of Peruvian alpaca fashions at wholesale prices: stores.okay.ge/alpacasweatersperu
How to Cope When Hubby's Working Long Hours
This guide is coping strategies for stay at home moms when hubby is away working long hours.
This guide was really inspired by my own life. Ever since I've been married my husband has been farming. Through the years of having him gone a lot...(thanks to modern technology), I've gepiled a list of things I like to do with or without my kids to help me get through those long hours and not feel so alone in the task of parenting.
Develop a hobby or learn a new skill.
If Dad doesn't have a cell phone, make sure to get him one so you can be in touch any time of the day when you need to talk. I also find it's great for the kids be able to say 'Goodnight' to daddy or to just talk about their day.
Think of something nice to do for others if you're feeling down. Chances are, there's always someone who's worse off than you. It always lifts your mood and makes your pain feel less when you think of someone else.
Take your kids on trips to the park and let them run wild and play. I like to do this just before naptime or bedtime as it will really wear them out.
Develop relationships with other moms in your area. Chances are, you're not the only one who has a husband that has a crazy schedule. It's so nice to vent to people who really understand.
Make time for yourself. I hear you saying, 'Oh...yeah right!'. I'm serious though. I have a little secret: A babysitter! Get yourself a good babysitter and go out by yourself once or twice a month. Believe me, it's worth the money you'll pay the babysitter. I like to go out with a friend to a movie, dinner, or shopping. But, whatever would be relaxing and feel good to you, do it!
Look into developing a babysitting co-op with other moms in your area. This has saved tons of stress for me to exchange babysitting with other parents so I can run to the grocery store or a doctor's appointment.
Remember, You're WORTH IT! Most times I feel really guilty about buying myself certain things. You don't have to go crazy. But, I find it's really refreshing to buy yourself something nice that maybe you wouldn't otherwise buy. I like to buy shoes or maybe it's a shirt. Maybe you like to read...get a new book. It's really up to you. Mom's don't get a pay check for the work they are doing, just remember YOU'RE WORTH IT. It's okay to do something for yourself every now and then.
Get a make-over, facial, hair cut, tan, or massage! Sometimes doing something for your physical appearance does wonders for your self-esteem.
Keep positive affirmations somewhere where you can see it throughout the day and READ them.
Develop a good or several good friendships. Having a good friend helps the hours to seem less long. I like to talk to them on the phone while I'm cleaning my house or whenever I get a break. It helps me to feel less alone.
EXERCISE!!!! Yes, you heard me! Exercise gets your endorphins going which make you happy happy! Exercise helps me to feel stronger and like I can handle more than what I originally thought Icould.
Take care of your body. I bet your surprised to not see chocolate or gefort food on this list. The truth is that I have been guilty about geforting myself with food, but I promise it's not worth it! For the moment, you might feel good, but in the end, you're going to be more sluggish and tired and won't be able to keep up with those kids as well! Take it from someone who knows.
Have regular check ups with your doctor. Even stress can effect your body poorly and can even cause depression. If you feel youhave been in a rut for awhile, evaluate it with your physician. There may be something medical going on, and you may end up needing medication.
Put the kids to bed early! Yes, you heard me. My kids just know when I say it's bed time it's bed time. It could be 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. They don't know the difference. When they're in bed,take some time for yourself to relax. Allow yourself to watch your favorite show. I like to exercise at this time while watching my favorite show. It's hard to do that when they're awake.
Listen to soothing music. My favorite to listen to is Enya.
Clean your house in the morning and allow yourself the rest of the day to work on your projects or hobbies in between kids, or even let the kids help.
Make some one-on-one time with the kids doing something they like, such as; reading, building blocks, playdough, playing catch, or whatever it is. You will find they will be much more behaved when they are getting individual attention. Remember, they're missing daddy too and need to be reassured that they're not forgotten, just like you.
Take nice vacations every year to some place other than just his 'folks' house or your 'folks' house. Don't get me wrong. That's great to do. But, you need to start building your own memories and going places you'd like to go as well. I like visit family each year, but then we also take time to do our own quick little vacation just for us, even if it's just a camping trip or a trip to the coast.
As part of this guide also remember that just like you are tired, so is your husband. It is not a good time to make major decisions. Be honest and open with eachother sharing your concerns or feelings, but don't point the finger. Listen to each other and validate each other's feelings. Chances are that as badly as you're needing time and attention, so is he. You are both partners working hard. Work together. Be tolerant and sensitive to eachother's needs.
This guide was really inspired by my own life. Ever since I've been married my husband has been farming. Through the years of having him gone a lot...(thanks to modern technology), I've gepiled a list of things I like to do with or without my kids to help me get through those long hours and not feel so alone in the task of parenting.
Develop a hobby or learn a new skill.
If Dad doesn't have a cell phone, make sure to get him one so you can be in touch any time of the day when you need to talk. I also find it's great for the kids be able to say 'Goodnight' to daddy or to just talk about their day.
Think of something nice to do for others if you're feeling down. Chances are, there's always someone who's worse off than you. It always lifts your mood and makes your pain feel less when you think of someone else.
Take your kids on trips to the park and let them run wild and play. I like to do this just before naptime or bedtime as it will really wear them out.
Develop relationships with other moms in your area. Chances are, you're not the only one who has a husband that has a crazy schedule. It's so nice to vent to people who really understand.
Make time for yourself. I hear you saying, 'Oh...yeah right!'. I'm serious though. I have a little secret: A babysitter! Get yourself a good babysitter and go out by yourself once or twice a month. Believe me, it's worth the money you'll pay the babysitter. I like to go out with a friend to a movie, dinner, or shopping. But, whatever would be relaxing and feel good to you, do it!
Look into developing a babysitting co-op with other moms in your area. This has saved tons of stress for me to exchange babysitting with other parents so I can run to the grocery store or a doctor's appointment.
Remember, You're WORTH IT! Most times I feel really guilty about buying myself certain things. You don't have to go crazy. But, I find it's really refreshing to buy yourself something nice that maybe you wouldn't otherwise buy. I like to buy shoes or maybe it's a shirt. Maybe you like to read...get a new book. It's really up to you. Mom's don't get a pay check for the work they are doing, just remember YOU'RE WORTH IT. It's okay to do something for yourself every now and then.
Get a make-over, facial, hair cut, tan, or massage! Sometimes doing something for your physical appearance does wonders for your self-esteem.
Keep positive affirmations somewhere where you can see it throughout the day and READ them.
Develop a good or several good friendships. Having a good friend helps the hours to seem less long. I like to talk to them on the phone while I'm cleaning my house or whenever I get a break. It helps me to feel less alone.
EXERCISE!!!! Yes, you heard me! Exercise gets your endorphins going which make you happy happy! Exercise helps me to feel stronger and like I can handle more than what I originally thought Icould.
Take care of your body. I bet your surprised to not see chocolate or gefort food on this list. The truth is that I have been guilty about geforting myself with food, but I promise it's not worth it! For the moment, you might feel good, but in the end, you're going to be more sluggish and tired and won't be able to keep up with those kids as well! Take it from someone who knows.
Have regular check ups with your doctor. Even stress can effect your body poorly and can even cause depression. If you feel youhave been in a rut for awhile, evaluate it with your physician. There may be something medical going on, and you may end up needing medication.
Put the kids to bed early! Yes, you heard me. My kids just know when I say it's bed time it's bed time. It could be 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. They don't know the difference. When they're in bed,take some time for yourself to relax. Allow yourself to watch your favorite show. I like to exercise at this time while watching my favorite show. It's hard to do that when they're awake.
Listen to soothing music. My favorite to listen to is Enya.
Clean your house in the morning and allow yourself the rest of the day to work on your projects or hobbies in between kids, or even let the kids help.
Make some one-on-one time with the kids doing something they like, such as; reading, building blocks, playdough, playing catch, or whatever it is. You will find they will be much more behaved when they are getting individual attention. Remember, they're missing daddy too and need to be reassured that they're not forgotten, just like you.
Take nice vacations every year to some place other than just his 'folks' house or your 'folks' house. Don't get me wrong. That's great to do. But, you need to start building your own memories and going places you'd like to go as well. I like visit family each year, but then we also take time to do our own quick little vacation just for us, even if it's just a camping trip or a trip to the coast.
As part of this guide also remember that just like you are tired, so is your husband. It is not a good time to make major decisions. Be honest and open with eachother sharing your concerns or feelings, but don't point the finger. Listen to each other and validate each other's feelings. Chances are that as badly as you're needing time and attention, so is he. You are both partners working hard. Work together. Be tolerant and sensitive to eachother's needs.
Silly Listing Errors -- or how NOT to sell your item
We've all seen them -- the Silly Listing Errors (SLEs)that make us giggle, wince, or rush to e-mailfriends with the item number, ANYTHING but bid on the item! Here are some gemon mistakes (and giggle/wincer material) to avoid.
gemon photo mistakes to avoid:
Listings with an out-of-focusphoto
Listings with a photo that's too dark
Listings where the item photographed blends with thebackground better than woodlands camo and your nearesttree
Listings with so many props piled on and around the item the item is obscured. Leave off the fake flowers and autumn foliage
Listings where the seller DOESN'T SHOW THE ITEM LISTED! Why list an item as a sewing machine if you won't bother to move the VCR tapes off the foot pedal, let alonemove the TV off the cabinetyou're theoretically trying to sell? (okay won't let me list the auction number here, sorry)
Listings with a photo with a reflection that revealMUCH MORE INFORMATION THAN WE WANTED TO KNOW about the photographer
gemon descriptive mistakes to avoid:
Listings with cutesy typography , L**KY, L**KY, L**KY (okay thinks I am creating an unauthorized link if I use the usual symbol for at)
Listings with the name or brand of the item being sold mangled (doesn't that make it harder for searchers to find it?) No one who does a search for an item by a specific designer will find it if you can't spellthe designer's name! This istrue for collectables, too.Unless you want to give it away, spilit rite! If it's spelled incorrectly, some folks won't bid because they are concerned the YZZX item may be a knock-off and the misspelling was deliberate so the speller/seller can truthfully claim they never said it was made by that well-known designer YZXX.
Listings with misspellings that verge on perspired creativity or the bazzar
Any mass-produced item described as RARE. If it really is RARE, those bidding will know and bid accordingly.. unless it's listed the week the high-dollar collectorsare all off at an internationalcollectors' convention on another continent. Awise potential buyer will researchthe XYZ collectable item BEFORE bidding, but you needmultiple bidders for success as a seller.. When I see RARE in a listing, I wonder what else the seller is exaggerating and I don't bid.
Any listing with SHABBY CHICK. (I'll stop there).
Any listing describing the wonderful detailing/decals/finish/woodgrain/hand-rubbed finishof the item in the picture, which is COVERED by accessories/a footpedal/decorations/packing materialsthat both obscure and can easily damage the item.
Listings with descriptions in black print on a dark blue background, florescent blue on a red background that makes the type visually vibrate, and worst of all, blocks of type designed to flash while you're trying to read!
Telling a potential bidder who asks politely fora legible description that I'm the seller and I can read it
Scolding every potential bidder for two paragraphs because of the inconsiderate you-know-what non-payer who ruined a great auction and wasted waaay too much of your time a hundred feedbacks ago. Justlist their names. Then we'll know to avoid them, too, and you can skip the ranting aimed at the rest of us who DO pay.
gemon procedural mistakes to avoid:
Starting bids by the seller that are higher than the average winning bid for a similar item.
Failure to research the previous sales for a similar item before deciding on a starting bid.
Starting bids that are gepletely out of touch with reality (i.e. US $39,700.00 more than the most expensivesimilar item I've ever seen listed on E-Bay in one case, with absolutelyzero explanation and next to no description.And no, it wasn't a listing mistake.)What's with that?
Listing a new photo angle of the same item when relisting, while eliminating the originalphotos. Sure doesn't give me a warmy fuzzy...
Anyway, that's my own two cents from the buyers' side.Thanks to all the good sellers who make buying things on e-Bay a pleasure. I hope my semi-tongue-in-cheek observations will be just as semi-usefulwhen it gees to avoiding sillylistingerrors.
And the usual disclaimer, all opinions expressed here are my own. Suggestions on what to do with non-baying pidders may or may not align with okay policy -- since I'm not a seller, I don't know. Happy bidding to all!
gemon photo mistakes to avoid:
Listings with an out-of-focusphoto
Listings with a photo that's too dark
Listings where the item photographed blends with thebackground better than woodlands camo and your nearesttree
Listings with so many props piled on and around the item the item is obscured. Leave off the fake flowers and autumn foliage
Listings where the seller DOESN'T SHOW THE ITEM LISTED! Why list an item as a sewing machine if you won't bother to move the VCR tapes off the foot pedal, let alonemove the TV off the cabinetyou're theoretically trying to sell? (okay won't let me list the auction number here, sorry)
Listings with a photo with a reflection that revealMUCH MORE INFORMATION THAN WE WANTED TO KNOW about the photographer
gemon descriptive mistakes to avoid:
Listings with cutesy typography , L**KY, L**KY, L**KY (okay thinks I am creating an unauthorized link if I use the usual symbol for at)
Listings with the name or brand of the item being sold mangled (doesn't that make it harder for searchers to find it?) No one who does a search for an item by a specific designer will find it if you can't spellthe designer's name! This istrue for collectables, too.Unless you want to give it away, spilit rite! If it's spelled incorrectly, some folks won't bid because they are concerned the YZZX item may be a knock-off and the misspelling was deliberate so the speller/seller can truthfully claim they never said it was made by that well-known designer YZXX.
Listings with misspellings that verge on perspired creativity or the bazzar
Any mass-produced item described as RARE. If it really is RARE, those bidding will know and bid accordingly.. unless it's listed the week the high-dollar collectorsare all off at an internationalcollectors' convention on another continent. Awise potential buyer will researchthe XYZ collectable item BEFORE bidding, but you needmultiple bidders for success as a seller.. When I see RARE in a listing, I wonder what else the seller is exaggerating and I don't bid.
Any listing with SHABBY CHICK. (I'll stop there).
Any listing describing the wonderful detailing/decals/finish/woodgrain/hand-rubbed finishof the item in the picture, which is COVERED by accessories/a footpedal/decorations/packing materialsthat both obscure and can easily damage the item.
Listings with descriptions in black print on a dark blue background, florescent blue on a red background that makes the type visually vibrate, and worst of all, blocks of type designed to flash while you're trying to read!
