Pardon my ignorance, newbie scrapper here, but what's wrong with them? They look OK to me. ^^^^^ When I looked at the preview, it almost looked as though there were jagged edges along the inner circle of the frame on the right, 2nd down from the top.
Same here. Maybe she bought the item and it's more apparent full-size? But in that preview- nothing I could see wrong. ^^^^^ You must not have looked at anything very hard, or you would have read the description that said "Erica is such a darling! She made these wonderful photo mats for you! They are so versatile!" ...and then you would have probably noticed that they're free, and you don't need to pay to download and check them out up close.
Instead of the opening being perfectly round, the top of the circle in the round mat looks like it was chopped off a bit, causing it and the bevel of the mat to have a flat edge.
You must not have looked at anything very hard, or you would have read the description that said "Erica is such a darling! She made these wonderful photo mats for you! They are so versatile!" ...and then you would have probably noticed that they're free, and you don't need to pay to download and check them out up close.
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No. Didn't look at prices, just the graphic.I'm a designer, not a scrapper. I don't download or buy much at all. Even had I looked and seen it was free, it wasn't worth that much time or effort since I would not have used it in the long run. So, did you actually download and look at 100%?
Flat circles means the edges of the circles are not completely rounded. This caused the inside of the frame and the inner frame outline to appear not perfectly rounded as well.
I do see it, but I had to really look. I don't think it would have been a big deal for printing.
Erica Zane's freebie. OP: Doesn't that just drive you crazy? It will not print out okay. It is terrible. If you can't see that and you're a scrapper, then ok. If you're a designer, then you'd better take a close look at your flat-sided circles. I wouldn't fix it -- too time consuming because of the shadows. I will just wave it goodbye.
On the template question from the previous page: I'm assuming you design some templates and are asking those questions for a reason. Here's an example of a great little template design with poor execution. Many of the spaces between the daily blocks are off by a small margin. Many of the photo masks inside the blocks are off, too.
http://everydayimagination.blogspot.com/
The design is pretty and it's worth my time to fix. To fix this, use a 3px x 3600 pixel straight edge and put it up against any edges you want matched. Use your arrow keys to move the piece you want moved. It will move everything selected by one px. Rotate and do the vertical edges.
For the blocks inside the frames, use a smaller master sizer about an inch long and the width of the distance you want between the frame and block. I think I used 6 pixels on this. Resize the block if it doesn't meet the master sizer. THEN the blank distance between the dates ("jan xx") and the frame is off. This is tricky because as soon as you make that distance the same, you might lose your 'centeredness' - the date might be equidistant to the line, but it might not be centered on the line. I use a script I wrote, so I can't tell you how to easily fix it.
I like this template because it has a 1 px feather on the edges and the corners are not perfect. I consider this artistic and not a flaw. Other people may not like this, but I like my things to blend to the texture of the page and not sit on top of it.
Speaking of spacing, WA is often the opposite of templates because you QC from a 20% perspective. Does it look right? Templates are done at a 150% or higher check. If you design WA then manually kern things to look right.
Wouldn't it be easier to use the align tools in PS to fix those? Would take a few minutes.
And I agree, that wordart is really bad - the text is way too far apart, there is nothing interesting in the font or the spacing, and its too far away from the tree.
I have some information. I think I might have seen where you can purchase a huge set of rolled flower alphas for $19.95 but I can't remember where, it might have been With Love Studio, no, on second thought maybe it was Hummmmmie's store, well, no I guess I'm not sure where. Some borders and brushes and turds, and buttons, and were going to be thrown in and if you hold your mouth just right you might can have the whole store thrown in as well. Oh, and I don't think they were QC'd so maybe someone here can offer to do that for them. Oh, and are you aware that one of the top stores is closing soon? No, not SM but that other store, uh um, is it SBG? No, I think it might be SO, oh yeah, SO and SDD are finally going to come together and make one big super store. I think they might swallow up TLP and TDC, too, wow, that's going to be one big ass store! I bet they will want lots of smack, um, I mean publicity, tossed around here 'cause it's so um, informative n shit. I'll let you know if I have any more informative, useful, practical, and relatively polite shit to tell you.
Oh, wait, I forgot one tidbit. Did you know that Carly Dee aka Queen of Hearts is finally showing the world her fugly face? Holy shizz, Batman! Next up will be Hummmmmmmie without the bubble!
I wasn't aware that digital scrapbooking was a beauty contest but from what I see there is plenty of fugliness going around town. Have you seen the ugly at SSD? I meant people not kits.
Now Erica Zane? I dont see any issues with her kits. Unless I don't inspect them good enough and I missed something.
I have some information. I think I might have seen where you can purchase a huge set of rolled flower alphas for $19.95 but I can't remember where, it might have been With Love Studio, no, on second thought maybe it was Hummmmmie's store, well, no I guess I'm not sure where. Some borders and brushes and turds, and buttons, and were going to be thrown in and if you hold your mouth just right you might can have the whole store thrown in as well. Oh, and I don't think they were QC'd so maybe someone here can offer to do that for them. Oh, and are you aware that one of the top stores is closing soon? No, not SM but that other store, uh um, is it SBG? No, I think it might be SO, oh yeah, SO and SDD are finally going to come together and make one big super store. I think they might swallow up TLP and TDC, too, wow, that's going to be one big ass store! I bet they will want lots of smack, um, I mean publicity, tossed around here 'cause it's so um, informative n shit. I'll let you know if I have any more informative, useful, practical, and relatively polite shit to tell you.
I'm guessing this was sarcasm? Unless is it someones manic rant about nothing. Drink some coffee.
Any good blog trains or freebies besides SBG? I get tired of downloading crap. I figured this is the best place to come for what is good or bad. LOL I do know the SBG train was worthless and a waste of my time.
I honestly don't think that the quality of digi products has gone downhill, I do think that the average scrapper's knowledge of what constitutes quality has increased though. As most of them are getting more and more familiar with their programs, they are more likely to see when something is off.
Just my two cents.
The quality? It is still as shitty as it was before. In some cases it is worse. Designers seem to rush to put out more product that the quality is lacking or they reuse the same doodled elements over and over again. Like Lauren Grier. Some of her shit is blurry. I dont't remember have much quality issues with her before but recently it has been terrible. I don't think it was to do with learning a program, I think it has to do with not rushing to get product out.
Does anyone know where Micheline Martin is going? She has guested at TLP for a few months now and is leaving A5D, but I can't see them taking her on. She uses the same paper patterns on all her papers. One pack looks just like the last one but with different colors. I would think that TLP would keep to the handmade and original store they claim they are. Then again they do have Gina Miller there. She likes to overuse Miss Tiina.
I think they were talking about ugly as in the way people at SSD look. Not as in drama. Though I think the designers at SSD are stuck up and their designs are terrible.
Wow wow wow someone is on an angry rant this morning. I'd bet my left foot that many/most of the posts just above mine were made by the same person. Forget to take your meds this morning, did you? Calm down, lass, you're manic (and mean-spirited, too, I might add).
Let's get back to the more interesting discussion we were having before crazy rambled through... I like the informative turn the blog had just taken, and would prefer not to see it derailed.
For instance, a couple of weeks ago someone mentioned something about being irritated that some designers don't know how to properly apply texture to white papers and elements. Anyone care to describe how they achieve this? I'm curious as to the best way to do this.
Does anyone know where Micheline Martin is going? She has guested at TLP for a few months now and is leaving A5D, but I can't see them taking her on. She uses the same paper patterns on all her papers. One pack looks just like the last one but with different colors. I would think that TLP would keep to the handmade and original store they claim they are. Then again they do have Gina Miller there. She likes to overuse Miss Tiina.
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I cannot imagine that Micheline would leave After 5 if she didn't already have a new home lined up. My guess is that she is, in fact, staying at TLP. If so, it lends even more credence to what I've said in the past, which is that TLP is not the be-all-end-all store that some of you like to profess here on this blog all of the time. I really don't understand all of the hype. It's above-average IMO, yes, but it's not what I would consider to be the best/top shop around.
TLP prides themselves on being " unique and using little to no CU products". They said that in an interview at MSA. If that is the case, why is Gina Miller there? Can the owners not see that Gina has way to much fun using Miss Tiina's stuff. I don't see her being unique or handmade at all. Same with Micheline. It's not really her elements, though she does tend to use the same ones in many of her kits. It's the papers. Same patterns, different colors. I guess TLP isn't as unique as they thought. It is a good store. They do have some unique designers who hand make thier stuff. I just don't see her being a fit there.
Textures on white paper. I have not figured out how to do that the right way. It barely shows any texture at all when I apply one. I would love to know how one does the white paper/texture thing the right way.
Start with a light grey texture and duplicate it. Change the blend mode of the duplicated layer to screen or soft light. Keep doing this and play with the opacity of the different layers until you are happy with the look you achieve.
Theres no set rule, it just depends on the shade of the texture you start with, and what type of texture it is.
The trick to texture on white paper is never use white. Use something that looks like white, and use it on ALL the white parts and elements in your kit so there is no direct contrast. You can go taupey-white, goldy-white, pinky white greenie-white...you'll see. It will look white if you have that lightness bar way up to almost white. I want very, very light to ALMOST white, so white that when you see it in your materials palette you'd swear it was white not a Royanna white, and that texture will pop right out.
P.S. You shouldn't be using white, anyway. It doesn't print (no white ink) and leaves a dull sheen (visibly blank area) on printed books or layouts. For the colors to use, see if you have any white textures in your stash and you'll see what colors the CU designers use. I just opened a random one and got this color f4f4f2 and another that had this one fbfbf9
I use fdfcfa quite a bit, as it looks white but has a warmth to it that works with most kits/products I create, except the ones that are filled with solely blue or purple shades (or even cool greens), in which case I use a greyer white.
Honestly, none. I think all stores have their issues. They just don't make it known.
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Agreed. I don't think there is any one "best" shop. I think it depends on the customers. For those who want more whimsical and realistic styled kits & elements, or are into art journaling = SBG. For those who want a cutesy paper-scrapped "Hobby Lobby aisle" look to their kits = SSD. For those who want more doodles and hand-painted textures and elements = TLP. For those who want a good mix of paper style kits along with some art-journalish products thrown in like Viva Artistry = TDC. For those who want shabby, vintage, weathered looking products = Shabby Princess or Gina Cabrera. Obviously there are a lot more shops out there, but those listed above would be the first shops I would think of for each of those categories or styles.
I think that designers should ask one or two girls to bump every so often. Not all in one day. It does get annoying when a designer emails and says, Please bump this, and it's been bumped already by 6 other girls. Can it not wait till later?
I never ask my CT to bump my ads. This is also why my ads rarely have responses, LOL. But I have found that it's more interesting to go back and look at a post and see it's "viewed" count later and know that those views are not necessarily my CT, but potential customers. Comparing those numbers against my eventual sales is always interesting, not that I really have time for that. But it would be interesting.
um, it was kinda tooooo manic. not enough giggle and a little too much crazy. you forget that there have actually been a few psychos that have posted here in recent weeks and rambled just like that, but in seriousness. so, hard to tell the difference when we don't know if it's them posting again or not. kwim?
Sometimes on white papers if you put a layer on multiple and put the opacity really low - like 5 or 6 - and then put a layer on top that is soft light at 100%, you'll see the texture ... to see the difference turn off the multiply layer ... it doesn't always work, and sometimes the multiple layer needs tweaking for opacity ... it its to low you don't see it and if its too high its too gray. But its worth a try.
"No, I think it might be SO, oh yeah, SO and SDD are finally going to come together and make one big super store. I think they might swallow up TLP and TDC, too, wow, that's going to be one big ass store"
Though I sometimes wish there was just one mega store with all the designers in it. All the good ones anyway.
There is a kinda new store that has become a "mega" store pretty fast, and with a lot of designers. There are a small few who really don't fit in (their quality is lower) but most of the designers are pretty good. Their facebook page has almost 12,000 fans - higher than any other shops I've seen.
What do you all think about the event that SO is hosting? I've been following their giveaways and only 15 even enter.
December 17, 2011 10:52 AM
Do you mean the Las Vegas one? The classes seem really interesting and it sounds like it was a good time last year. It's just way too expensive for me,especially since I have to add in a flight. If I lived in a closer state where driving was possible I'd definitely consider it.
There is a kinda new store that has become a "mega" store pretty fast, and with a lot of designers. There are a small few who really don't fit in (their quality is lower) but most of the designers are pretty good. -----
Actually, I would say a few of them are good and most of them are average and not worth my time.
Mymemories is a software company that sells kits as a side-line to enhance their soft-ware sales. They're trying to replace photoshop as a way to scrap. That's why they have so many fans on FB. It has very little to do with the designers who work there.
Just downloaded The Daily Digi for December. You would think if you are trying to promote yourself by basically giving away a 'free' kit, it would be good quality. This is their chance to win some customers.
I just looked at Dawn Inskip's doodles and they are horrible. Most have to be cleaned up - the pen marks are just - off. Some double in places. Just horribly done all around.
I'm attempting to hold a designer competition (oh, I need more time in the day!) and am looking for people to offer CU attendance donations to give to each participate who finishes the challenge.
I have the contest information up here: http://www.bit.ly/DestinationDesign
Please contact me if you are willing to donate or post to let me know of people I can contact. I appreciate your help. __________________
the link to her forum for details...cuz I know you are all dying to join up!
yeah, LOL - but i think i can top that. crusing thru DST, checking out freebies - i'm bored. come across this one.
http://neverlandscrapsstore.blogspot.com/
what gets me is in the description. if you see this kit..#1 - what do girl scout cookies have to do with this? #2 - um....ok so all the word tabs are just plain weird. but...this one? what on earth?
"Shrink the moon . . .I sit on the toilet" Wordtab
Not the OP, but I haven't seen it. From the looks of what stuff this "designer" is offering, she is another Disney ripoff person. and no, I haven't seen the movie - but even so - that toilet word tab is just weird....
Not the OP, but I haven't seen it. From the looks of what stuff this "designer" is offering, she is another Disney ripoff person. From the looks of it, they are making freebies from people's request at a certain Disney digiscrapping board and not making any money, unlike other Disney rip-off artists like Britt-ish Designs http://www.brittishdesigns.com/shop/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=5&zenid=6vc4l0l0n2a3stjdh5604adl63
Kellybell Designs http://kellybelldesigns.blogspot.com/ and many other designers who make profit off of such requests.