Telling a potential bidder who asks politely fora legible description that I'm the seller and I can read it
Scolding every potential bidder for two paragraphs because of the inconsiderate you-know-what non-payer who ruined a great auction and wasted waaay too much of your time a hundred feedbacks ago. Justlist their names. Then we'll know to avoid them, too, and you can skip the ranting aimed at the rest of us who DO pay.
gemon procedural mistakes to avoid:
Starting bids by the seller that are higher than the average winning bid for a similar item.
Failure to research the previous sales for a similar item before deciding on a starting bid.
Starting bids that are gepletely out of touch with reality (i.e. US $39,700.00 more than the most expensivesimilar item I've ever seen listed on E-Bay in one case, with absolutelyzero explanation and next to no description.And no, it wasn't a listing mistake.)What's with that?
Listing a new photo angle of the same item when relisting, while eliminating the originalphotos. Sure doesn't give me a warmy fuzzy...
Anyway, that's my own two cents from the buyers' side.Thanks to all the good sellers who make buying things on e-Bay a pleasure. I hope my semi-tongue-in-cheek observations will be just as semi-usefulwhen it gees to avoiding sillylistingerrors.
And the usual disclaimer, all opinions expressed here are my own. Suggestions on what to do with non-baying pidders may or may not align with okay policy -- since I'm not a seller, I don't know. Happy bidding to all!
Violin Maintenance
What you can do
Protection
Always keep the instrument and bow in its case when it is not being
used. Make sure the bow is securely fastened in the proper place and
position, and that it has been loosened properly.
Temperature
String instruments are very sensitive to temperature changes and
extremes of heat and cold. The instrument should never be exposed to
sudden changes in temperature. It must not be exposed directly to the
sun - either in or out of the case. It should be stored away from heat
registers or air conditioning outlets. Never leave a string instrument
in a car.
Humidity
String instruments are sensitive to variations and extremes in
humidity. A humidifier will diminish the chances of low humidity
cracking your instrument and it will also less likely to go out of
adjustment in dry winter conditions with humidifier use. The humidifier
should be checked daily for moisture during the winter months.
Instruments that are maintained with wet humidifiers in the cold months
will be much more stable and need fewer repairs in the long run. If you don't have a humidifier, we have a plentiful supply to protect you.
Cleaning
Rosin should be removed immediately after the instrument is played. Use
a soft, lint-free cotton cloth to clean the body of the instrument. Do
not use any polishes, furniture cleaners or solvents that contain
ingredients such as alcohol, turpentine or xylene to clean the
instrument. A. Cavallo Violins, LLC offers a very safe, water-based
polish that can be applied safely to any violin varnish.
Bridge
The feet of the bridge should usually be aligned with the inner notches
cut in the F holes. The side of the bridge closest to the tailpiece
should be kept perpendicular to the body of the instrument, and the top
edge should be parallel to the end of the fingerboard. Each time the
instrument is tuned, the top edge of the bridge tends to be pulled
forward towards the fingerboard a little. It is important to check the
position of the bridge frequently. If the bridge is neglected, it can
warp or even break. If the tilt or thestraighness of the upper edge of
the bridge requires adjusting, carefully adjust the bridge by pushing
or pulling on the top edge between the A and E and D and G strings with
the thumb and first finger of each hand while holding the instrument
firmly. Gently move the top of the bridge to the proper position. If
you have problems, call us and we will be glad to help you.
Strings
Old strings are lifeless and dull sounding. They should be replaced
with new strings. The finest instrument will not sound good with poor
strings. The strings should be replaced one at a time. Check the
bridge's adjustment, guarding against the to edge being pulled toward
the fingerboard excessively while bring the new strings up to pitch
gradually.
Fine Tuners
If your tuner has a lever under the tailpiece, be careful that the
lever does not touch the top of the instrument. This can seriously
damage the wood. To reduce the depression of the lever, simply turn the
screw to the left (counterclockwise) then raise the pitch with the peg.
Fine tuners may be lubricated with a nut oil such as walnut, almond or
olive. Put a little on a rag or paper towel and lightly apply it to the
threads of the screw.
Chinrest
If the chinrest is loose or touching the tailpiece, it may produce a
buzzing sound. It can be made firm by inserting a chinrest key in the
small hole in each chinrest barrel. Turn the barrels to tighten the
chinrest just enough to secure the rest firmly. Do not over-tighten the
chinrest!
Pegs
Pegs should work smoothly and hold the string tension. If they are not
working properly, the first thing that should be checked is how the
strings wind around the peg. The pegs should be wound so that the last
part of the string is closest to the head of the peg side of the peg
box, so the string tends to pull the peg's conical shape into the peg
hole. If the pegs do not turn smoothly, application of Hill peg
gepound is usually effective. Over time, all pegs and the peg box
begee worn. When this happens, it is time to bring the instrument to a
professional repairperson for refitting.
Insurance
Insurance is important! Students can insure their instruments through
their parents' homeowners insurance, but be certain the insurance
covers you for normal risks string instruments encounter. Very good
policies are also available as group policies through professional
organizations such as the American Federation of Musicians, American
String Teachers, and the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Repairs that should be done by a professional repairmanBow Rehairing
The hair's ability to grip the strings and produce a beautiful sound is
reduced following repeated use and time. Your bow should be rehaired at
least twice a year if you use your instrument every day. Inexpert bow
rehairs can damage the bow, so always take care to have your bow
rehaired by an expert.
Care of the Fingerboard
Over time the fingerboard will develop grooves where the strings are
depressed. Grooves prevent free vibration of the strings. The board
needs to have an adequate concave dip to it. Your repair professional
will also check the grooves in the nut, or far end, of the fingerboard.
A properly shaped fingerboard can make playing in tune much easier and
prevent buzzes.
Summer and Winter Bridges
In warm seasons the tops of many string instruments tend to swell
upward due to the increase in humidity. This can raise the bridge and
lifts the strings too high above the fingerboard for gefortable
playing. A lower bridge may be needed. In cold weather the opposite is
true - the top of the instrument will be at its lowest level. A higher
bridge may be required. Otherwise the strings will be too close to the
fingerboard to permit free vibration. See your professional
repairperson for help with these problems. Many cellists and a few
violinists and violists have winter and summer bridges and sound posts.
Sound Posts
If the post was fitted during cold weather, it may be too short for
summer use when the top of the instrument raises. Conversely, if it was
fitted in very warm weather, it may be too long for winter use when the
top is lower. Unless the sound post fits properly, the tone will be not
be optimal, and an improperly fittted post can damage an instrument. If
it happens to fall or move, loosen the string tension and ask your
repair professional to reposition it.
Cracks and Openings
If your string instrument develops cracks or openings, do not glue it
at home! Improper gluing can damage the instrument and not be
reversible. Most gluing can be done overnight. The sooner you bring
your instrument in to us, the easier it is for us to repair it.
Protection
Always keep the instrument and bow in its case when it is not being
used. Make sure the bow is securely fastened in the proper place and
position, and that it has been loosened properly.
Temperature
String instruments are very sensitive to temperature changes and
extremes of heat and cold. The instrument should never be exposed to
sudden changes in temperature. It must not be exposed directly to the
sun - either in or out of the case. It should be stored away from heat
registers or air conditioning outlets. Never leave a string instrument
in a car.
Humidity
String instruments are sensitive to variations and extremes in
humidity. A humidifier will diminish the chances of low humidity
cracking your instrument and it will also less likely to go out of
adjustment in dry winter conditions with humidifier use. The humidifier
should be checked daily for moisture during the winter months.
Instruments that are maintained with wet humidifiers in the cold months
will be much more stable and need fewer repairs in the long run. If you don't have a humidifier, we have a plentiful supply to protect you.
Cleaning
Rosin should be removed immediately after the instrument is played. Use
a soft, lint-free cotton cloth to clean the body of the instrument. Do
not use any polishes, furniture cleaners or solvents that contain
ingredients such as alcohol, turpentine or xylene to clean the
instrument. A. Cavallo Violins, LLC offers a very safe, water-based
polish that can be applied safely to any violin varnish.
Bridge
The feet of the bridge should usually be aligned with the inner notches
cut in the F holes. The side of the bridge closest to the tailpiece
should be kept perpendicular to the body of the instrument, and the top
edge should be parallel to the end of the fingerboard. Each time the
instrument is tuned, the top edge of the bridge tends to be pulled
forward towards the fingerboard a little. It is important to check the
position of the bridge frequently. If the bridge is neglected, it can
warp or even break. If the tilt or thestraighness of the upper edge of
the bridge requires adjusting, carefully adjust the bridge by pushing
or pulling on the top edge between the A and E and D and G strings with
the thumb and first finger of each hand while holding the instrument
firmly. Gently move the top of the bridge to the proper position. If
you have problems, call us and we will be glad to help you.
Strings
Old strings are lifeless and dull sounding. They should be replaced
with new strings. The finest instrument will not sound good with poor
strings. The strings should be replaced one at a time. Check the
bridge's adjustment, guarding against the to edge being pulled toward
the fingerboard excessively while bring the new strings up to pitch
gradually.
Fine Tuners
If your tuner has a lever under the tailpiece, be careful that the
lever does not touch the top of the instrument. This can seriously
damage the wood. To reduce the depression of the lever, simply turn the
screw to the left (counterclockwise) then raise the pitch with the peg.
Fine tuners may be lubricated with a nut oil such as walnut, almond or
olive. Put a little on a rag or paper towel and lightly apply it to the
threads of the screw.
Chinrest
If the chinrest is loose or touching the tailpiece, it may produce a
buzzing sound. It can be made firm by inserting a chinrest key in the
small hole in each chinrest barrel. Turn the barrels to tighten the
chinrest just enough to secure the rest firmly. Do not over-tighten the
chinrest!
Pegs
Pegs should work smoothly and hold the string tension. If they are not
working properly, the first thing that should be checked is how the
strings wind around the peg. The pegs should be wound so that the last
part of the string is closest to the head of the peg side of the peg
box, so the string tends to pull the peg's conical shape into the peg
hole. If the pegs do not turn smoothly, application of Hill peg
gepound is usually effective. Over time, all pegs and the peg box
begee worn. When this happens, it is time to bring the instrument to a
professional repairperson for refitting.
Insurance
Insurance is important! Students can insure their instruments through
their parents' homeowners insurance, but be certain the insurance
covers you for normal risks string instruments encounter. Very good
policies are also available as group policies through professional
organizations such as the American Federation of Musicians, American
String Teachers, and the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
Repairs that should be done by a professional repairmanBow Rehairing
The hair's ability to grip the strings and produce a beautiful sound is
reduced following repeated use and time. Your bow should be rehaired at
least twice a year if you use your instrument every day. Inexpert bow
rehairs can damage the bow, so always take care to have your bow
rehaired by an expert.
Care of the Fingerboard
Over time the fingerboard will develop grooves where the strings are
depressed. Grooves prevent free vibration of the strings. The board
needs to have an adequate concave dip to it. Your repair professional
will also check the grooves in the nut, or far end, of the fingerboard.
A properly shaped fingerboard can make playing in tune much easier and
prevent buzzes.
Summer and Winter Bridges
In warm seasons the tops of many string instruments tend to swell
upward due to the increase in humidity. This can raise the bridge and
lifts the strings too high above the fingerboard for gefortable
playing. A lower bridge may be needed. In cold weather the opposite is
true - the top of the instrument will be at its lowest level. A higher
bridge may be required. Otherwise the strings will be too close to the
fingerboard to permit free vibration. See your professional
repairperson for help with these problems. Many cellists and a few
violinists and violists have winter and summer bridges and sound posts.
Sound Posts
If the post was fitted during cold weather, it may be too short for
summer use when the top of the instrument raises. Conversely, if it was
fitted in very warm weather, it may be too long for winter use when the
top is lower. Unless the sound post fits properly, the tone will be not
be optimal, and an improperly fittted post can damage an instrument. If
it happens to fall or move, loosen the string tension and ask your
repair professional to reposition it.
Cracks and Openings
If your string instrument develops cracks or openings, do not glue it
at home! Improper gluing can damage the instrument and not be
reversible. Most gluing can be done overnight. The sooner you bring
your instrument in to us, the easier it is for us to repair it.
How to measure for tall riding boots.
When measuring for tall riding boots, put on the breeches and socks you'll most often use. You'll need a cloth tape measure, and it can be useful if you can enlist a friend to take measurements for you:
1. Shoe/boot size will be the same as for any other pair of footwear. (Foot width options are generally not available unless you are buying custom boots.)
2. Calf width should be measured around your calf at the widest point, adding 1/8" for gefort. ***If you are prone to weight fluctuations, consider adding a bit more to this measurement.
3. Boot height should be measured sitting in a chair with your knees at a right angle. Measure boot height from the floor by your heel to the bony knob on the outside of your knee and add at least 1/2". This step is particularly important. If you do not add that additional 1/2" to the boot height, your boots will fit fine when new, but as the ankle of the new boot softens and creases with wear, the boot height will decrease by approximately that amount. Properly measured boots will be ungefortable at first as the boot tops will hit the tendons behind the knee. This is perfectly normal.
***If you are looking at a chart of boot sizing from a particular manufacturer, keep in mind that many tall riding boots are "Spanish Cut". This means that the outside of the boot will be taller than the inside, and gives the illusion that your leg is longer than is actually the case. In practical terms, know that if you are looking at a Spanish cut boot, the height measurement given may be as much as 1 1/4" taller than the actual boot height measured behind the knee. If you're unsure, ask!
4. Boot top: While you're still sitting, measure around your leg just below the knee. If this measurement is significantly smaller that your calf measurement, we suggest that you consider purchasing one of the many boots which offer an elastic gusset at the boot top. This expands to your calf width when you draw on the boot, and contracts for a better fit when your boots are fully "on".
1. Shoe/boot size will be the same as for any other pair of footwear. (Foot width options are generally not available unless you are buying custom boots.)
2. Calf width should be measured around your calf at the widest point, adding 1/8" for gefort. ***If you are prone to weight fluctuations, consider adding a bit more to this measurement.
3. Boot height should be measured sitting in a chair with your knees at a right angle. Measure boot height from the floor by your heel to the bony knob on the outside of your knee and add at least 1/2". This step is particularly important. If you do not add that additional 1/2" to the boot height, your boots will fit fine when new, but as the ankle of the new boot softens and creases with wear, the boot height will decrease by approximately that amount. Properly measured boots will be ungefortable at first as the boot tops will hit the tendons behind the knee. This is perfectly normal.
***If you are looking at a chart of boot sizing from a particular manufacturer, keep in mind that many tall riding boots are "Spanish Cut". This means that the outside of the boot will be taller than the inside, and gives the illusion that your leg is longer than is actually the case. In practical terms, know that if you are looking at a Spanish cut boot, the height measurement given may be as much as 1 1/4" taller than the actual boot height measured behind the knee. If you're unsure, ask!