The jaggies on the split paper, the floating text, the horrible "garland"....such low quality they should be ashamed
LMAO!! Well, finally we have a company of business professionals, who have non-digi-scrappers who are doing the ads, running the site, promoting the products, developing software and continually improving it... allowing the designers to simply DESIGN and not worry about the rest of the crap, and wouldn't you know, someone isn't happy about that!
Well, I am VERY happy to not have to waste my time on all of the administrative and business headaches, just concentrate on designing, while a whole professional team of business-people bring the (MANY) customers right to my door.
Although I agree the ad could have been (much) better, I know that, in all likelihood, it was someone from the (gasp!) marketing department who made it, not a digi-scrapper or designer.
Thank goodness you seem to be in very much a minority with your ad-snobbishness. And if you don't want to sell in such a store, good for you, (and good for me, less competition) but you're making a decision based on your (faulty) assumption that beautiful ads means great sales. I know better. :)
@8:09 - So you don't think the advertising should be representative of the products sold? Yeah that's all well and good that you have a marketing department, but if the advertising is going to look that unprofessional, I'd rather be a snob and do it myself.
The whole point is, apparently those ads are drawing in the customers, and bringing in sales - and very good sales, at that. And THAT is what matters in the end.
Thank goodness you seem to be in very much a minority with your ad-snobbishness. And if you don't want to sell in such a store, good for you, (and good for me, less competition) but you're making a decision based on your (faulty) assumption that beautiful ads means great sales. I know better. :)
December 18, 2011 8:09 PM
I guess I'm an ad snob too, because that ad is hideous. Isn't the whole point of an ad to draw in customers? You may have a "marketing team" at your store, but if they have zero skills at creating an effective ad graphic, how much is your marketing team really worth? If I let my 5 year old son create an ad for me, can I call him my marketing team?? I think he could probably make something at least as attractive as your store's ad. And having a marketing team makes me better than other designers by your definition right?
Your argument about having a professional store team really means nothing to me. Your idea and my idea of "great sales" might be totally different. You might think that making $500 per month means you are making great sales. Where I might consider $500 per month my worst month ever. I just picked a random amount there since I have no way of knowing how much you are making. And along those lines, since you have no idea how much all of the designers in other stores are making, you really have no way of knowing how much better/worse your sales are than anyone else's.
How can any designer really make great sales even with a marketing team when they're stuck in the middle of a gazillion designers unless you the designer are also marketing your own product and bringing in your own customers?
I know that quality counts but I've been in this business for awhile and I've honestly come to the conclusion that those that market best make the best sales.
What you don't know is that 99 % of the customers at that store won't go and never went in other digiscrap stores. You don't promote there like you would in any typical stores either. You don't promote your products there like you would do in regular stores.
I know that quality counts but I've been in this business for awhile and I've honestly come to the conclusion that those that market best make the best sales.
I have NOT been in this business a while, and would love some seasoned designers' opinions on best marketing practices.
What you don't know is that 99 % of the customers at that store won't go and never went in other digiscrap stores. You don't promote there like you would in any typical stores either. You don't promote your products there like you would do in regular stores. ------ But if they would like more customers (and really -- who wouldn't??), and want to attract "regular" digiscrappers, they should work on quality. That "ad" was beyond horrid and as a digiscrapper who doesn't usually shop there, I wouldn't go there based on that ad.
^^^ We tend to think that the digisworld as we know it is huge. Yes it is huge, but the world of non-digiscrappers is even wider so if a digiscrap ad will attrack current digiscrappers, maybe the not-yet-digiscrappers are more numerous. So maybe they are not after the already-scrapping crowd, but the others.
I work in marketing and can tell you that one of the things marketing people know is how to make things look attractive. So that "marketing dept." is not very good at what they do. Wonder if they'd hire me as a freelance since there's so much money flowing over there. At least I know how to use Photoshop AND the My Memories software. It's bad advertisement of their product as well as the designers who sell there.
To the crazy rant lady - I knew if was a sarcastic joke - many here seem to have no sense of humor or perhaps it gets lost in the translation.
WTF is with GoDigitalScrapbooking? I downloaded one freebie from them and now they keep inundating me with their fugly newsletter. Talk about a way to alienate potential customers!
WTF is with GoDigitalScrapbooking? I downloaded one freebie from them and now they keep inundating me with their fugly newsletter. Talk about a way to alienate potential customers! ----- Unsubscribe. If they don't have a way for you to unsubscribe from the list, they're breaking the law. If you unsubscribe and they STILL send you mail, they're breaking the law. You can report them.
People who ignore these rules irritate the hell out of me--and for the life of me, I don't see how sending email to people who don't want it helps a business in any way for the exact reason you stated above.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ I agree. I see on their latest newsletter that it may take several weeks for a request to be processed. It shouldn't take several weeks. It should be automated and immediate.
What you don't know is that 99 % of the customers at that store won't go and never went in other digiscrap stores. -----
You don't have to go into other digi scrap stores to see that that ad is aesthetically unpleasing. All you need is eyes. Unless those customers live in a box, they'll have seen other sorts of ads marketing other kinds of goods. You would honestly need to be blind not to that ad is awful.
The jaggies on the split paper, the floating text, the horrible "garland"....such low quality they should be ashamed
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Has anyone looked through the layouts submitted by customers at the My Memories site? In all honesty, it would appear to me that their customers wouldn't think twice about or be fazed at all by that ad, as many of their pages are similarly basic and (what many of us would consider) awful. It's definitely not a site for advanced scrappers, and they're obviously targeting beginning newbies who don't know any better.
The ad is hideous, but the site is probably a great starting point for a lot of people. Many of us got our starts at places that we wouldn't dream of buying from today, and many of us didn't start with Photoshop.
Look for the cream of My Memories customers to find your shop in 6 months or a year. These things have a progression and the better scrappers will start branching out and seeing what other things are available. For me, this started with freebies I found online, and from there, links to stores.
^^^^^^ Not so sure about that. Look at who the top designer is - KStudio and look at what she's offering the most of - templates. Which are actually quickpages.
Templates/Quickpages that fit into the mymemories software. Create scrapbook pages in minutes - that's what these people want, not to get better at making a layout.
But the whole My Memories conversation started with someone saying she would like to see one mega store with all the best designers. Then someone came along who said My Memories was that store. While it may be a good store for purely recreational scrappers, and it may be a money maker, do you really think it's what the original poster had in mind when she brought up the idea of a mega store? I don't think it is, if it can't produce ads that appeal to serious scrappers.
^^^^^^ Not so sure about that. Look at who the top designer is - KStudio and look at what she's offering the most of - templates. Which are actually quickpages.
^^^ Different definitions for difference stores :/ I find it weird myself and I'm a designer there.
The ad is hideous, but the site is probably a great starting point for a lot of people. -----
Just because someone is a beginner, doesn't mean they can't see hideous. Like I mentioned before, unless they are living a box, they will have seen ads before and the My Memories ad is hideous. If I was learning to scrap, that ad would not appeal to me. Besides which, the ad was supposedly created by a marketing department, whom I assume to be non beginners.