4. Boot top: While you're still sitting, measure around your leg just below the knee. If this measurement is significantly smaller that your calf measurement, we suggest that you consider purchasing one of the many boots which offer an elastic gusset at the boot top. This expands to your calf width when you draw on the boot, and contracts for a better fit when your boots are fully "on".
How to Print 2 Shipping Labels Per Sheet Using Paypal
How to Print 2 Shipping Labels Per Sheet Using Paypal
Now if you use the paypal shipping center to create your labels, you can turn off the option to print the "receipt" portion (second half of the page) that would normally print on the second label of each sheet.
Log into your paypal account, and click on "profile", then under SELLING PREFERENCES click "shipping preferences", then click the link that says "Edit Printer Settings" found under U.S. Postal Service preferences",
Now if you use the paypal shipping center to create your labels, you can turn off the option to print the "receipt" portion (second half of the page) that would normally print on the second label of each sheet.
Log into your paypal account, and click on "profile", then under SELLING PREFERENCES click "shipping preferences", then click the link that says "Edit Printer Settings" found under U.S. Postal Service preferences",
Tool Time...Antique Tools A Quick Reference Guide
First thing First! What deems an item an Antique...
The definition of antique varies from source to source, product to product and year to year. But, some time-tested definitions of antique deserve consideration...
An item which is at least 75 years old and is collected or desirable due to rarity, condition, utility, or some other unique feature.
Motor vehicles, in contrast, are considered antiques in the U.S. if older than 25 years, and some electronic gadgets of more recent vintage may be considered antiques.
Any piece of furniture or decorative object or the like produced in a former period and valuable because of its beauty or rarity.
Antiques are usually objects which show some degree of craftsmanship, or a certain attention to design such as a desk or the early automobile. In a consumer society, an antique is above all an object whose atypical construction and age give it a market value superior to similar objects of recent manufacture. Any historical museum makes a considerable use of antiques in order to illustrate historical events and give them a practical context.
Collecting Tools - An Overlooked Market...
Some antique tools have considerable appeal as objects d'art. Beautiful designs, ingenious craftsmanship, and exotic materials are sometimes used in tools - and these happen to be the sorts of tools that hold higher value to collectors today.
Tool Time! Desirable Tools....
Categories of tools range from the broad - planes, rules, braces, hammers, etc. to the specific - planes made by the Gage gepany of Vineland, New Jersey for example. people who are new to the hobby, you should know that there are many good modern reference books that will guide you in your search, as well as many reprints of the catalogs in which these tools were originally offered. It is necessary to learn the differences between various tools, their history and the history of their makers. Often tools will exhibit differences contrasting the different locations of their makers, or different features contrasting different time periods. The following are some ways to begin collecting tools:
Tools of a specific gepany or maker - for example, L. Bailey Victor tools, Seneca Falls Tool gepany tools, Miller's Falls tools, Disston Saws, Chelor planes, etc.
Tools of a specific type - hammers, braces, axes, saws, patented planes, transitional planes, treadle-powered machines, etc.
Tools of a specific period - tools from 1850-1900, post WWII era tools, etc.
Tools from a specific place - Scottish tools, tools from Massachusetts makers, etc.
Tools of a specific occupation - cooper's tools, machinist tools, watchmaker's tools, garden tools.
A gebination of one or more of the above categories -- for example, one each of a specific type of Stanley tool, i.e. all Stanley saws, all Stanley marking gauges, all Stanley planes, etc.
Tools that show how a specific idea progressed over time, for example tools tracing the development of the plane's adjusting mechanisms, or tools showing how an early patent was bought out and developed by another gepany.
Tool advertising and catalogs.
So, go into your garage or attic (today) and start looking at your tools! If you find a "gem" of a tool -don't clean it! If it has awood handle -don't sand it!
Jewelry
Other guides relating to jewelry and gemstone buyingwhich you may find helpful are as follows:
Gold Prices and Gold Jewelry
The definition of antique varies from source to source, product to product and year to year. But, some time-tested definitions of antique deserve consideration...
An item which is at least 75 years old and is collected or desirable due to rarity, condition, utility, or some other unique feature.
Motor vehicles, in contrast, are considered antiques in the U.S. if older than 25 years, and some electronic gadgets of more recent vintage may be considered antiques.
Any piece of furniture or decorative object or the like produced in a former period and valuable because of its beauty or rarity.
Antiques are usually objects which show some degree of craftsmanship, or a certain attention to design such as a desk or the early automobile. In a consumer society, an antique is above all an object whose atypical construction and age give it a market value superior to similar objects of recent manufacture. Any historical museum makes a considerable use of antiques in order to illustrate historical events and give them a practical context.
Collecting Tools - An Overlooked Market...
Some antique tools have considerable appeal as objects d'art. Beautiful designs, ingenious craftsmanship, and exotic materials are sometimes used in tools - and these happen to be the sorts of tools that hold higher value to collectors today.
Tool Time! Desirable Tools....
Categories of tools range from the broad - planes, rules, braces, hammers, etc. to the specific - planes made by the Gage gepany of Vineland, New Jersey for example. people who are new to the hobby, you should know that there are many good modern reference books that will guide you in your search, as well as many reprints of the catalogs in which these tools were originally offered. It is necessary to learn the differences between various tools, their history and the history of their makers. Often tools will exhibit differences contrasting the different locations of their makers, or different features contrasting different time periods. The following are some ways to begin collecting tools:
Tools of a specific gepany or maker - for example, L. Bailey Victor tools, Seneca Falls Tool gepany tools, Miller's Falls tools, Disston Saws, Chelor planes, etc.
Tools of a specific type - hammers, braces, axes, saws, patented planes, transitional planes, treadle-powered machines, etc.
Tools of a specific period - tools from 1850-1900, post WWII era tools, etc.
Tools from a specific place - Scottish tools, tools from Massachusetts makers, etc.
Tools of a specific occupation - cooper's tools, machinist tools, watchmaker's tools, garden tools.
A gebination of one or more of the above categories -- for example, one each of a specific type of Stanley tool, i.e. all Stanley saws, all Stanley marking gauges, all Stanley planes, etc.
Tools that show how a specific idea progressed over time, for example tools tracing the development of the plane's adjusting mechanisms, or tools showing how an early patent was bought out and developed by another gepany.
Tool advertising and catalogs.
So, go into your garage or attic (today) and start looking at your tools! If you find a "gem" of a tool -don't clean it! If it has awood handle -don't sand it!
Jewelry
Other guides relating to jewelry and gemstone buyingwhich you may find helpful are as follows:
Gold Prices and Gold Jewelry
Search for the BEST time to list your TMX ELMO!!
I have been trying to get a read on how many Elmo TMX's have been sold and are selling on okay. Well, people are throwing all kinds of numbers out there, due to the fact that they have done a search by inputing TMX Elmo in the search area. Actually, you have to subtract all of the other types of items that are being sold with TMX Elmo in the title. This is what I came up with to put in the start new search area
Fit and size guide for Breezies
Most of you have heard that the majority of women are wearing the wrong bra size. Here is an easy way to find your correct bra size. All you need is a tape measure.
With your bra on:
Measure below your bust; top of rib cage. Even number add 4 inches. Odd number add 3 inches. This is your band size.
Now measure the fullest part of the bust. The difference in this measurement and your band size is your cup size.
Inch(es) 1 2 3 4 5
Cup Size A B C D DD
Note: pull the tape measure firmly, but not tight for your true size.
Breezies offers a line of bras designed by women for women. This is a Mother
With your bra on:
Measure below your bust; top of rib cage. Even number add 4 inches. Odd number add 3 inches. This is your band size.
Now measure the fullest part of the bust. The difference in this measurement and your band size is your cup size.
Inch(es) 1 2 3 4 5
Cup Size A B C D DD
Note: pull the tape measure firmly, but not tight for your true size.
Breezies offers a line of bras designed by women for women. This is a Mother
Rio Nitrus Battery Installation
This guide is intended to help people better understand the process of disassembling a Rio Nitrus for the purpose of replacing it's battery. I have not found instructions on the net to describe the process of disassembling a Rio Nitrus so I disassembled a nitrus I have. The process I went through was as follows.
There is 1 screw on the back of the nitrus which you would remove using a Torx driver.
Once the screw is out, the back of the unit is only held on with 4 plastic clips (which are attached to the back cover) 2 on each side of the cover.
The back can be gently taken off however care is needed as the back cover is stuck to the unit via double sided adhesive which is affixed to a metal plate on the backside of the LCD area. I opened it by gently inserting a small screwdriver between this back plate and the back cover.
Once the back cover is off, the battery is clearly exposed.
To remove the battery, again you need to be gentle. The battery is affixed to the inside of the unit by double sided tape. The tape is not the issue. Sandwiched between the battery and the double side tape is a small temperature sensor that is soldered into the PCB. You need to gently separate the battery from the tape without damaging the temperature sensor or tearing its flying leads from the main board.
Once the battery is off the tape, simply unconnect the battery. The battery has a connector at the end of the leads, which you just disconnect.
Plug the new battery in, place the battery on the double side tape and reattach the back cover.
New battery should be charged for at least 8, preferably 24 hours before use.
Overall, the process is fairly straight forward however care must be taken especially around the double side tape/ battery/ temp sensor.
Please note that we are not responsible for any damages that may occur and that if users who are not gefortable performing this operation, should solicite the help of a certified service bureau.
There is 1 screw on the back of the nitrus which you would remove using a Torx driver.
Once the screw is out, the back of the unit is only held on with 4 plastic clips (which are attached to the back cover) 2 on each side of the cover.
The back can be gently taken off however care is needed as the back cover is stuck to the unit via double sided adhesive which is affixed to a metal plate on the backside of the LCD area. I opened it by gently inserting a small screwdriver between this back plate and the back cover.
Once the back cover is off, the battery is clearly exposed.
To remove the battery, again you need to be gentle. The battery is affixed to the inside of the unit by double sided tape. The tape is not the issue. Sandwiched between the battery and the double side tape is a small temperature sensor that is soldered into the PCB. You need to gently separate the battery from the tape without damaging the temperature sensor or tearing its flying leads from the main board.
Once the battery is off the tape, simply unconnect the battery. The battery has a connector at the end of the leads, which you just disconnect.
Plug the new battery in, place the battery on the double side tape and reattach the back cover.
New battery should be charged for at least 8, preferably 24 hours before use.
Overall, the process is fairly straight forward however care must be taken especially around the double side tape/ battery/ temp sensor.
Please note that we are not responsible for any damages that may occur and that if users who are not gefortable performing this operation, should solicite the help of a certified service bureau.
Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Boys, Girls...on s
Are you tired of filling your stockings with the same things every year? Yes, there may be a certain element of tradition involved, but after receiving a small red plastic stapler every year for 12 years, I could only shake my head and laugh.
As a mom myself, I am tired of filling stockings with cheap, easily breakable "junk" every year for my children. It's not something I think a great deal about. I usually devote one trip for stockings and grab things as I see them. Therefore,I put a great deal of thought into my children's stockings this year and wanted to pass on these ideas.Let me add that everything, including the stocking can be found on okay, which can make it very easy:
Christmas Stockings
Also, let me say if you have more than one child, buy a pack of something and split it between the two stockings. They will be happy they are getting the same things and you can save some money.
Please, please, please let me know if you found this helpful by voting yes at the end!!! And feel free to contact me if you have an idea that you would like added.
Boys or Girls
spinning toothbrushes - can be found in different characters (Disney Cars, Disney Princesses, Atronauts - to name a few we have had in our house)
toothpaste to go with aforementioned toothbrushes
bath fizzies - color changers for the water (See Examples)
bubble bath
bath crayons (See Examples)
flashlights See Examples)
chewing gum
CDs (Veggietales Cds)
DVDs
character socks or just nifty socks (Socks with Disney Characters)
harmonica (See Examples)
disposable camera(See Examples)
marbles:
Girls
lip gloss or chap stick
ponytail holder
barrettes (See Examples)
nail polish (real or pretend) See Examples
costume jewelry
bead necklaces
sparkly bracelets
earrings (clip-on or pierced)
doll house furniture (See Examples):
Boys
Thomas the Train vehicles (See Examples):
Matchbox cars (See Examples)
Lego Sets (the little ones)
little Transformers:
shaving cream (my son loves to play with it in the bath and pretend to shave)
As a mom myself, I am tired of filling stockings with cheap, easily breakable "junk" every year for my children. It's not something I think a great deal about. I usually devote one trip for stockings and grab things as I see them. Therefore,I put a great deal of thought into my children's stockings this year and wanted to pass on these ideas.Let me add that everything, including the stocking can be found on okay, which can make it very easy:
Christmas Stockings
Also, let me say if you have more than one child, buy a pack of something and split it between the two stockings. They will be happy they are getting the same things and you can save some money.
Please, please, please let me know if you found this helpful by voting yes at the end!!! And feel free to contact me if you have an idea that you would like added.
Boys or Girls
spinning toothbrushes - can be found in different characters (Disney Cars, Disney Princesses, Atronauts - to name a few we have had in our house)
toothpaste to go with aforementioned toothbrushes
bath fizzies - color changers for the water (See Examples)
bubble bath
bath crayons (See Examples)
flashlights See Examples)
chewing gum
CDs (Veggietales Cds)
DVDs
character socks or just nifty socks (Socks with Disney Characters)
harmonica (See Examples)
disposable camera(See Examples)
marbles:
Girls
lip gloss or chap stick
ponytail holder
barrettes (See Examples)
nail polish (real or pretend) See Examples
costume jewelry
bead necklaces
sparkly bracelets
earrings (clip-on or pierced)
doll house furniture (See Examples):
Boys
Thomas the Train vehicles (See Examples):
Matchbox cars (See Examples)
Lego Sets (the little ones)
little Transformers:
shaving cream (my son loves to play with it in the bath and pretend to shave)
Dior forever and ever
Forever and Ever is a limited edition Dior perfume sold only in Duty Free Stores. Although the picture on the box changed over the years, the perfumeis still a very nice, soft floral scent. However,there are many fakes.
This is what the box of the last limited edition looks like this:
Dior NEVER had thispictureontheperfume. It's a FAKE:
The first edition looked like this:
The fake version of this editionis difficult to tell, because thecolor is just slightly darker (more purple rather than pink) than on the original. I purchased one like that -- and immediately threw it away. It is not only fake, it stinks awfully! I also doubt thatanyone still has it to sell, because this edition is over 12 years old and it was a limited edition only sold in Duty Free Shops for a year.
This is what the box of the last limited edition looks like this:
Dior NEVER had thispictureontheperfume. It's a FAKE:
The first edition looked like this:
The fake version of this editionis difficult to tell, because thecolor is just slightly darker (more purple rather than pink) than on the original. I purchased one like that -- and immediately threw it away. It is not only fake, it stinks awfully! I also doubt thatanyone still has it to sell, because this edition is over 12 years old and it was a limited edition only sold in Duty Free Shops for a year.
Identifying SYRACUSE CHINA Restaurant Patterns Guide 6
Identifying SYRACUSE CHINA Restaurant Patterns Guide # 6
Syracuse China began operation in 1871 as Onondaga Pottery gepany (OPCO)
Syracuse China began operation in 1871 as Onondaga Pottery gepany (OPCO)
Buying Hickey Freeman and H. Freeman and Sons Suits
I have often seen men's suits for sale on okay that are listed as Hickey Freeman. Often times, these suits are actually H. Freeman and Sons. What's the difference? A lot, and not a lot. They are both high quality American made suits. Hickey makes their suits in Rochester, NY. H. Freeman has a factory in Philadelphia. Both use high quality fabrics and sew much of the garments by hand. Both manufacturers make traditional American style suits. They are both old line traditional suit manufacturers. Both are sold in higher end men's stores and department stores.
How to set up a home salon
Setting up a home salon will save you thousands of dollars if you do it right. First thing is to get all education and licensing needed either by state, local and city. Some governments require extra permits, please look into all of the above listed. Next you will need a very good accountant. Remember home stylists, you have to pay your taxes in order to collect social security in the long run. Also, a good accountant will know what's taxable and what is not by having an in home salon. Make sure that your salon is set apart from the rest of your living quarters. You wouldn't want the family watching their favorite program while your wrapping a perm in the middle of the same room, and it's easier to take certain tax credits if the salon is 'off to itself'. Next will be your furnishings, you don't have to purchase the top of the line, state of the art equipment, but nice will do just fine. Keep it bright, welgeing and clean, remember the first impression. Please add a shampoo bowl. There are still many home stylist who will shampoo hair in the kitchen or bathroom sink, remember, this is a profession and this is also your livelyhood. Some clients will actually gag at the thought of leaning over into a kitchen sink to get their hair shampooed, and some will cringe at your 'professional prices' after they had to ungefortably lean over into a non professional sink. Have a separate phone line in your salon, there is a tax break for that! Make sure you have all supplies needed on hand at all times, set aside 1 day per week to do all of your shopping for the salon. Either make a list or take your appointment book with you.
That's it! You're all ready to start reaping the benefits of a home salon without extra overhead a gemercial salon would bring.
That's it! You're all ready to start reaping the benefits of a home salon without extra overhead a gemercial salon would bring.
101 Auction Secrets Revealed! Part III of Full e-book
The whole e-book in this 5-part guide! (Part III of V) Tips 51 - 65You might be looking at e-books and wondering "Is it really worth it?" E-books advertising auction secrets that increase sales, item hits and more. One day i bought an e-book entitled 101 Auction Secrets Revealed! and read it. I found most of the information very helpful, and at the end there was a line that read: Distribution Rules - reprint and distribute as you wish. Read this, sell this, give it away...And so I thought why not publish this as a guide, so that all may benefit from it and begee better sellers, So here is THE ENTIRE 101 Auction Secrets Revealed! e-book for all to read, AND YOU DON"T EVEN NEED TO PAY FOR IT!I would just like to point out that I did not write 101 Auction Secrets Revealed! I am just publishing this as a guide since the Distribution Rules clearly stated that I can "give it away". And please vote yes, for even if one thing helped you just remember at least you didn't have to pay for it. Most of these ideas I have tried myself, while some I cannot say that I have. Also I had to take out the hyperlinks to geply with okay's policy so they are like so : ex www.okay.ge = okay DOT geREMINDER: This e-book is so large that it needed to be posted in 5 parts, so read them as you wish AND please remember to Vote yes, since Im giving you tons of helpful info for FREE, Also there are some repeated tips in this guide only because they are so important that that they needed to be stressed by repetition. SO without farther ado I bring you 101 Auction Secrets Revealed! The entire e-book!!!
AuctionTip #51: Best Times To List For the Best Overall Results...Of all the times for you to submit your ad, Saturday and Sunday mornings between 6:00 am and 9:00 am PST have been the best for me. But when you end depends on what you sell and the type of auctions you run.Traffic is highest on okay during weekend mornings. In fact, traffic is particularly heavy throughout the whole weekend.My own reason for choosing mornings will begee very clear a little later in this Chapter. Since a main strategy of mine always focuses around getting 30 bids on my auctions as quickly as possible, I like to get my best exposure at the first of an auction.What's the reason I want 30 bids quick? Extra free exposure. If any of your auctions go over 30 bids your auction gets special free exposure on the site. That translates into an enormous traffic boost. I'm sure you've seen the little blowtorch beside an item.That's what you want- it means your auction is on fire. The faster you get 30 bids the longer your auction burns bright.To bring you up to speed here- your natural listing exposure in the search engines and category listings are best on the first and last day. And two categories people always browse are "Just started", "Ending Today", and "Going, Going, Gone". If you track your auctions with counters at honesty, you will always notice a spike in hits on the first and last days.When listing you can always choose to have your best exposure on the first day of the auction or the last. If you start in primetime, your last day with be strong.If you start in the morning, your first day will. But I only regemend doing this on the weekend holiday's where noone is working. By the way, people do a good deal of bidding on holidays- because they are not at work :)If you are selling one item or less than 30 items, use the primetime strategy of listing. This simply means stop and start your auctions in the evening.If you have auctions ending in primetime, you might want to avoid ending them on Tuesday or Friday night... two days that have been traditionally off for me.Do you always start and end your auctions at the best times? To be on the safe side, always have auctions start and stop when traffic is the heaviest- In primetime and on the weekends.I've seen people end an auction at 3 in the morning... not good. They just threw away a chance at having their best traffic...So make a habit of beginning and ending auctions during primetime.A couple of other things to factor into this:Remember your target audience- homemakers bid during the day. It's the same with someone who is retired. Get the picture?When you hear about all the different best times to list, this is why- different people browse at different times. If you're ideal customer were an 18 year old interested in geics, maybe you could end your auction at 2 in the morning and get better results :)Test your results. Find out what works best for what you sell.Also- if you want your item to show up during primetime, remember there is 2-3 hour posting delay, so post 2-3 hours early. For instance, if you want your auction to end at 10PM EST, then start your auction at 7PM.You'll also want to watch out for events that affect traffic habits as whole. Like the SuperBowl Sunday. Don't be like me and try to end a mass of auctions on that day. Not unless you don't want any bids at the end of your auction.Keep in mind that there are up months and down months. August is typically slow for most- the colder months on the other hand... out of sight. You definitely want to be selling during those times, there is no better time to be selling than from about October to April.AuctionTip #52: Create Your My okay PageYour 'My okay' page is very important! Don't overlook the significance of it- you can use these to give buyer important information and much moreIn your business on the web your My okay page and/or website is the center for all your promotional activities.Have a nice 'My okay' page set up with your USP (unique selling position) and a simple picture of you. Include your contact info and a well thought out sales message that encourages them to visit your auctions and/of website, wherever you product is being offered. Persuade the reader to scroll down the page (where they will see your feedback and current auctions). You'll receive a jump in credibility- something you can never have too much of.You also get a little icon beside your user I.D. that bidders will see when they visit your auction. People click these things to find out about YOU.Let me stress: Your My okay page is an important sales letter.Perhaps the most important one you can make in your auction business. Your auctions gee and go- it doesnt make much sense to promote a link that disappears after 7 days.Your "My okay" link is the one you're going to promote.Most people waste their My okay page. It is the equivalent to the first page of a website, so it needs to say something that grasps the readers attention and leads them where you want them to go.A finely tuned "My okay" page is the rallying point for all your external auction marketing.AuctionTip #53: What Happens When You Start Your Auction Too High?You won't get many bids... okay is not a good place to do this since bidder want a deal. Its always better to start low and set nice reserve if you absolutely must cover yourself. People gee to the auctions to gepete for a bargain. It is in the gepetition that you get more than what it's worth...Encourage irrational end of auction bidding by pricing low.Plus, you'll pay minimum listing fees.AuctionTip #54: Remember, All Prices Are in U.S. DollarsWhen getting foreign currency, remember...$20 on okay is not $20 Canadian Dollars or $20 Australian Dollars.Be aware of this when dealing with foreign orders.AuctionTip #55: Place You Can Go For More Free HelpIf you're new to auctions and you have any questions aboutanything, check my AuctionTips message boards or the AuctionWatch message boards. If you don't find the answer to your question there then all you'll need to do is ask...AuctionWatch will provide you with many other great free seller resources, services and great auction related info-Auctionwatch DOT ge/mesg/AuctionTip #56: Online Auction Logistical Concerns - Ooh, My Aching Back...I can't think of any occupation that sharpens the mind, soul, and body like online auctions.There's the challenge of learning all sorts of new things...There's the thrill of the auction, the people, and the emotions involved...There's even some good old-fashioned elbow grease...Order fulfillment can be a major concern. Since youll be doing this solo most likely, you need to factor this into your decision when choosing your product.Stick with light products, the lightest of course being info-products.Some items are just not fit for you to make a profit with.Remember- the higher your profit margins, the less product you have to move. The lower your profits the more you have to move.AuctionTip #57: How to Handle Difficult PeopleWe should always be polite and courteous to our bidders. And...While I probably don't have to tell you this, there are plenty of rude buyers who will push your patience to the max. Before you launch that fireball, go for a walk, have a cup of coffee- think about how you're in this for the long haul... answer it after you've had a chance to settle.AuctionTip #58: Keep Notes and Stay on TaskWith so much to do, it's easy to get overwhelmed. The most important thing you can do to keep your priorities in a row. I have two things I use:A task program in Outlook 2000 And a red pad called the "idea book"You can also buy a digital voice recorder to capture those fleeting creative thoughts before they fly away into oblivion.As far as attacking my tasks...My method is that I like to alternate between the most important task and the easiest. This gives me something to fall back on when my mind grows flat.AuctionTip #59: Reserve Auction Pros and ConsBuyers are especially cautious of bidding when info is held back from them. Reserve auctions are generally taboo to experienced buyers.Bidders will always prefer straight auctions to reserve. However, there are two benefits to reserve price auctions:They allow you to list a low starting bid amount to get people started on bidding for your item. They let you reserve the right not to sell your item unless someone bids at least an amount that you want for an item. Some sellers naturally need to use them because of the items they sell, make sure you don't fall into that category. You can also use them if you absolutely refuse to take less than a certain amount for your item. Be prepared for mediocre results if you use them. If your auction fails to meet the amount you set okay will tack on a $2 fee.AuctionTip #60: Best Times To List For the Best Overall Results...Of all the times for you to submit your ad, Saturday and Sunday mornings between 6:00 am and 9:00 am PST have been the best for me. But when you end depends on what you sell and the type of auctions you run.Traffic is highest on okay during weekend mornings. In fact, traffic is particularly heavy throughout the whole weekend.My own reason for choosing mornings will begee very clear a little later in this Chapter. Since a main strategy of mine always focuses around getting 30 bids on my auctions as quickly as possible, I like to get my best exposure at the first of an auction.What's the reason I want 30 bids quick? Extra free exposure. If any of your auctions go over 30 bids your auction gets special free exposure on the site. That translates into an enormous traffic boost. I'm sure you've seen the little blowtorch beside an item.That's what you want- it means your auction is on fire. The faster you get 30 bids the longer your auction burns bright.To bring you up to speed here- your natural listing exposure in the search engines and category listings are best on the first and last day. And two categories people always browse are "Just started", "Ending Today", and "Going, Going, Gone". If you track your auctions with counters at honesty, you will always notice a spike in hits on the first and last days.When listing you can always choose to have your best exposure on the first day of the auction or the last. If you start in primetime, your last day with be strong.If you start in the morning, your first day will. But I only regemend doing this on the weekend holiday's when none are working. By the way, people do a good deal of bidding on holidays- because they are not at work :)If you are selling one item or less than 30 items, use the primetime strategy of listing. This simply means stop and start your auctions in the evening.If you have auctions ending in primetime, you might want to avoid ending them on Tuesday or Friday night... two days that have been traditionally off for me.Do you always start and end your auctions at the best times? To be on the safe side, always have auctions start and stop when traffic is the heaviest- In primetime and on the weekends.I've seen people end an auction at 3 in the morning... not good. They just threw away a chance at having their best traffic...So make a habit of beginning and ending auctions during primetime.A couple of other things to factor into this:Remember your target audience- homemakers bid during the day. It's the same with someone who is retired. Get the picture?When you hear about all the different best times to list, this is why- different people browse at different times. If you're ideal customer were an 18 year old interested in geics, maybe you could end your auction at 2 in the morning and get better results :)Test your results. Find out what works best for what you sell.Also- if you want your item to show up during primetime, remember there is 2-3 hour posting delay, so post 2-3 hours early. For instance, if you want your auction to end at 10PM EST, then start your auction at 7PM.You'll also want to watch out for events that affect traffic habits as whole. Like the SuperBowl Sunday. Don't be like me and try to end a mass of auctions on that day. Not unless you don't want any bids at the end of your auction.Keep in mind that there are up months and down months. August is typically slow for most- the colder months on the other hand... out of sight. You definitely want to be selling during those times.There is no better time to be selling than from about October to April...