It's definitely not a site for advanced scrappers, and they're obviously targeting beginning newbies who don't know any better. ---
Why wouldn't they know any better? Does being a beginner automatically make someone stupid? I don't think it does. I remember when I first started scrapping way back in 2004 when there weren't a lot of sites out there. Yet there were some I definitely stayed away from because the pages in the galleries weren't that good. Just because I was a beginner, it didn't mean I didn't know the difference between good and bad. And yeah, yeah, I know the world doesn't revolve around me, but clearly I wasn't the only one who thought like that because some of those early sites flourished, while others didn't. The ones I stayed away from didn't survive.
Has anyone looked through the layouts submitted by customers at the My Memories site? In all honesty, it would appear to me that their customers wouldn't think twice about or be fazed at all by that ad, as many of their pages are similarly basic and (what many of us would consider) awful. It's definitely not a site for advanced scrappers, and they're obviously targeting beginning newbies who don't know any better. December 20, 2011 6:51 AM Anonymous said...
^^^ And like it or not, that IS a huge market!
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This is exactly why Gotta Pixel is also so successful.
When I first started scrapping, I thought DSP was the only company with a website selling things to print at home. I had no idea there was such a thriving and varied community. My guess is people first find somebody like Jessica Sprague, 3Ps, Renee Pearson or My Memories through an article in a regular scrapbook magazine/book or a mention by somebody like Ali Edwards. They might even run across these places with a weird Google search string, and if they are truly new, then they think they've found the only game in town.
People on this blog came to the conclusion a couple years ago that the market is saturated and what is needed is a new customer base. My Memories did just that, and good for them. New customers to digiland will only help us all in the end, and there are very few shops with the manpower to devote to absolute newbies who don't know how to stack a couple layers or post a LO online.
Sounds like a bunch of elitists to me. Since when is trying to scrap memories something that has to be a thing of great talent or beauty. I've been a designer for a long while and though what I would consider successful at designing, I still can't scrap worth two beans. I enjoy making my pages and the only ones who I really think give two hoots are the ones I make my pages for. I mean come on, not everyone scraps beautiful pages. I think a good many just want to get memories made for family later and not take a lot of time or effort doing it. They could care less if they have shadows going the right way or a page that says nothing but looks good. I think many have lost the whole idea behind scrapbooking. For CT and galleries it's become more art then hobby-to me that's really sad.
Even the one who asked about whether they liked the artsy preview vs. what use to be a more normal preview at DST got all these posts saying they wanted the artsy preview. WTF I seriously doubt that is what is selling kits these days. Most normal scrappers don't give to hoots about artsy fartsy. ROFL They want to see what the heck is in the darn kit and whether they can make use of it or not. You can hide a whole lot of mistakes by making artsy previews where everything is on top of everything else!!
I agree with both of you. I think these might be the "real" scrappers. They scrap for themselves and not to for you and your profit. If you don't like layouts like these you should just quit designing.
Yes I sell at My Memories and to be honest I love when a new scrapper email me or post on my page layouts they have created. They have what some in regular store have: the joy of creating.
So many of these comments smack of scrap-snobbery. I'm a designer and know plenty of scrappers who've been digi scrapping way longer than me - and totally love it - but you'd never see their pages make the GSO blog or Me So Scrappy. They've probably never heard of SO or SSD. But guess what - their memories matter just as much as the mamarazzi that spend a ton of cash on fancy lens and photo treatment actions.
No one said it didn't, so I'm not sure what your post is about. No one said they didn't matter or were unimportant. People did say they were beginners, that is all.
Those of you who are carrying on about scrap elitism, scrap snobbery and art vs scrapping are bringing up something that up until now, no one was even talking about.
You are tying to make an issue out of something that doesn't exist.
^^ I was merely pointing out that some "beginner" looking layouts are from those who have been scrapping for years - and do so because THEY love their work, and don't give a damn whether anyone else does.
Regarding your comment about "those of you" discussing "scrap elitism" and "scrap snobbery" - there's more than one of us here - and guess what - we're the designers doing well - we're not prissy snots, we're not store hopping divas, we're loyal to our stores, but first and foremost to our customers. We help them as they grow - but don't expect them to get a million "likes" in the Digital Scrapbooking layouts gallery on FB or get a million comments in galleries. Sure it's nice if they do, but the people I've built a solid and loyal fan base are the ones who do it for themselves, not for the acclaim and fame and compliments of others.
Regarding your comment about "those of you" discussing "scrap elitism" and "scrap snobbery" - there's more than one of us here --------
Yes, which is why I said 'those', which implies more than one. Sigh.
I'm not sure how to address the rest of your comment. You seem to be trying to convince someone of something. Are you trying to convince yourself? I'm really not sure.
Scrapbooking layouts gallery on FB or get a million comments in galleries. Sure it's nice if they do, but the people I've built a solid and loyal fan base are the ones who do it for themselves, not for the acclaim and fame and compliments of others. -----
If they aren't doing it for the compliments of others, why are the posting in galleries?
we're not prissy snots, we're not store hopping divas, we're loyal to our stores, but first and foremost to our customers. We help them as they grow - but don't expect them to get a million "likes" in the Digital Scrapbooking layouts gallery on FB or get a million comments in galleries. ------
Are you sure you aren't a prissy snot? Coz you sure do sound like one right about now.
My Memories looks interesting - I always thought it was only for their software but knowing its not makes it more interesting. Do they do designer calls or how do you get on board with them?
I'm sure that the person who has been rabidly promoting My Memories will come back here and tell you how to get on board there. It kind of looks to me like they are willing to accept any designer that is about average in talent, so it seems like most designers would have a good chance.
I have friends who sell there, and they have told me that they really don't make that much selling at My Memories. And a couple of them are listed as top designers there.
So I guess that miss non-elitist, never-a-prissy-snot or diva might not be doing quite as well in comparison to the other designers out there as she thought she was.
i knew Hummie read this blog. Changed her photo at DST to a non bubble blowing one. and took the crap about DST not liking her out of her signature. Whatsa matta Hummie? Finally realize how foolish you can be?
So I guess that miss non-elitist, never-a-prissy-snot or diva might not be doing quite as well in comparison to the other designers out there as she thought she was. ------
Don't forget her use of the royal 'we'. She wasn't just speaking for herself, but apparently for every designer there! Although, I'm not so sure that some of them would agree with her, despite her confidence.
i knew Hummie read this blog. Changed her photo at DST to a non bubble blowing one. and took the crap about DST not liking her out of her signature. ------
Some of us just post our layouts there without really knowing who every member is. Since she is often talked about here, I was wondering just who she is. Is she important?
Some of us just post our layouts there without really knowing who every member is. Since she is often talked about here, I was wondering just who she is. Is she important? -------
I think she thinks she's important. But, in reality, she's just a person who is trying to open a store (after putting a lot of money into it) and is apparently not having any luck getting many designers - if any.
She is whiny and just over all annoying. I wouldn't design for her store if she offered 110% commission.
OMG I almost had a heart attack of joy when I saw at DST a thread called "Time to step away" and Outside of the box (formerly know as COLS) but I was deceived to see she only replied.
She also upgraded her name :Outside of the box designs STUDIO
'scuse us. but yes we do need to trash her. all she does is create pixelated crap with strays, jaggies and blurriness. when nothing sold when she was doing "kits" all the time..she started calling it art journaling and ripping off Tangie Baxters way of doing things. She is a know it all bitch who harps about her hardships because she is Jewish. Uh huh. no one else i know of uses that line to try to evoke sympathy from people in the digiscrap world. YOU buy her crap. YOU keep on "not trashing" her. People like her are what make this industry look bad.
and since I know she reads this blog....MERRY CHRISTMAS, AMANDA.