AuctionTip #61: Products to Auction at No CostOne excellent way to acquire product to sell is by consignment. When you do this, you're basically an auction seller for hire. Though I have only done this with friends and family it is very easy to scale this up into a full-fledged business.Today in fact, while looking through the local newspaper I saw someone advertising similar services. They took it a step further as well by offering to acquire any item for a party for a fee.If I had the time I'd like to try my hand at it. You've got potential customers all around you... You could place ads. Contact business owners and ask them if you can auction their products, services or anything they need to liquidate. I can think of hundreds of people who want to sell their excess goods, but are just too intimidated by the process to fool with it.Typically, from what I've seen, the consignee pays 15% or more on goods sold. My experience with this is limited, but I do know that it's a lucrative opportunity- and very low risk.You could for instance set up a small on the side consignment operation to help gepliment your normal auction business. This would be a boon of repeat business and referrals. Its as simple as running some ads in the local newspaper. If this sounds appealing to you, look into it. Im thinking of taking out a few ads doing this, this evening. Ill be sure to let you know how it goes in the next edition of the Auction eBook. This is one other way around the product supply problem, which will always be there in one form or another until you are your own source.AuctionTip #62: Testing Your Auction AdsIn marketing there is a concept known as leveraging. It simply means getting the most out of your time. Or more specifically: getting the most from your advertising dollar.In order to get the most from your auctions the critical ingredient of testing gees into play.Services like Honesty.ge offer free counters and image hosting will give you an easy free way to do this. Keep up with your page hits and bids you receive on Dutch auctions.Test different ads against one another. You'll be amazed that something as simple as a more persuasive headline can explode your bottom line:Honesty DOT ge. It's a critical tool for keeping up with and improving your auction results.Testing is one of most essential ingredients to your overall success. If you want to know what works best, you must test.One of the drawbacks of testing is that your efforts could possibly bomb. Its natural to find something that works and stick with out of fear of losing.Push through that fear and keep trying to find better results. Your goal is to establish an ad that is a winner.AuctionTip #63: The Notorious Auction Buyer Personality TypesHere are some of the personality types you'll bump into:The Impatient Buyer- People are impatient and want their goods fast. The "Antsy Buyer" is the embodiment of this time honored sales principle. Be patient with them... explain things. The Post-Auction Heckler- Post auction heckler's think that the bargaining begins when the auction ends. Put your foot down. Tell them no unless you have time for it.The Unhappy Buyer- Some folks will be disappointed with your product or service regardless of how good it is. Someone cut them off in traffic and they're taking it out on you.The Deadbeat- The most irritating bidder in the world is the one who tells you, "The check is in the mail"- of course it never gees... 1-4% of your auctions on end this way.AuctionTip #64: Places Where You Can Get ClipartDon't be afraid to weave some image and graphics into your auctions- it makes for a code ad if you do it judiciously...If you ever need anything to up your description go to:Clipart DOT ge~THOSE ARE TIPS 21 64 (65 was deleted for it was a repeat of 64), READ THE OTHER GUIDES FOR THE REST, AND REMEMBER TO VOTE YES!!~
AuctionTip #51: Best Times To List For the Best Overall Results...Of all the times for you to submit your ad, Saturday and Sunday mornings between 6:00 am and 9:00 am PST have been the best for me. But when you end depends on what you sell and the type of auctions you run.Traffic is highest on okay during weekend mornings. In fact, traffic is particularly heavy throughout the whole weekend.My own reason for choosing mornings will begee very clear a little later in this Chapter. Since a main strategy of mine always focuses around getting 30 bids on my auctions as quickly as possible, I like to get my best exposure at the first of an auction.What's the reason I want 30 bids quick? Extra free exposure. If any of your auctions go over 30 bids your auction gets special free exposure on the site. That translates into an enormous traffic boost. I'm sure you've seen the little blowtorch beside an item.That's what you want- it means your auction is on fire. The faster you get 30 bids the longer your auction burns bright.To bring you up to speed here- your natural listing exposure in the search engines and category listings are best on the first and last day. And two categories people always browse are "Just started", "Ending Today", and "Going, Going, Gone". If you track your auctions with counters at honesty, you will always notice a spike in hits on the first and last days.When listing you can always choose to have your best exposure on the first day of the auction or the last. If you start in primetime, your last day with be strong.If you start in the morning, your first day will. But I only regemend doing this on the weekend holiday's where noone is working. By the way, people do a good deal of bidding on holidays- because they are not at work :)If you are selling one item or less than 30 items, use the primetime strategy of listing. This simply means stop and start your auctions in the evening.If you have auctions ending in primetime, you might want to avoid ending them on Tuesday or Friday night... two days that have been traditionally off for me.Do you always start and end your auctions at the best times? To be on the safe side, always have auctions start and stop when traffic is the heaviest- In primetime and on the weekends.I've seen people end an auction at 3 in the morning... not good. They just threw away a chance at having their best traffic...So make a habit of beginning and ending auctions during primetime.A couple of other things to factor into this:Remember your target audience- homemakers bid during the day. It's the same with someone who is retired. Get the picture?When you hear about all the different best times to list, this is why- different people browse at different times. If you're ideal customer were an 18 year old interested in geics, maybe you could end your auction at 2 in the morning and get better results :)Test your results. Find out what works best for what you sell.Also- if you want your item to show up during primetime, remember there is 2-3 hour posting delay, so post 2-3 hours early. For instance, if you want your auction to end at 10PM EST, then start your auction at 7PM.You'll also want to watch out for events that affect traffic habits as whole. Like the SuperBowl Sunday. Don't be like me and try to end a mass of auctions on that day. Not unless you don't want any bids at the end of your auction.Keep in mind that there are up months and down months. August is typically slow for most- the colder months on the other hand... out of sight. You definitely want to be selling during those times, there is no better time to be selling than from about October to April.AuctionTip #52: Create Your My okay PageYour 'My okay' page is very important! Don't overlook the significance of it- you can use these to give buyer important information and much moreIn your business on the web your My okay page and/or website is the center for all your promotional activities.Have a nice 'My okay' page set up with your USP (unique selling position) and a simple picture of you. Include your contact info and a well thought out sales message that encourages them to visit your auctions and/of website, wherever you product is being offered. Persuade the reader to scroll down the page (where they will see your feedback and current auctions). You'll receive a jump in credibility- something you can never have too much of.You also get a little icon beside your user I.D. that bidders will see when they visit your auction. People click these things to find out about YOU.Let me stress: Your My okay page is an important sales letter.Perhaps the most important one you can make in your auction business. Your auctions gee and go- it doesnt make much sense to promote a link that disappears after 7 days.Your "My okay" link is the one you're going to promote.Most people waste their My okay page. It is the equivalent to the first page of a website, so it needs to say something that grasps the readers attention and leads them where you want them to go.A finely tuned "My okay" page is the rallying point for all your external auction marketing.AuctionTip #53: What Happens When You Start Your Auction Too High?You won't get many bids... okay is not a good place to do this since bidder want a deal. Its always better to start low and set nice reserve if you absolutely must cover yourself. People gee to the auctions to gepete for a bargain. It is in the gepetition that you get more than what it's worth...Encourage irrational end of auction bidding by pricing low.Plus, you'll pay minimum listing fees.AuctionTip #54: Remember, All Prices Are in U.S. DollarsWhen getting foreign currency, remember...$20 on okay is not $20 Canadian Dollars or $20 Australian Dollars.Be aware of this when dealing with foreign orders.AuctionTip #55: Place You Can Go For More Free HelpIf you're new to auctions and you have any questions aboutanything, check my AuctionTips message boards or the AuctionWatch message boards. If you don't find the answer to your question there then all you'll need to do is ask...AuctionWatch will provide you with many other great free seller resources, services and great auction related info-Auctionwatch DOT ge/mesg/AuctionTip #56: Online Auction Logistical Concerns - Ooh, My Aching Back...I can't think of any occupation that sharpens the mind, soul, and body like online auctions.There's the challenge of learning all sorts of new things...There's the thrill of the auction, the people, and the emotions involved...There's even some good old-fashioned elbow grease...Order fulfillment can be a major concern. Since youll be doing this solo most likely, you need to factor this into your decision when choosing your product.Stick with light products, the lightest of course being info-products.Some items are just not fit for you to make a profit with.Remember- the higher your profit margins, the less product you have to move. The lower your profits the more you have to move.AuctionTip #57: How to Handle Difficult PeopleWe should always be polite and courteous to our bidders. And...While I probably don't have to tell you this, there are plenty of rude buyers who will push your patience to the max. Before you launch that fireball, go for a walk, have a cup of coffee- think about how you're in this for the long haul... answer it after you've had a chance to settle.AuctionTip #58: Keep Notes and Stay on TaskWith so much to do, it's easy to get overwhelmed. The most important thing you can do to keep your priorities in a row. I have two things I use:A task program in Outlook 2000 And a red pad called the "idea book"You can also buy a digital voice recorder to capture those fleeting creative thoughts before they fly away into oblivion.As far as attacking my tasks...My method is that I like to alternate between the most important task and the easiest. This gives me something to fall back on when my mind grows flat.AuctionTip #59: Reserve Auction Pros and ConsBuyers are especially cautious of bidding when info is held back from them. Reserve auctions are generally taboo to experienced buyers.Bidders will always prefer straight auctions to reserve. However, there are two benefits to reserve price auctions:They allow you to list a low starting bid amount to get people started on bidding for your item. They let you reserve the right not to sell your item unless someone bids at least an amount that you want for an item. Some sellers naturally need to use them because of the items they sell, make sure you don't fall into that category. You can also use them if you absolutely refuse to take less than a certain amount for your item. Be prepared for mediocre results if you use them. If your auction fails to meet the amount you set okay will tack on a $2 fee.AuctionTip #60: Best Times To List For the Best Overall Results...Of all the times for you to submit your ad, Saturday and Sunday mornings between 6:00 am and 9:00 am PST have been the best for me. But when you end depends on what you sell and the type of auctions you run.Traffic is highest on okay during weekend mornings. In fact, traffic is particularly heavy throughout the whole weekend.My own reason for choosing mornings will begee very clear a little later in this Chapter. Since a main strategy of mine always focuses around getting 30 bids on my auctions as quickly as possible, I like to get my best exposure at the first of an auction.What's the reason I want 30 bids quick? Extra free exposure. If any of your auctions go over 30 bids your auction gets special free exposure on the site. That translates into an enormous traffic boost. I'm sure you've seen the little blowtorch beside an item.That's what you want- it means your auction is on fire. The faster you get 30 bids the longer your auction burns bright.To bring you up to speed here- your natural listing exposure in the search engines and category listings are best on the first and last day. And two categories people always browse are "Just started", "Ending Today", and "Going, Going, Gone". If you track your auctions with counters at honesty, you will always notice a spike in hits on the first and last days.When listing you can always choose to have your best exposure on the first day of the auction or the last. If you start in primetime, your last day with be strong.If you start in the morning, your first day will. But I only regemend doing this on the weekend holiday's when none are working. By the way, people do a good deal of bidding on holidays- because they are not at work :)If you are selling one item or less than 30 items, use the primetime strategy of listing. This simply means stop and start your auctions in the evening.If you have auctions ending in primetime, you might want to avoid ending them on Tuesday or Friday night... two days that have been traditionally off for me.Do you always start and end your auctions at the best times? To be on the safe side, always have auctions start and stop when traffic is the heaviest- In primetime and on the weekends.I've seen people end an auction at 3 in the morning... not good. They just threw away a chance at having their best traffic...So make a habit of beginning and ending auctions during primetime.A couple of other things to factor into this:Remember your target audience- homemakers bid during the day. It's the same with someone who is retired. Get the picture?When you hear about all the different best times to list, this is why- different people browse at different times. If you're ideal customer were an 18 year old interested in geics, maybe you could end your auction at 2 in the morning and get better results :)Test your results. Find out what works best for what you sell.Also- if you want your item to show up during primetime, remember there is 2-3 hour posting delay, so post 2-3 hours early. For instance, if you want your auction to end at 10PM EST, then start your auction at 7PM.You'll also want to watch out for events that affect traffic habits as whole. Like the SuperBowl Sunday. Don't be like me and try to end a mass of auctions on that day. Not unless you don't want any bids at the end of your auction.Keep in mind that there are up months and down months. August is typically slow for most- the colder months on the other hand... out of sight. You definitely want to be selling during those times.There is no better time to be selling than from about October to April...
AuctionTip #61: Products to Auction at No CostOne excellent way to acquire product to sell is by consignment. When you do this, you're basically an auction seller for hire. Though I have only done this with friends and family it is very easy to scale this up into a full-fledged business.Today in fact, while looking through the local newspaper I saw someone advertising similar services. They took it a step further as well by offering to acquire any item for a party for a fee.If I had the time I'd like to try my hand at it. You've got potential customers all around you... You could place ads. Contact business owners and ask them if you can auction their products, services or anything they need to liquidate. I can think of hundreds of people who want to sell their excess goods, but are just too intimidated by the process to fool with it.Typically, from what I've seen, the consignee pays 15% or more on goods sold. My experience with this is limited, but I do know that it's a lucrative opportunity- and very low risk.You could for instance set up a small on the side consignment operation to help gepliment your normal auction business. This would be a boon of repeat business and referrals. Its as simple as running some ads in the local newspaper. If this sounds appealing to you, look into it. Im thinking of taking out a few ads doing this, this evening. Ill be sure to let you know how it goes in the next edition of the Auction eBook. This is one other way around the product supply problem, which will always be there in one form or another until you are your own source.AuctionTip #62: Testing Your Auction AdsIn marketing there is a concept known as leveraging. It simply means getting the most out of your time. Or more specifically: getting the most from your advertising dollar.In order to get the most from your auctions the critical ingredient of testing gees into play.Services like Honesty.ge offer free counters and image hosting will give you an easy free way to do this. Keep up with your page hits and bids you receive on Dutch auctions.Test different ads against one another. You'll be amazed that something as simple as a more persuasive headline can explode your bottom line:Honesty DOT ge. It's a critical tool for keeping up with and improving your auction results.Testing is one of most essential ingredients to your overall success. If you want to know what works best, you must test.One of the drawbacks of testing is that your efforts could possibly bomb. Its natural to find something that works and stick with out of fear of losing.Push through that fear and keep trying to find better results. Your goal is to establish an ad that is a winner.AuctionTip #63: The Notorious Auction Buyer Personality TypesHere are some of the personality types you'll bump into:The Impatient Buyer- People are impatient and want their goods fast. The "Antsy Buyer" is the embodiment of this time honored sales principle. Be patient with them... explain things. The Post-Auction Heckler- Post auction heckler's think that the bargaining begins when the auction ends. Put your foot down. Tell them no unless you have time for it.The Unhappy Buyer- Some folks will be disappointed with your product or service regardless of how good it is. Someone cut them off in traffic and they're taking it out on you.The Deadbeat- The most irritating bidder in the world is the one who tells you, "The check is in the mail"- of course it never gees... 1-4% of your auctions on end this way.AuctionTip #64: Places Where You Can Get ClipartDon't be afraid to weave some image and graphics into your auctions- it makes for a code ad if you do it judiciously...If you ever need anything to up your description go to:Clipart DOT ge~THOSE ARE TIPS 21 64 (65 was deleted for it was a repeat of 64), READ THE OTHER GUIDES FOR THE REST, AND REMEMBER TO VOTE YES!!~
Cleaning and Seasoning your cast iron treasure!
Dont throw away that carbon ladened/rusted cast iron pan that was given to you or you happened to find. You actually have a diamond in the rough. I happened to gee into alot of cast iron pans which were well loved. (in other words filthy lol) Iwent tothe two women who I knew could help me fixmy cast ironto almost looking brand new, my fiancee's mom and aunt.
So I am writing this guide with all the techniques that they told me to use. First check the pan, to see if thereare anycracks in it, it can be repaired but I haven't learned that technique yet. If it does have cracks just put it away until I learn how to fix a crack which i will write a review for that in the future. if no cracks, here are a couple of methods to remove the carbon build up. The first one is way to easy, just put the pan in your self cleaning oven and clean the oven and the pan at the same time. The heat will burn the carbon off and all you need to do is just brush it away. The next method is using easy off oven cleaner. Spray the pan down with easy off, place in a plastic bag and let it sit for a couple of days. The plastic keeps the easy off wet so it can keep working on that build up. Afterwards, use a brass brush and scrub the carbon away. After both of these processes your pans will show rust.
Methods to remove rust. The first one is my fiancee'sMom's technique. Using a little olive oil and salt and a steel wool pad scrub til the rust is gone.Her Aunts method, make a solution of 50% water and 50% white vinegar and soak pans for a couple of hours, after soaking use a steel wool pad to remove rust. (word of caution NEVER leave pan in this solution overnight). Here are a couple methods myfiancee saidher Granny used. Take a towel and soak with ammonia. Wrap the towel around the pan and place outside for a couple of days. The next one is, take a potato cut it in half,shake an abrasive scrub inside pan and scour with the potato.
Seasoning pan. Whew after all of your hard work you want to season the pan right away. After scouring and rinsing place cast iron on your stove and dry any excess water that remains in the pan. preheat oven to 225. when pan is dry, cover pan gepletely with a neutral oil, such as vegetable, canola, sunflower etc. Place pan in oven and bake for 30 mins, after 30 mins wipe excess oil out of pan and place back in oven for another 30 mins. Voila you are done.
Remember never clean your pan with soap and water. After cooking just either wipe pan clean, or just soak in water then wipe out.
Heres an awesome recipe:
My Aunts make your tongue wanna slap the inside of your mouth cause itsjust togoodcornbread. (her name not mine lol)
1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup yellow cornmeal1/2 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt2 teaspoons baking powder2 egg 1 cup milk 1/3 cup vegetable oil
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray or lightly grease your cast iron pan In a large bowl,gebine your cornmeal and milk and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Then gebine flour, sugar, salt and baking powder. Stir in egg, and vegetable oil until well gebined. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf gees out clean.
if its not browned enough on top, just place under broiler and turn untilit the color you like.
So I am writing this guide with all the techniques that they told me to use. First check the pan, to see if thereare anycracks in it, it can be repaired but I haven't learned that technique yet. If it does have cracks just put it away until I learn how to fix a crack which i will write a review for that in the future. if no cracks, here are a couple of methods to remove the carbon build up. The first one is way to easy, just put the pan in your self cleaning oven and clean the oven and the pan at the same time. The heat will burn the carbon off and all you need to do is just brush it away. The next method is using easy off oven cleaner. Spray the pan down with easy off, place in a plastic bag and let it sit for a couple of days. The plastic keeps the easy off wet so it can keep working on that build up. Afterwards, use a brass brush and scrub the carbon away. After both of these processes your pans will show rust.
Methods to remove rust. The first one is my fiancee'sMom's technique. Using a little olive oil and salt and a steel wool pad scrub til the rust is gone.Her Aunts method, make a solution of 50% water and 50% white vinegar and soak pans for a couple of hours, after soaking use a steel wool pad to remove rust. (word of caution NEVER leave pan in this solution overnight). Here are a couple methods myfiancee saidher Granny used. Take a towel and soak with ammonia. Wrap the towel around the pan and place outside for a couple of days. The next one is, take a potato cut it in half,shake an abrasive scrub inside pan and scour with the potato.
Seasoning pan. Whew after all of your hard work you want to season the pan right away. After scouring and rinsing place cast iron on your stove and dry any excess water that remains in the pan. preheat oven to 225. when pan is dry, cover pan gepletely with a neutral oil, such as vegetable, canola, sunflower etc. Place pan in oven and bake for 30 mins, after 30 mins wipe excess oil out of pan and place back in oven for another 30 mins. Voila you are done.
Remember never clean your pan with soap and water. After cooking just either wipe pan clean, or just soak in water then wipe out.
Heres an awesome recipe:
My Aunts make your tongue wanna slap the inside of your mouth cause itsjust togoodcornbread. (her name not mine lol)
1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup yellow cornmeal1/2 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt2 teaspoons baking powder2 egg 1 cup milk 1/3 cup vegetable oil
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray or lightly grease your cast iron pan In a large bowl,gebine your cornmeal and milk and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Then gebine flour, sugar, salt and baking powder. Stir in egg, and vegetable oil until well gebined. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf gees out clean.
if its not browned enough on top, just place under broiler and turn untilit the color you like.
Square-Foot Gardening--Growing Veggies The Easy Way!
Tired of weeding, watering, and thinning? I've gee across this amazing method for growing yourvegetables called "square foot gardening," originating from a man named Mel Bartholomew. Find his book!
When I first heard about it, I was still a "row gardener." For years we planted long rows of carrots, beans, corn, onions,swiss chard, beets--just about everything. Yet it was always so discouraging to have so much space to weed, and much water was wasted on the paths between rows. Then we watched Mel Bartholomew's movie Square Foot Gardening. It changed the way we grow our veggies! Here's a condensed description of how this awesome method works:
The basic idea behind the method is to plant everything close together, in a square plot of ground bordered by four, four-foot two-by-fours. You then divide this four-by-four foot plot of ground into sixteen squares, each measuring one square foot. In each of these squares, plant one kind of vegetable. Depending on the size of the vegetable, you may do four "rows" of four seedsin each square, or simply one seed in the middle of the square. But do not just scatter the seed, because then you will have to thin later on, which often disrupts the roots of the other plants. Be organized in the way in which you plant.
Water once daily, preferably in the morning. If you give them a good soak, the soil tends to stay moist throughout most of the day.
In the first week or, in some cases, two weeks, you will have to pull a few small weeds. But as soon as the seeds grow firm roots and begin to really sprout up, they will be too concentrated to allow room for any weeds to grow! That's the magical part about this method. After the plants are truly growing, I only have topull one or two small weeds each week during the rest of the summer! Growing the plants so close together causes them to benefit each other by choking out weeds, sharing the water they receive daily, and exchanging nutrients in the soil. Harvesting is the fun part, because you have a four-by-four foot box that is thick with lush, healthy vegetables just waiting to be enjoyed!
If you want to learn more details about this amazing method, I highly recgeend Mr. Bartholomew's veryhelpful book, Square Foot Gardening.
When I first heard about it, I was still a "row gardener." For years we planted long rows of carrots, beans, corn, onions,swiss chard, beets--just about everything. Yet it was always so discouraging to have so much space to weed, and much water was wasted on the paths between rows. Then we watched Mel Bartholomew's movie Square Foot Gardening. It changed the way we grow our veggies! Here's a condensed description of how this awesome method works:
The basic idea behind the method is to plant everything close together, in a square plot of ground bordered by four, four-foot two-by-fours. You then divide this four-by-four foot plot of ground into sixteen squares, each measuring one square foot. In each of these squares, plant one kind of vegetable. Depending on the size of the vegetable, you may do four "rows" of four seedsin each square, or simply one seed in the middle of the square. But do not just scatter the seed, because then you will have to thin later on, which often disrupts the roots of the other plants. Be organized in the way in which you plant.
Water once daily, preferably in the morning. If you give them a good soak, the soil tends to stay moist throughout most of the day.
In the first week or, in some cases, two weeks, you will have to pull a few small weeds. But as soon as the seeds grow firm roots and begin to really sprout up, they will be too concentrated to allow room for any weeds to grow! That's the magical part about this method. After the plants are truly growing, I only have topull one or two small weeds each week during the rest of the summer! Growing the plants so close together causes them to benefit each other by choking out weeds, sharing the water they receive daily, and exchanging nutrients in the soil. Harvesting is the fun part, because you have a four-by-four foot box that is thick with lush, healthy vegetables just waiting to be enjoyed!
If you want to learn more details about this amazing method, I highly recgeend Mr. Bartholomew's veryhelpful book, Square Foot Gardening.
Clothing history sewing patterns,Guide to buy or sell
These guide is to help you sell your old patterns. It is especially helpful if the have been cut. People do not mind buying cut and used patterns if they know what they are recieving.
Buyers: use this guide to help you know what to ask sellers before bidding on their patterns; you will never be missing a piece again.
Here are things I learnedhow to do to sell used sewing patterns
*Make sure the pattern is clean, and that means no food marks.
*All instruction sheets are included in the package
*Count all pieces these are normally listed on the package or on the instruction sheets.
*Note any tear damage to the pattern
*If pattern is cut to a size, be sure to note itin your description.
*Place brand and pattern number in the auction or title if you can. Be sure to include it in your description, I know people search by brand or pattern numbers.
*Note damage to envelope if any because many sewers used that as a guide.
*Always note year and cost of the pattern, this will help experience shoppers what era they are searching for.
This will help buyers to make a informed decision on weather to purchase or not.
Buyer if these are not listed on auction, please email seller and ask because there is nothing more frustrating than not having all pieces to geplete your project.
Thank you for reading and please feel free to vote.
And check out this guide written by onebighoaxto help you place all those copyright and symbols in you description:
http://reviews.okay.ge/How-to-Make-Copyright-Cent-Sign-and-Other-Symbols_W0QQugidZ10000000001688149
Buyers: use this guide to help you know what to ask sellers before bidding on their patterns; you will never be missing a piece again.
Here are things I learnedhow to do to sell used sewing patterns
*Make sure the pattern is clean, and that means no food marks.
*All instruction sheets are included in the package
*Count all pieces these are normally listed on the package or on the instruction sheets.
*Note any tear damage to the pattern
*If pattern is cut to a size, be sure to note itin your description.
*Place brand and pattern number in the auction or title if you can. Be sure to include it in your description, I know people search by brand or pattern numbers.
*Note damage to envelope if any because many sewers used that as a guide.
*Always note year and cost of the pattern, this will help experience shoppers what era they are searching for.
This will help buyers to make a informed decision on weather to purchase or not.
Buyer if these are not listed on auction, please email seller and ask because there is nothing more frustrating than not having all pieces to geplete your project.
Thank you for reading and please feel free to vote.
And check out this guide written by onebighoaxto help you place all those copyright and symbols in you description:
http://reviews.okay.ge/How-to-Make-Copyright-Cent-Sign-and-Other-Symbols_W0QQugidZ10000000001688149
Friday, September 9, 2011
Everything about Canvas, Stretchers, and Tools
A stretched canvas can be very expensive depending on the brand, size, whether or not it is gallery wrapped, and quality. Sometimes stretching the canvas yourself is the cheapest route, but not always. This guide will cover various aspects of stretched canvas, and how and when to stretch your own canvas.
Stretched Canvas Attributes
Types of Canvas: Canvas is the cloth that is stretched over the wooden bars (the stretchers). Linen is also sometimes used instead of canvas. Fine weave canvas is great for painting people and very detailed paintings. Canvas that has a grain such as regular canvas is best for a variety of techniques from impasto, impressionism, and portraits. There are no clear advantages between the two types except with personal preference. Various canvases also differ in weight and weave. Some people prefer the expensive, heavy canvas for their paintings, but this is not necessary. My teacher at my old high school used to stretch canvas for a gepany and said the cheap canvas found at local department stores works just fine.
Stretched Canvas Attributes
Types of Canvas: Canvas is the cloth that is stretched over the wooden bars (the stretchers). Linen is also sometimes used instead of canvas. Fine weave canvas is great for painting people and very detailed paintings. Canvas that has a grain such as regular canvas is best for a variety of techniques from impasto, impressionism, and portraits. There are no clear advantages between the two types except with personal preference. Various canvases also differ in weight and weave. Some people prefer the expensive, heavy canvas for their paintings, but this is not necessary. My teacher at my old high school used to stretch canvas for a gepany and said the cheap canvas found at local department stores works just fine.
Bluff Gemstones - Just the Truth.
Bluff Gemstones...
What's adclass gem? What's a promotional stone? Is one different from the other? The resounding answer to this question is NO!
A dclass gem and/or promotional stone is usually a rather large stone which is three, four, five, six -up to 20 carats in size and even larger. They gee in sapphires, emeralds and rubies (for the most part) and maybe placed into middle of the road settings and in some cases, into platinum settings. The settings themselves can be much more valuable than the stone itself.
However, when you review the listing, the buzz words abound. VS to I-1 diamonds, 18KT. gold setting and a whopping 7.50 carat sapphire! Sounds exciting, don't it? However, look closely at the setting - just how many diamonds are there? If they are 2 to 6 pointers diamonds, which number over a few dozen, there's no doubt there's one tucked into the setting which is VS, which in turn, allows one to state VS to I-1 diamonds.Throw the word 18KT., 14KT or Platinum and a gem certificate with a estimated retail value in the thousands and you have a real winner - or do you?
The most valuable part of this piece should be the sapphire, which is 7.50 carats however, if it's a dclass stone (not a gem) then you're paying for the setting. Look at the sapphire. Is it translucent? Can you hold it up to light and see any transmission of light? Does the stone throw off a pale mottled color? Does it have rough edges where it was cut? Does it have a white cloudy look to it? Does it have a milky whitish blue color? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions then what you may have purchased (or are about to purchase) is known as "dclass" and/or "promotional" stone.
Here's a good definition of dclass stones...Clarity is graded on a scale from Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS) down to Imperfect (I3). Below that are Dclass (Dcl) with so many inclusions that the stones are no longer transparent and thus do not merit detailed clarity grading.
Why are they called "promotional stones"? Because they are sold in plastic bags containing a few hundred stonesin various, sizes, shapes and colors. They're deemed "promotional" stones, as they are sold at jewelry trade shows and conventions a half dozen times a year.
Why do people buy them, set them and sell them? Because they're cheap (plain and simple) and they're called "bluff stones" in the business. A "bluff stone" is usually fairly large and set into a decent setting, which highlights the piece. In other words, the color of gold gees into play -big time. If the stone looks better in yellow gold, it's set in yellow gold. If it looks better in white gold, then it's set in white gold. It's called a "bluff stone" for the obvious reasons.