^^^ Wow! Angry at her a little bit? Seems like she did something to you personally. Care to share?? It's hard to believe you hate her so badly just because her designs are unappealing to you.
not the OP on the Amanda rant, but I can understand where she is coming from. If you have never had the extreme pleasure of dealing with her, then you would have no idea. She IS a know it all, she does believe that because "It's ART!" she can get away with any mess she comes up with, and it is all a mess. Her attitude is horrible - and I too, would just plain giggle the night away if she would only just go away!
Some of us just post our layouts there without really knowing who every member is. Since she is often talked about here, I was wondering just who she is. Is she important? ----
Fair enough. She's not important but she is a character of DST, if you will.
not the OP on the Amanda rant, but I can understand where she is coming from. If you have never had the extreme pleasure of dealing with her, then you would have no idea. She IS a know it all, she does believe that because "It's ART!" she can get away with any mess she comes up with, and it is all a mess. Her attitude is horrible - and I too, would just plain giggle the night away if she would only just go away! -------- I agree, as someone who did work with Ms. Amanda before she was "designing" (gag), her attitude needs some serious adjustment. I'm not going to go into great detail, but much of it was sparked by her "religious expressions". Everyone has a right to their opinion, but she felt the need to shove hers down everyone's throats. Not sure if that has changed, as I have stayed far away. Just because she calls it "art", doesn't mean the quality should be poor.
Sounds like a bunch of elitists to me. Since when is trying to scrap memories something that has to be a thing of great talent or beauty. I've been a designer for a long while and though what I would consider successful at designing, I still can't scrap worth two beans. I enjoy making my pages and the only ones who I really think give two hoots are the ones I make my pages for. I mean come on, not everyone scraps beautiful pages. I think a good many just want to get memories made for family later and not take a lot of time or effort doing it. They could care less if they have shadows going the right way or a page that says nothing but looks good. I think many have lost the whole idea behind scrapbooking. For CT and galleries it's become more art then hobby-to me that's really sad. ------
You're sounding pretty elitist to me. You are basically saying that most of those scrappers who are making beautiful pages aren't doing it for the memories, but just for the art.
How do you know that those pages that aren't saying anything, don't have journaling on the back or even journaling that they didn't care to share with everyone? You don't.
Maybe taking the time and effort to make a beautiful page is part of the process and important to them and they don't want to just make a page to get it done.
A thing of beauty is a joy forever, a thing of mediocrity is quickly forgotten.
I think a good many just want to get memories made for family later and not take a lot of time or effort doing it. --
So why not just buy a photo album and journal next to the photo if that's all you want to do. There's minimum time and effort involved in that and sounds like something a lot of those scrappers should consider. It would be much cheaper too.
Interesting to see that whoever is teaching that "special" is not even listed in the "designers". But I agree that it is an odd product to have in a digiscrap store!
I'm curious... since we're all anonymous, will anyone share how much they make designing? December 22, 2011 9:15 PM
^^^^^^^^^
I have never believed the $$ amounts people post here on earnings. Amazes me that people feel the need to exagerate when no one knows who they are! According to what is usually posted (which by the way is about every couple weeks here- its brought up OVER and OVER again - most people make over $1000 per month. Which, in my estimation is bullshit. Pure bullshit.
I often wonder whether they are posting gross or net totals which is a big difference. I usually speak in Net because that's what truly matters - how much goes in my pocket, though gross total is much more impressive LOL
I sell only PU. Two stores - Net (after commission and pay pal fees in one of them) an average of about $175 per month with a range of $100 - $300. However, last month (November with DSD etc) my net was $600.
While I know I'm not in the upper end of what designers do make - I know several who absolutely do make $1000 in a month - I also think that there are many who make less than that, probably more who make less than make more.
So yes, there may be exaggeration going on, or else several of the top end post here, or one person posts repeatedly.
Ok, I get that Krystal Hartley is gorgeous, I am not disputing that. BUT, why does she post a new photo of her self almost every damn day on FB? Of course she gets a lot of 'likes' and comments about how pretty she is so maybe that's why. And yes, I'm probably a little jealous but I don't think I would do that even if I looked as good as her.
I'm not facebook friends with her and just a basic search came up with someone - not stunning. Maybe if it really does bother you that much, hide or unfriend her? (Not snarky - just a thought).
I sell only PU. Two stores - Net (after commission and pay pal fees in one of them) an average of about $175 per month with a range of $100 - $300. However, last month (November with DSD etc) my net was $600. _________________________________
That seems like a good amount. I'd be happy to make that much honestly. For me it's more like $20, but I don't advertise that much. Do you?
You could learn the same information by watching a couple of episodes of "Extreme Couponing" on TLC.
I love that she used a kit that's not from GP to create her "preview." If I was the owner of GP, I would have insisted that the coupon workshop leader use a kit from a GP designer for her preview.
That seems like a good amount. I'd be happy to make that much honestly. For me it's more like $20, but I don't advertise that much. Do you? --------- I do advertise - all the available forums and galleries and facebook / twitter. I put product out 3-4 times a month and sometimes a couple items per release day. i have special deals each week (X% off X dollar or a free with purchase). I send my newsletter out weekly and always attach a coupon. All the advertising takes maybe an hour extra a week, but IMO, it's worth it.
That seems like a good amount. I'd be happy to make that much honestly. For me it's more like $20, but I don't advertise that much. Do you?
____________________
I try to be very visible in the store forums (host challenges, chit chat etc) and participate in store promotions. I have subscriptions at DST and DSA, have a growing email list, use my FB and blog, attempting to use twitter better. However, I do have an advertising manager who I brought on at the beginning of October and there has been a good increase in sales both from her efforts which put my name out there more and because I have more time to design and release more products.
Oh please. There is nothing wrong with someone posting pictures of herself on Facebook. That's what it's for. To share your photos and life with your friends. You obviously aren't her friend, so why don't you just unfriend her instead of coming here and posting catty bitchy things about her? Just because she happens to be pretty and posts photos does that make her conceited? What if she were ugly, would it be ok with you then? You admitted yourself that you are jealous of her. Good job trying to bring her down to make yourself feel better.
I've been designing for 5 years now and I'm not "elite" but I do have a steady following of customers. I make anywhere from $150 per month to as high as $1000. This last year has been slower for me though with most months at about $150-$400.
I plan on some redesign in the new year, a new blog, updated Facebook fan page and all around new logo's, blinkies, banners and such. I will not be changing my name or my design style because it works well for me, so why change it! lol.
I'm ok with what I make for the amount of time I put into it. If I put more time into advertising and promotions, I would expect to see that amount go up.
I started scrapping about 6 years ago using ScrapbookMax software and free kits. I was looking through some of my old layouts just a few days ago and can't believe how primitive they are! BUT, I love them just as much as my fancy schmancy layouts that I create now. It is the memories that are special and I love to look at the old layouts to see just how far my scrapping ability has become!
I'm established, I earned (after commission and PP fees) an average of $2400.00 per month this year. Of course I must still pay taxes, with SS and Medicare being doubled. So it would be less when you deduct that. You can believe it or not, but I am quite happy and grateful to my customers, store, and fellow designers. Life's good.
i would like to know which store you are in...not who..but which store, that has that kind of traffic. because honestly, sometimes its not who you are as much as where you sell.
i would like to know which store you are in...not who..but which store, that has that kind of traffic. because honestly, sometimes its not who you are as much as where you sell.