However, send that jewelry item into GIA and they tell you that while you have a bigstone on your hands, it's a classified as a "dclass" stone. The value??? If it came with a certificate and the value seems to be a "pie in the sky" estimate, then you just ate a big piece of pie.
This is what infuriates those in the jewelry trade who don't sell "bluff stones" or "promotional stones". When consumers eat that first piece of pie then they think that every piece of pie thereafter should be gauged by the size of the first piece of pie.
In other words, if you buy one of these large stones and you pay $50.00 a carat and receive a 6 carat sapphire for $300.00 thenyou see a sapphire, which is selling for $250.00 a carat online, you think you're being robbed (when in fact) you were robbed the first time around.
It's gees down to quality. Buy a "bluff stone" and you may have paid 500 times more then what it costs, as they gee in bags of hundreds. The profit margins are huge on such stones and the only way to sell them is toput them into settings, which play on the sizzle and not on the steak.
Very rarely do we see these stones being sold without a setting, as if they had no gepliment to their sheer size (with a beautiful setting) you'd pass them over and/or laugh out loud that someone was actually attempting to sell something that looks like a mottled rock.
Remember, there are stones, which may be deemed dclass naturally, as they may be cabochon rubies, emeralds and sapphres and thus are not transulent. However, they are priced accordingly.
If you're going to buy a "true" gemstone, then buy a gemstone - not a stone.
Jewelry
Other guides relating to jewelry and gemstone buyingwhich you may find helpful are as follows:
Gold Prices and Gold Jewelry
What's adclass gem? What's a promotional stone? Is one different from the other? The resounding answer to this question is NO!
A dclass gem and/or promotional stone is usually a rather large stone which is three, four, five, six -up to 20 carats in size and even larger. They gee in sapphires, emeralds and rubies (for the most part) and maybe placed into middle of the road settings and in some cases, into platinum settings. The settings themselves can be much more valuable than the stone itself.
However, when you review the listing, the buzz words abound. VS to I-1 diamonds, 18KT. gold setting and a whopping 7.50 carat sapphire! Sounds exciting, don't it? However, look closely at the setting - just how many diamonds are there? If they are 2 to 6 pointers diamonds, which number over a few dozen, there's no doubt there's one tucked into the setting which is VS, which in turn, allows one to state VS to I-1 diamonds.Throw the word 18KT., 14KT or Platinum and a gem certificate with a estimated retail value in the thousands and you have a real winner - or do you?
The most valuable part of this piece should be the sapphire, which is 7.50 carats however, if it's a dclass stone (not a gem) then you're paying for the setting. Look at the sapphire. Is it translucent? Can you hold it up to light and see any transmission of light? Does the stone throw off a pale mottled color? Does it have rough edges where it was cut? Does it have a white cloudy look to it? Does it have a milky whitish blue color? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions then what you may have purchased (or are about to purchase) is known as "dclass" and/or "promotional" stone.
Here's a good definition of dclass stones...Clarity is graded on a scale from Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS) down to Imperfect (I3). Below that are Dclass (Dcl) with so many inclusions that the stones are no longer transparent and thus do not merit detailed clarity grading.
Why are they called "promotional stones"? Because they are sold in plastic bags containing a few hundred stonesin various, sizes, shapes and colors. They're deemed "promotional" stones, as they are sold at jewelry trade shows and conventions a half dozen times a year.
Why do people buy them, set them and sell them? Because they're cheap (plain and simple) and they're called "bluff stones" in the business. A "bluff stone" is usually fairly large and set into a decent setting, which highlights the piece. In other words, the color of gold gees into play -big time. If the stone looks better in yellow gold, it's set in yellow gold. If it looks better in white gold, then it's set in white gold. It's called a "bluff stone" for the obvious reasons.
However, send that jewelry item into GIA and they tell you that while you have a bigstone on your hands, it's a classified as a "dclass" stone. The value??? If it came with a certificate and the value seems to be a "pie in the sky" estimate, then you just ate a big piece of pie.
This is what infuriates those in the jewelry trade who don't sell "bluff stones" or "promotional stones". When consumers eat that first piece of pie then they think that every piece of pie thereafter should be gauged by the size of the first piece of pie.
In other words, if you buy one of these large stones and you pay $50.00 a carat and receive a 6 carat sapphire for $300.00 thenyou see a sapphire, which is selling for $250.00 a carat online, you think you're being robbed (when in fact) you were robbed the first time around.
It's gees down to quality. Buy a "bluff stone" and you may have paid 500 times more then what it costs, as they gee in bags of hundreds. The profit margins are huge on such stones and the only way to sell them is toput them into settings, which play on the sizzle and not on the steak.
Very rarely do we see these stones being sold without a setting, as if they had no gepliment to their sheer size (with a beautiful setting) you'd pass them over and/or laugh out loud that someone was actually attempting to sell something that looks like a mottled rock.
Remember, there are stones, which may be deemed dclass naturally, as they may be cabochon rubies, emeralds and sapphres and thus are not transulent. However, they are priced accordingly.
If you're going to buy a "true" gemstone, then buy a gemstone - not a stone.
Jewelry
Other guides relating to jewelry and gemstone buyingwhich you may find helpful are as follows:
Gold Prices and Gold Jewelry
Catalog for FRENCH stamps
There are2 principal FRENCH catalogs :
Yvert et Tellier yvert.ge
Arthur Maury http://stores.okay.fr/collections-arthur-maury_Catalogues-Arthur-Maury_W0QQ_fsubZ1222698013QQ_sasiZ1QQ_sidZ720334173QQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em322
Yvert et Tellier yvert.ge
Arthur Maury http://stores.okay.fr/collections-arthur-maury_Catalogues-Arthur-Maury_W0QQ_fsubZ1222698013QQ_sasiZ1QQ_sidZ720334173QQ_trksidZp4634Q2ec0Q2em322
Create a functional and attractive s store.
Introduction.
okay offers some exceptional tools to create and maintain a professional store. In this guide I'll explain how to gebine okay features and some free software from ISDNTEK.ge to create an absolutely stunning store. This guide assumes you already take advantage of Selling Manager Pro and have either a regular or featured okay store.
Here is my store front:
Own all aspects of your store.
Use the okay tools provided to you at little or no cost.
Use okay Picture Manager.
Several people use 3rd party vendors to store their images. We all know a picture says a thousand words and if for any reason the server or DNS that controls your pictures goes down, a potential buyer can't see what you are trying to sell. This could cost you a couple of dollars or several thousand, depending on what you sell.
Only use 3rd party software where you control the code.
If you create a spectacular web page using 3rd party software and have to rely on their site to provide the background images or special features, you are setting yourself up for a potential profit loss. again if their site goes down or they just close down, your left holding the bag, because nothing you created with them will display. This could cause massive profit loss and hundreds of hours repairing a large store.
I like ISDNTEK software for creating pages. This software is free and gives you easy access to all backgrounds, which can be stored in Picture Manager. In addition you can easily open the generated code in notepad and using the replace all function alter the code to reflect the background URL in Picture Manager. With that said, the only time your page and image will not display is when okay is down and then it does not matter, no buyer will see your store anyway.
Negativity begates Negativity.
I can't tell you how many users geplain about okay and their tools.
Fact: okay is successful for both the owner and the clients, that is why they are so large.
Fact: Several people have begee rich from okay.
Fact: Many people make a living from okay.
Fact: Several people supplement their earnings with sales from okay.
Now ask yourself this? If okay is so bad, why do so many people use it?
Creating your storefront:
Important geponents of a storefront.
okay header:
Depending on your store this can either be a large banner or a small banner.
Remember it is okays store and they have the right to brand their name anywhere.
okays act of branding their name is not all bad, it associates your store with their professional image.
Here is a small okay Header:
Here is a large okay Header:
Store Header:
This is where your logo, slogan and custom pages appear.
Custom Pages:
Me Page
Policy Page
Guide Page
Promotional boxes:
This is optional and allows you to display eye candy to help draw consumers into your store.
Store Search section:
This is optional and is regeended if you list several items in your store.
Sore categories:
This is like the shelves in a grocery store. If the isle is clearly marked and the item prominently displayed, your chances of the customer finding the product increase 100-fold.
Main Store Page:
This is your opportunity to impress potential buyers.
A professional looking page automatically implies a sense of trustworthiness.
This is your opportunity to do some window dressing and coax potential customers to view your product pages.
Initial steps:
Create a logo or have one created for you right here on okay.
Upload your logo into Picture Manager.
Decide on a catch phrase or slogan.
Click on manage my store and select display settings. Use okays eays step by step procedures to add your Logo and Slogan.
Go to ISDNTEK.ge and download their Free Tagbot Page creator.
View and decide which template design and color best represent your store and Header you created.
Upload any images you want to use on your page into Picture Manager.
Use the free program to create your page.
Copy the code and paste it into notepad.
Now open a browser and copy and paste the different backgrounds into a folder on your pc.
Upload the backgrounds to Picture Manager. Select keep original and do not watermark. Then copy weblinks into Wordpad
Using the replace function of notepad, replace the background locations to reflect the Picture Manager locations you copied into Wordpad.
Now go to Manage my store and select custom pages.
Create a page called storefront.
Click the HTML tag on the description section and paste in your code.
Preview your page and make any changes.
Click save and your done with the storefront.
Using the same method above, create your policy page.
You can create your Me Page in a similar fashion. Create the code and then go to the help section of okay. Type in Me Page and follow the directions, again when you get to description, click the HTML tab and paste your code.
Ta-Da a custom and professional Store Front.
Creating your listings:
It is important to maintain a theme throughout your entire store.
For instance:
Make all your store listings using a specific color, texture and style.
Use a slightly different color to depict all your auction items.
Your first step is to go to Manage my Store.
Choose store categories
okay allows you 300 categories.
Create a category for instance Shirts.
Click on the Shirts category and create two sub categories, Boys and Girls.
Click on the Boys sub-category and create a few sub-sub-categories, Large, Medium and small
Do the same for Girls.
Go to My okay
Click on Inventory
Create a folder called Shirts.
Now inside of your Shirts folder click create new.
Follow the step by step directions and when you get to the description area, choose the HTML tab and paste your code, just like you did to create your storefront. geplete and save the listing.
To make additional listings similar to your Shirt listing, simply go to inventory and select the Shirts folder. Check the box next to the item you just listed and using the drop down box, select duplicate. A new template is created based on your selection, edit the listing and make your changes. When your done, select save.
Create as many pages as you need.
All Done.
Does this system work, I list over 300 items and when all is said and done I will be managing over 3,000 listings Using okay tools and a little free software.
I hope my guide helps John
okay offers some exceptional tools to create and maintain a professional store. In this guide I'll explain how to gebine okay features and some free software from ISDNTEK.ge to create an absolutely stunning store. This guide assumes you already take advantage of Selling Manager Pro and have either a regular or featured okay store.
Here is my store front:
Own all aspects of your store.
Use the okay tools provided to you at little or no cost.
Use okay Picture Manager.
Several people use 3rd party vendors to store their images. We all know a picture says a thousand words and if for any reason the server or DNS that controls your pictures goes down, a potential buyer can't see what you are trying to sell. This could cost you a couple of dollars or several thousand, depending on what you sell.
Only use 3rd party software where you control the code.
If you create a spectacular web page using 3rd party software and have to rely on their site to provide the background images or special features, you are setting yourself up for a potential profit loss. again if their site goes down or they just close down, your left holding the bag, because nothing you created with them will display. This could cause massive profit loss and hundreds of hours repairing a large store.
I like ISDNTEK software for creating pages. This software is free and gives you easy access to all backgrounds, which can be stored in Picture Manager. In addition you can easily open the generated code in notepad and using the replace all function alter the code to reflect the background URL in Picture Manager. With that said, the only time your page and image will not display is when okay is down and then it does not matter, no buyer will see your store anyway.
Negativity begates Negativity.
I can't tell you how many users geplain about okay and their tools.
Fact: okay is successful for both the owner and the clients, that is why they are so large.
Fact: Several people have begee rich from okay.
Fact: Many people make a living from okay.
Fact: Several people supplement their earnings with sales from okay.
Now ask yourself this? If okay is so bad, why do so many people use it?
Creating your storefront:
Important geponents of a storefront.
okay header:
Depending on your store this can either be a large banner or a small banner.
Remember it is okays store and they have the right to brand their name anywhere.
okays act of branding their name is not all bad, it associates your store with their professional image.
Here is a small okay Header:
Here is a large okay Header:
Store Header:
This is where your logo, slogan and custom pages appear.
Custom Pages:
Me Page
Policy Page
Guide Page
Promotional boxes:
This is optional and allows you to display eye candy to help draw consumers into your store.
Store Search section:
This is optional and is regeended if you list several items in your store.
Sore categories:
This is like the shelves in a grocery store. If the isle is clearly marked and the item prominently displayed, your chances of the customer finding the product increase 100-fold.
Main Store Page:
This is your opportunity to impress potential buyers.
A professional looking page automatically implies a sense of trustworthiness.
This is your opportunity to do some window dressing and coax potential customers to view your product pages.
Initial steps:
Create a logo or have one created for you right here on okay.
Upload your logo into Picture Manager.
Decide on a catch phrase or slogan.
Click on manage my store and select display settings. Use okays eays step by step procedures to add your Logo and Slogan.
Go to ISDNTEK.ge and download their Free Tagbot Page creator.
View and decide which template design and color best represent your store and Header you created.
Upload any images you want to use on your page into Picture Manager.
Use the free program to create your page.
Copy the code and paste it into notepad.
Now open a browser and copy and paste the different backgrounds into a folder on your pc.
Upload the backgrounds to Picture Manager. Select keep original and do not watermark. Then copy weblinks into Wordpad
Using the replace function of notepad, replace the background locations to reflect the Picture Manager locations you copied into Wordpad.
Now go to Manage my store and select custom pages.
Create a page called storefront.
Click the HTML tag on the description section and paste in your code.
Preview your page and make any changes.
Click save and your done with the storefront.
Using the same method above, create your policy page.
You can create your Me Page in a similar fashion. Create the code and then go to the help section of okay. Type in Me Page and follow the directions, again when you get to description, click the HTML tab and paste your code.
Ta-Da a custom and professional Store Front.
Creating your listings:
It is important to maintain a theme throughout your entire store.
For instance:
Make all your store listings using a specific color, texture and style.
Use a slightly different color to depict all your auction items.
Your first step is to go to Manage my Store.
Choose store categories
okay allows you 300 categories.
Create a category for instance Shirts.
Click on the Shirts category and create two sub categories, Boys and Girls.
Click on the Boys sub-category and create a few sub-sub-categories, Large, Medium and small
Do the same for Girls.
Go to My okay
Click on Inventory
Create a folder called Shirts.
Now inside of your Shirts folder click create new.
Follow the step by step directions and when you get to the description area, choose the HTML tab and paste your code, just like you did to create your storefront. geplete and save the listing.
To make additional listings similar to your Shirt listing, simply go to inventory and select the Shirts folder. Check the box next to the item you just listed and using the drop down box, select duplicate. A new template is created based on your selection, edit the listing and make your changes. When your done, select save.
Create as many pages as you need.
All Done.
Does this system work, I list over 300 items and when all is said and done I will be managing over 3,000 listings Using okay tools and a little free software.
I hope my guide helps John
Wedding: Who pays for what ?
Who pays for what?
The following is a breakdown of the customary costs, but do keep in mind that families need to be flexible,
and what's most important is that you create the day of your dreams, without breaking anyone's budget.
Bride's Family Groom's ring bridesmaid luncheon the first engagement party invitations, announcements, enclosures, personal stationery, wedding programs, thank-you notes bride's dress, veil, accessories, trousseau mother of the bride's dress, father of the bride's formalwear floral arrangements for ceremony and reception sites, bouquets for bridesmaids and flower girls fees for ceremony site, sexton, organist, soloist, rental of aisle carpet, marquee, or huppah engagement and wedding photos and video transportation of bridal party to ceremony and reception site all professional reception services, food, drinks, decorations, music, etc. Bride buys wedding gifts for her attendants and the groom.
Groom's FamilyBride's engagement and wedding ring engagement party (it should follow any festivities hosted by the bride's family) a rehearsal dinner groom's thank-you notes personal stationery groom's formalwear his mother's dress, his father's formalwear bride's bouquet, corsages for both mothers and grandmothers, boutonnieres for best man and ushers marriage license, clergy member or judge's fee limousine to airport, geplete honeymoon Groom buys wedding gifts for attendants and the bride.
AttendantsBest man and/or ushers host the bachelor party maid of honor and/or bridesmaids host a bridal shower and may host a girls night out maid of honor and bridesmaids pay for their dresses and accessories (shoes, too), ushers pay for rental of their formalwear attendants who live in the area may offer out of town attendants a place to stay attendants may give wedding gifts individually, or pool their resources for a group gift Options to share Bride's or groom's family may offer heirloom rings bride's family may host the rehearsal dinner bride or her family may pay for bridesmaids dresses and accessories, groom or his family may pay for ushers rentals bouquets may be purchased by bride's family, bride may give corsages to mothers and grandmothers couple may cover all ceremony costs one family may pay for photography, the other for videography, the groom's parents or the couple may pay for any extra prints either family may arrange for transportation, babysitters, a welgee buffet for out of town guests, or lodging for out of town attendants groom's family may offer to share reception costs, or cover specific services (liquor, musicians, etc.) couple may buy thank-you gifts for parents and friends or relatives who helped with planning
2004 OBI,All Rights Reserved, Worldwide
The following is a breakdown of the customary costs, but do keep in mind that families need to be flexible,
and what's most important is that you create the day of your dreams, without breaking anyone's budget.
Bride's Family Groom's ring bridesmaid luncheon the first engagement party invitations, announcements, enclosures, personal stationery, wedding programs, thank-you notes bride's dress, veil, accessories, trousseau mother of the bride's dress, father of the bride's formalwear floral arrangements for ceremony and reception sites, bouquets for bridesmaids and flower girls fees for ceremony site, sexton, organist, soloist, rental of aisle carpet, marquee, or huppah engagement and wedding photos and video transportation of bridal party to ceremony and reception site all professional reception services, food, drinks, decorations, music, etc. Bride buys wedding gifts for her attendants and the groom.
Groom's FamilyBride's engagement and wedding ring engagement party (it should follow any festivities hosted by the bride's family) a rehearsal dinner groom's thank-you notes personal stationery groom's formalwear his mother's dress, his father's formalwear bride's bouquet, corsages for both mothers and grandmothers, boutonnieres for best man and ushers marriage license, clergy member or judge's fee limousine to airport, geplete honeymoon Groom buys wedding gifts for attendants and the bride.
AttendantsBest man and/or ushers host the bachelor party maid of honor and/or bridesmaids host a bridal shower and may host a girls night out maid of honor and bridesmaids pay for their dresses and accessories (shoes, too), ushers pay for rental of their formalwear attendants who live in the area may offer out of town attendants a place to stay attendants may give wedding gifts individually, or pool their resources for a group gift Options to share Bride's or groom's family may offer heirloom rings bride's family may host the rehearsal dinner bride or her family may pay for bridesmaids dresses and accessories, groom or his family may pay for ushers rentals bouquets may be purchased by bride's family, bride may give corsages to mothers and grandmothers couple may cover all ceremony costs one family may pay for photography, the other for videography, the groom's parents or the couple may pay for any extra prints either family may arrange for transportation, babysitters, a welgee buffet for out of town guests, or lodging for out of town attendants groom's family may offer to share reception costs, or cover specific services (liquor, musicians, etc.) couple may buy thank-you gifts for parents and friends or relatives who helped with planning
2004 OBI,All Rights Reserved, Worldwide
How do I find Bank Notes from a particular country?
This guide is possible a negative suggestion to many, but remember we must have both negative and positive on a battery to make our flash lights shine. I hope this will shine a light on your interests in World Bank Notes whether you are buying, selling or both on okay. I have been doing both since August, 1997. Oh my goodness that was the last century! Well here it is, both the negative poles and positive poles. First, and this may sound silly, look at a map and notice that North is usually at the top and South is usually at the bottom and East is usually to the right, and West is usually at the left. That is all you really need to know when you look at a map or world globe. Now for the Bank Note listings on okay:
HOW WILL WORLD BUYERS FIND ME WHEN THEY HAVE TO KNOW THAT BANK NOTES (PAPER MONEY) IS UNDER COINS?Coins should not be a catch-all for what is really Numismatics. In order for customers to find World Bank Notes (paper money) on okay, they must look under "coins". How would someone interested in buying bank notes for their art; historical; and investment value know to look under the coin heading? Here is a more logical break-down "Numismatics" with subheadings of Bank Notes
HOW WILL WORLD BUYERS FIND ME WHEN THEY HAVE TO KNOW THAT BANK NOTES (PAPER MONEY) IS UNDER COINS?Coins should not be a catch-all for what is really Numismatics. In order for customers to find World Bank Notes (paper money) on okay, they must look under "coins". How would someone interested in buying bank notes for their art; historical; and investment value know to look under the coin heading? Here is a more logical break-down "Numismatics" with subheadings of Bank Notes
Trail of the Painted Ponies
Are you a horse lover, or do you know one? If you are,The Trail of the Painted Ponies is the collectible for you. First started in Sante Fe New Mexico,The Trail is spreading across the country like Wildfire. And yes,Wildfire is one of their highly sought after Ponies.
There are currently 7 heards of Ponies to date. I am a new collector , so the following info might not be 100% correct, but it should be at least 95%. The Trailadds a new herdof around 8 Ponies twice a year, not encluding their Christmas heard of 4, whichis released before Christmas. They also retire(discontinue) about 6 Ponies near the same time of the realase of the new herd. I guess I should mention that these Ponies are 6"figurines, originated from life size Ponies made, and auctioned off for charties in New Mexico. Each of these Ponies also have different talented artist that design and paint them. There is a story behind each Pony too.
Retired Ponies?? These are the ones that are going up in value everyday. But first let's talk about edition numbers. Each Pony is given a number. The numbers start with 1E/0001-1E/9,999. Then 2E/0001-2E/9,999 and so on. Some Ponies are already in their 11th edition. Yes!! 11E/????. There is also pre E Ponies.These were the first ponies made,where no edition number was put on them till 3,600. Good luck finding these precious Ponies.
Now, for the highly sought after retired Ponies. Like I said before, The Trail retires around 8-12 ponies a year. The first group of 6 Ponies were retired in March, 2004. Then 5 more in September of 2004. There are 27 retired Ponies to date,not encluding Christmas Ponies. Retired Ponies of 2004 are your most sought after collectables. Although these Ponies were sold in stores for less then $30, they are now going for $200-$400+. Some of the retired Ponies have less then 10,000 available. Most retirees have around 15,000 available.
I have never collected anything in my life,but have fell in love with The Trail of the Painted Ponies. My favorite thing about my cross-cultlral journey with my Ponies is the artist and stories that are behind each one. I have also made several new PONY PAL friends.The artist that I have gee in contact with have been some of the nicest and most caring people that I have ever met. And besides having a Pony on The Trail, they also have beautiful art work. These artist have opend my eyes to the totally awesome world of art.
You will not find many, if any items of mine, for sale on okay. I only sell items to help finance my new found love of art and Painted Ponies. Be careful in starting your new colledtion. The Trail has a way of taking ahold of you and not letting go. Thanks for reading my guide.I hope it was helpful.
Happy Painted Pony Trails and Happy Bidding!!
Robin
There are currently 7 heards of Ponies to date. I am a new collector , so the following info might not be 100% correct, but it should be at least 95%. The Trailadds a new herdof around 8 Ponies twice a year, not encluding their Christmas heard of 4, whichis released before Christmas. They also retire(discontinue) about 6 Ponies near the same time of the realase of the new herd. I guess I should mention that these Ponies are 6"figurines, originated from life size Ponies made, and auctioned off for charties in New Mexico. Each of these Ponies also have different talented artist that design and paint them. There is a story behind each Pony too.
Retired Ponies?? These are the ones that are going up in value everyday. But first let's talk about edition numbers. Each Pony is given a number. The numbers start with 1E/0001-1E/9,999. Then 2E/0001-2E/9,999 and so on. Some Ponies are already in their 11th edition. Yes!! 11E/????. There is also pre E Ponies.These were the first ponies made,where no edition number was put on them till 3,600. Good luck finding these precious Ponies.
Now, for the highly sought after retired Ponies. Like I said before, The Trail retires around 8-12 ponies a year. The first group of 6 Ponies were retired in March, 2004. Then 5 more in September of 2004. There are 27 retired Ponies to date,not encluding Christmas Ponies. Retired Ponies of 2004 are your most sought after collectables. Although these Ponies were sold in stores for less then $30, they are now going for $200-$400+. Some of the retired Ponies have less then 10,000 available. Most retirees have around 15,000 available.
I have never collected anything in my life,but have fell in love with The Trail of the Painted Ponies. My favorite thing about my cross-cultlral journey with my Ponies is the artist and stories that are behind each one. I have also made several new PONY PAL friends.The artist that I have gee in contact with have been some of the nicest and most caring people that I have ever met. And besides having a Pony on The Trail, they also have beautiful art work. These artist have opend my eyes to the totally awesome world of art.
You will not find many, if any items of mine, for sale on okay. I only sell items to help finance my new found love of art and Painted Ponies. Be careful in starting your new colledtion. The Trail has a way of taking ahold of you and not letting go. Thanks for reading my guide.I hope it was helpful.
Happy Painted Pony Trails and Happy Bidding!!
Robin
BUYING OLD VINTAGE CAST IRON COOK WARE
. My husband I have bought and sold cast iron for many years.We have kept many peicesfor ourselves and our family members.I believe if people are to collect something, they should really like it.Thats what makes collecting fun. I like Cast Iron cookware because it is durability and also that it can be used for a lifetime. My father enjoyed cooking in cast iron, He was the cook in are house most of the time, since my mother passed away at a very young age.Hetaught me how to seasoncast ironpans. The way he did it was he would washthe pan and dry it well. It is very important to dry the pan right away to avoid rust. Then he wouldadd about 1/2 teaspoon of lard orpam cooking spray. he rubbed it around all sides and bottom of the cast iron. Then he would heat it up on the stove for a few minutes. This would make the surface more slick and non-stick. I remember when he would cook eggs or potatoes he would evenly spread salt on the bottom and then put the oil. and heated it up.The egg seemed to slide better instead of stick.Many people still use it today. Some of us still haveour Mothers and Grandmothers pots and pans, and some ofthese pansdateback to a hundred years or more. Some of this Cast iron cookwarecan be very valuable. There are brands like Griswold and Wagner that can even fetchhundreds or even into thethousands of dollars. The greatestthing is that we still use them for our favorite recipes.today. Some of my favorites meals to cook in these fineold pans our fried chicken, corn bread, chilli beans, and of course fried potatoes. Does this food taste better in these pans? I think so. but that is my opinion. It seems to cook more evenly and stay hotter longer, being that cast iron holds in heat well. Many of us still use these pans while camping, hunting and fishing. Cast iron ware is awonderful useable cooking tool that holds many traditional and family memories. l knowwhen I use mine I still think of myFather and and all the wonderful cookinghe did in these pans. Thank you for viewing. ginlee370
s Seller Form Reply for Lower Value on Customs Form
Here is a form reply-letter I use in response to an international buyer's request to mark the Shipping Customs Form as a gift or to lie about the value of the contents so they can avoid paying taxes. I have this published so I can copy and paste it when I need it. Feel free to copy this form letter in part or whole, if you have any use for it.
Dear Buyer:
Thank you for this opportunity to serve you. I'm very happy to confirm that everything I publish is accurate and honest. I have described your item to the best of my ability, and you will receive exactly what is pictured, and I follow through on all of my terms of service- including prompt shipping, and careful packaging.
I love your country and appreciate your business. Your country uses the customs fee to pay those who carefully inspect and deliver all packages received. Your beautiful country has laws pertaining to all imported goods, and I am happy to obey your country's laws.
In keeping with the above theme, please rest assured that all custom forms are filled out accurately and honestly. I'm sorry, but I cannot mark your purchase as a gift on the Customs form. Please be wary of sellers who might agree to cheat your country, because they might also cheat you. I will do neither.
Sincerely, Seller
My Store: Polar Express Gifts
Dear Buyer:
Thank you for this opportunity to serve you. I'm very happy to confirm that everything I publish is accurate and honest. I have described your item to the best of my ability, and you will receive exactly what is pictured, and I follow through on all of my terms of service- including prompt shipping, and careful packaging.
I love your country and appreciate your business. Your country uses the customs fee to pay those who carefully inspect and deliver all packages received. Your beautiful country has laws pertaining to all imported goods, and I am happy to obey your country's laws.
In keeping with the above theme, please rest assured that all custom forms are filled out accurately and honestly. I'm sorry, but I cannot mark your purchase as a gift on the Customs form. Please be wary of sellers who might agree to cheat your country, because they might also cheat you. I will do neither.
Sincerely, Seller
My Store: Polar Express Gifts
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