December 23, 2011 3:44 PM
-------------- If you are doing an average of $2,400 per month, it's who you are, NOT where you sell. Or maybe it would be better to say, it's a combination of having enough design talent to create eye catching and quality designs on a regular basis and lots of energy and time devoted to consistent personal marketing and promotion.
If you are doing an average of $2,400 per month, it's who you are, NOT where you sell. Or maybe it would be better to say, it's a combination of having enough design talent to create eye catching and quality designs on a regular basis and lots of energy and time devoted to consistent personal marketing and promotion.
^^^^^^^
i disagree to an extent. Traffic is extremely important to sales. You can have fantastic kits in a very low traffic shop - and sales will be miserable no matter how much promotion you have. I too changed stores, and my sales volume increased 10 fold. Ten. I haven't changed one bit, nor am I advertisizing more. Who you are has something to do with it of course....but its defintiely a combo of who and where.
i know someone says this about every blogtrain...but to me, this is seriously the ugliest stuff I have seen in a long time. so far there isn't anything i would even consider downloading (and yes the poser one is awful). Maitri (who should just GIVE UP ALREADY) is offering a styles set, which isn't even allowed. Its all crap.
Blog Train for January - "The Brown Owl" has a poser chick who is wearing very little. HOW is this 'refreshing'?
Repulsive. ----
She's wearing a bikini and not a very revealing one at that. Where the heck do you live that find that repulsive? It's not my cup of tea, but i wouldn't describe it as wearing very little either. I was expecting near nudity, not a perfectly respectable bikini.
Bow is it refreshing? Going for a swim is refreshing, going to a spa and treating yourself is refreshing.
i disagree to an extent. Traffic is extremely important to sales. You can have fantastic kits in a very low traffic shop - and sales will be miserable no matter how much promotion you have. I too changed stores, and my sales volume increased 10 fold. Ten. I haven't changed one bit, nor am I advertisizing more. Who you are has something to do with it of course....but its defintiely a combo of who and where.
December 23, 2011 6:32 PM -------- Are you bringing in an average of $2,400 per month though? I specified that before, because my point was that if you are bringing in that much, it's not because of the store you sell in. It's because of you. No store is going to bring an Plain-Jain ho-hum designer $2,400 per month. It doesn't matter what store you sell in.
I've sold in stores listed here as "top" and some listed as "middle" tier. And I've averaged the same amount in all of them. The only way to make an average of over $2000 per month in digi design, is to work your butt off. Your store isn't going to do it for you.
you know, there should be a side bar here on this blog for newcomers or those that don't read often...with topics to catchup on like "best stores" "best designers" "how much do you make", etc...so that this isn't rehashed every darn month.
Honestly - how difficult is it to read thru older posts? there is some good info in there along with the snarky stuff.
i would like to know which store you are in...not who..but which store, that has that kind of traffic. because honestly, sometimes its not who you are as much as where you sell. ____________________________
I think it does matter who. I can think of a few PU designers that would bring in that amount.
Kristin Aagard Magical Reality (although she sells CU also)
Designers I think could possibly be pulling in above $2000 per month:
Creashens Kristin Cronin Barrow Jenn Barrette Traci Reed Flergs Sahlin Studio Irene Alexeeva Jady Day Fayette Captivated Visions Secret Stash Connie Prince (based on how many people talk about her here)
I'm sure that there are more. I'm a paper type scrapper (and designer)and I don't know the fantasy designers well. I'm sure that there are a few of those who could be making that amount. I wish I was.
If you're not pulling in what you think you should be, then maybe it's time for people to take a second look at you. Do you have blog, newsletter &/or facebook freebies? Are they PERFECT? (Do you have any CT members who will tell you like it is?) Do your freebies reflect your style? If I go to your shop after downloading and seeing them up close, will I see your best work on the front page? I never heard of Captivated Visions before the huge freebie she gave out last summer, but now I am definitely a fan. I think she's good business woman, too, and here's a tip I learned from her: Don't give away a big blog or facebook freebie - use it to get people to sign up for your newsletter instead.
Even the one who asked about whether they liked the artsy preview vs. what use to be a more normal preview at DST got all these posts saying they wanted the artsy preview. -----
I've only just seen the thread you are talking about and I'm not surprised that almost everyone voted for the creative preview. The one you call 'normal' is a big mess and all blurs together.
I have to agree, the normal preview, the bottom, is horrible looking! She could have reduced the size of the elements and pulled them down to the bottom or something else. It looks like someone threw-up on that last preview! Of course everyone would pick the creative one when you compare the two previews!
If I'm buying a kit I want to know what is in the damn thing and looking at either of those previews whether artsy or methodical make me think maybe something is wrong as you can't clearly see so many of the elements. I don't need artsy to show me the kit. I want practical as I'm the one who is going to be doing the scrapping not the kit designer and I don't scrap artsy!! LOL and I'd probably never buy a kit like that as it's too fantasyish for me. Just my personal view of things.
Does anyone else look at that preview (and the preview of SO MANY Christmas kits) and wonder why designers think it's OK to uze someone else's work and call it 'designing'? Every single one of those elements that is photographed and extracted was actually designed by someone, and has copyright attached to it. I don't care if you match colors or recolor well to pull photographs into a kit, you didn't 'design' those ornaments, you shouldn't be putting them in your kits.
It happens year-round, but it seems to be SO MUCH WORSE at Christmas when everyone thinks it is OK to photograph whatever is on their tree or at the dollar store and throw it in their digital kit.
I wish that bullshit would stop. It really reflects badly on the whole industry.
I am just an average scrapper, not a designer. I am not active on any CT's, although I have been in the past. I am not active in any "scrapbook community", I don't post on the message boards, and I don't post my layouts online anymore. I read the Digi boards for entertainment, and am constantly amazed at what people share on the internet. I freely admit to reading the scrapbook smack blogs, it is a guilty pleasure.
You can email me at: DSTHallofFame@gmail.com
1,413 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1001 – 1200 of 1413 Newer› Newest»Same here. Maybe she bought the item and it's more apparent full-size? But in that preview- nothing I could see wrong.
Pardon my ignorance, newbie scrapper here, but what's wrong with them? They look OK to me.
^^^^^
When I looked at the preview, it almost looked as though there were jagged edges along the inner circle of the frame on the right, 2nd down from the top.
Same here. Maybe she bought the item and it's more apparent full-size? But in that preview- nothing I could see wrong.
^^^^^
You must not have looked at anything very hard, or you would have read the description that said "Erica is such a darling! She made these wonderful photo mats for you! They are so versatile!" ...and then you would have probably noticed that they're free, and you don't need to pay to download and check them out up close.
I'm with the PP: what IS a flat spot?
They're mats, aren't they supposed to be flat?
They're embossed and have flat spots in some areas which means they're not very well done. You can even see it in the preview.
Instead of the opening being perfectly round, the top of the circle in the round mat looks like it was chopped off a bit, causing it and the bevel of the mat to have a flat edge.
You must not have looked at anything very hard, or you would have read the description that said "Erica is such a darling! She made these wonderful photo mats for you! They are so versatile!" ...and then you would have probably noticed that they're free, and you don't need to pay to download and check them out up close.
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No. Didn't look at prices, just the graphic.I'm a designer, not a scrapper. I don't download or buy much at all. Even had I looked and seen it was free, it wasn't worth that much time or effort since I would not have used it in the long run. So, did you actually download and look at 100%?
Flat circles means the edges of the circles are not completely rounded. This caused the inside of the frame and the inner frame outline to appear not perfectly rounded as well.
I do see it, but I had to really look. I don't think it would have been a big deal for printing.
Erica Zane's freebie. OP: Doesn't that just drive you crazy? It will not print out okay. It is terrible. If you can't see that and you're a scrapper, then ok. If you're a designer, then you'd better take a close look at your flat-sided circles. I wouldn't fix it -- too time consuming because of the shadows. I will just wave it goodbye.
On the template question from the previous page:
I'm assuming you design some templates and are asking those questions for a reason. Here's an example of a great little template design with poor execution. Many of the spaces between the daily blocks are off by a small margin. Many of the photo masks inside the blocks are off, too.
http://everydayimagination.blogspot.com/
The design is pretty and it's worth my time to fix. To fix this, use a 3px x 3600 pixel straight edge and put it up against any edges you want matched. Use your arrow keys to move the piece you want moved. It will move everything selected by one px. Rotate and do the vertical edges.
For the blocks inside the frames, use a smaller master sizer about an inch long and the width of the distance you want between the frame and block. I think I used 6 pixels on this. Resize the block if it doesn't meet the master sizer. THEN the blank distance between the dates ("jan xx") and the frame is off. This is tricky because as soon as you make that distance the same, you might lose your 'centeredness' - the date might be equidistant to the line, but it might not be centered on the line. I use a script I wrote, so I can't tell you how to easily fix it.
I like this template because it has a 1 px feather on the edges and the corners are not perfect. I consider this artistic and not a flaw. Other people may not like this, but I like my things to blend to the texture of the page and not sit on top of it.
Speaking of spacing, WA is often the opposite of templates because you QC from a 20% perspective. Does it look right? Templates are done at a 150% or higher check. If you design WA then manually kern things to look right.
http://raisingfigureskaters.com/2011/12/14/christmas-in-the-heart-wordart-freebie/
That wordart is awful!
Wouldn't it be easier to use the align tools in PS to fix those? Would take a few minutes.
And I agree, that wordart is really bad - the text is way too far apart, there is nothing interesting in the font or the spacing, and its too far away from the tree.
Just want to say I like how the conversation is going. Informative, useful, practical, and relatively polite. Thanks for all those contributing.
I have some information. I think I might have seen where you can purchase a huge set of rolled flower alphas for $19.95 but I can't remember where, it might have been With Love Studio, no, on second thought maybe it was Hummmmmie's store, well, no I guess I'm not sure where. Some borders and brushes and turds, and buttons, and were going to be thrown in and if you hold your mouth just right you might can have the whole store thrown in as well. Oh, and I don't think they were QC'd so maybe someone here can offer to do that for them. Oh, and are you aware that one of the top stores is closing soon? No, not SM but that other store, uh um, is it SBG? No, I think it might be SO, oh yeah, SO and SDD are finally going to come together and make one big super store. I think they might swallow up TLP and TDC, too, wow, that's going to be one big ass store! I bet they will want lots of smack, um, I mean publicity, tossed around here 'cause it's so um, informative n shit. I'll let you know if I have any more informative, useful, practical, and relatively polite shit to tell you.
Oh, wait, I forgot one tidbit. Did you know that Carly Dee aka Queen of Hearts is finally showing the world her fugly face? Holy shizz, Batman! Next up will be Hummmmmmmie without the bubble!
^^^ I wish you'd stayed in bed this morning.
I wish you'd stayed in bed this morning.
December 16, 2011 7:14 AM
______________________________
Bwahahaha!!! FTW!
I wasn't aware that digital scrapbooking was a beauty contest but from what I see there is plenty of fugliness going around town. Have you seen the ugly at SSD? I meant people not kits.
Now Erica Zane? I dont see any issues with her kits. Unless I don't inspect them good enough and I missed something.
I have some information. I think I might have seen where you can purchase a huge set of rolled flower alphas for $19.95 but I can't remember where, it might have been With Love Studio, no, on second thought maybe it was Hummmmmie's store, well, no I guess I'm not sure where. Some borders and brushes and turds, and buttons, and were going to be thrown in and if you hold your mouth just right you might can have the whole store thrown in as well. Oh, and I don't think they were QC'd so maybe someone here can offer to do that for them. Oh, and are you aware that one of the top stores is closing soon? No, not SM but that other store, uh um, is it SBG? No, I think it might be SO, oh yeah, SO and SDD are finally going to come together and make one big super store. I think they might swallow up TLP and TDC, too, wow, that's going to be one big ass store! I bet they will want lots of smack, um, I mean publicity, tossed around here 'cause it's so um, informative n shit. I'll let you know if I have any more informative, useful, practical, and relatively polite shit to tell you.
I'm guessing this was sarcasm? Unless is it someones manic rant about nothing. Drink some coffee.
Any good blog trains or freebies besides SBG? I get tired of downloading crap. I figured this is the best place to come for what is good or bad. LOL
I do know the SBG train was worthless and a waste of my time.
I honestly don't think that the quality of digi products has gone downhill, I do think that the average scrapper's knowledge of what constitutes quality has increased though. As most of them are getting more and more familiar with their programs, they are more likely to see when something is off.
Just my two cents.
The quality? It is still as shitty as it was before. In some cases it is worse. Designers seem to rush to put out more product that the quality is lacking or they reuse the same doodled elements over and over again. Like Lauren Grier. Some of her shit is blurry. I dont't remember have much quality issues with her before but recently it has been terrible. I don't think it was to do with learning a program, I think it has to do with not rushing to get product out.
Here is an informative question.
Which designers quality do you think has gotten better?
Which do you think has gotten worse?
Does anyone know where Micheline Martin is going? She has guested at TLP for a few months now and is leaving A5D, but I can't see them taking her on. She uses the same paper patterns on all her papers. One pack looks just like the last one but with different colors. I would think that TLP would keep to the handmade and original store they claim they are. Then again they do have Gina Miller there. She likes to overuse Miss Tiina.
What ugliness at SSD? I haven't seen anything.
I think they were talking about ugly as in the way people at SSD look. Not as in drama. Though I think the designers at SSD are stuck up and their designs are terrible.
Like Meg Mullens. Her stuff is terrible. Her designs look cheap and poorly made.
Wow wow wow someone is on an angry rant this morning. I'd bet my left foot that many/most of the posts just above mine were made by the same person. Forget to take your meds this morning, did you? Calm down, lass, you're manic (and mean-spirited, too, I might add).
Let's get back to the more interesting discussion we were having before crazy rambled through... I like the informative turn the blog had just taken, and would prefer not to see it derailed.
For instance, a couple of weeks ago someone mentioned something about being irritated that some designers don't know how to properly apply texture to white papers and elements. Anyone care to describe how they achieve this? I'm curious as to the best way to do this.
Does anyone know where Micheline Martin is going? She has guested at TLP for a few months now and is leaving A5D, but I can't see them taking her on. She uses the same paper patterns on all her papers. One pack looks just like the last one but with different colors. I would think that TLP would keep to the handmade and original store they claim they are. Then again they do have Gina Miller there. She likes to overuse Miss Tiina.
------------------
I cannot imagine that Micheline would leave After 5 if she didn't already have a new home lined up. My guess is that she is, in fact, staying at TLP. If so, it lends even more credence to what I've said in the past, which is that TLP is not the be-all-end-all store that some of you like to profess here on this blog all of the time. I really don't understand all of the hype. It's above-average IMO, yes, but it's not what I would consider to be the best/top shop around.
TLP prides themselves on being " unique and using little to no CU products". They said that in an interview at MSA. If that is the case, why is Gina Miller there? Can the owners not see that Gina has way to much fun using Miss Tiina's stuff. I don't see her being unique or handmade at all. Same with Micheline. It's not really her elements, though she does tend to use the same ones in many of her kits. It's the papers. Same patterns, different colors. I guess TLP isn't as unique as they thought. It is a good store. They do have some unique designers who hand make thier stuff. I just don't see her being a fit there.
And which shop would you consider to be the best?
Textures on white paper. I have not figured out how to do that the right way. It barely shows any texture at all when I apply one. I would love to know how one does the white paper/texture thing the right way.
Honestly, none. I think all stores have their issues. They just don't make it known.
Start with a light grey texture and duplicate it. Change the blend mode of the duplicated layer to screen or soft light. Keep doing this and play with the opacity of the different layers until you are happy with the look you achieve.
Theres no set rule, it just depends on the shade of the texture you start with, and what type of texture it is.
The trick to texture on white paper is never use white. Use something that looks like white, and use it on ALL the white parts and elements in your kit so there is no direct contrast. You can go taupey-white, goldy-white, pinky white greenie-white...you'll see. It will look white if you have that lightness bar way up to almost white. I want very, very light to ALMOST white, so white that when you see it in your materials palette you'd swear it was white not a Royanna white, and that texture will pop right out.
Not a Royanna white LOL
P.S. You shouldn't be using white, anyway. It doesn't print (no white ink) and leaves a dull sheen (visibly blank area) on printed books or layouts. For the colors to use, see if you have any white textures in your stash and you'll see what colors the CU designers use. I just opened a random one and got this color f4f4f2 and another that had this one fbfbf9
I use fdfcfa quite a bit, as it looks white but has a warmth to it that works with most kits/products I create, except the ones that are filled with solely blue or purple shades (or even cool greens), in which case I use a greyer white.
P.P.S. Correction: white has a different sheen on HOME printed books & LO's, not necessarily professionally printed books.
Honestly, none. I think all stores have their issues. They just don't make it known.
-------------
Agreed. I don't think there is any one "best" shop. I think it depends on the customers. For those who want more whimsical and realistic styled kits & elements, or are into art journaling = SBG. For those who want a cutesy paper-scrapped "Hobby Lobby aisle" look to their kits = SSD. For those who want more doodles and hand-painted textures and elements = TLP. For those who want a good mix of paper style kits along with some art-journalish products thrown in like Viva Artistry = TDC. For those who want shabby, vintage, weathered looking products = Shabby Princess or Gina Cabrera. Obviously there are a lot more shops out there, but those listed above would be the first shops I would think of for each of those categories or styles.
Forgot to add: for those who want a cleaner, graphic look = Oscraps.
LOLing. Tracie Stroud posts a sale ad and all 8 overwhelming responses are CT members.
Sadly, most responses are always CT members LOL
Sadly, most responses are always CT members LOL
----------
This is so true. I am on 3 CTs and every time a designer has a sale or posts something, they ask us to bump it up.
I think that designers should ask one or two girls to bump every so often. Not all in one day. It does get annoying when a designer emails and says, Please bump this, and it's been bumped already by 6 other girls. Can it not wait till later?
I never ask my CT to bump my ads. This is also why my ads rarely have responses, LOL. But I have found that it's more interesting to go back and look at a post and see it's "viewed" count later and know that those views are not necessarily my CT, but potential customers. Comparing those numbers against my eventual sales is always interesting, not that I really have time for that. But it would be interesting.
^^^ I wish you'd stayed in bed this morning.
December 16, 2011 7:14 AM
^^^^
Oh, c'mon, seriously no one got a giggle or 2 out of my sarcastic ramble? It was meant as a joke. Jeez
um, it was kinda tooooo manic. not enough giggle and a little too much crazy. you forget that there have actually been a few psychos that have posted here in recent weeks and rambled just like that, but in seriousness. so, hard to tell the difference when we don't know if it's them posting again or not. kwim?
Oh, c'mon, seriously no one got a giggle or 2 out of my sarcastic ramble? It was meant as a joke. Jeez
December 16, 2011 7:38 PM
_____
I didn't think it was funny at all. I agree with 9:47 am. I think your rant made you sound mean spirited. And a little crazy.
^^^^^^^^
word
try a lot crazy
Sometimes on white papers if you put a layer on multiple and put the opacity really low - like 5 or 6 - and then put a layer on top that is soft light at 100%, you'll see the texture ... to see the difference turn off the multiply layer ... it doesn't always work, and sometimes the multiple layer needs tweaking for opacity ... it its to low you don't see it and if its too high its too gray. But its worth a try.
What's going on at SSD where they have to be closed 12/25-31?
Nevermind, just a redesign. *YAWN*
They are redoing the whole site. Hopefully they will get rid of all that pink.
LOL! Were you hoping there was more to it than that?
Is there any truth to this?
"No, I think it might be SO, oh yeah, SO and SDD are finally going to come together and make one big super store. I think they might swallow up TLP and TDC, too, wow, that's going to be one big ass store"
NO
She was making a joke.
Though I sometimes wish there was just one mega store with all the designers in it. All the good ones anyway.
What do you all think about the event that SO is hosting? I've been following their giveaways and only 15 even enter.
Though I sometimes wish there was just one mega store with all the designers in it. All the good ones anyway.
There is a kinda new store that has become a "mega" store pretty fast, and with a lot of designers. There are a small few who really don't fit in (their quality is lower) but most of the designers are pretty good. Their facebook page has almost 12,000 fans - higher than any other shops I've seen.
mymemories.com
^^^^^
Don't you have to use the mymemories software in order to use their kits?
What do you all think about the event that SO is hosting? I've been following their giveaways and only 15 even enter.
December 17, 2011 10:52 AM
Do you mean the Las Vegas one? The classes seem really interesting and it sounds like it was a good time last year. It's just way too expensive for me,especially since I have to add in a flight. If I lived in a closer state where driving was possible I'd definitely consider it.
^^^^^
Don't you have to use the mymemories software in order to use their kits?
December 17, 2011 2:29 PM
Nope :) You have the option to choose between using their software or using 'traditional' software.
Guess Hummie is having a difficult time getting designers. Just posted today:
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?p=3075999
Don't forget to apply.
Does anyone have any questions?
^^^
Wow, desperation anyone?
Though I sometimes wish there was just one mega store with all the designers in it. All the good ones anyway
-------
Ah, but the problem is that your idea of a good designer and mine may be completely different.
Guess Hummie is having a difficult time getting designers. Just posted today:
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?p=3075999
Don't forget to apply.
Does anyone have any questions?
----
Yes, how do I see this thread without registering?
Their facebook page has almost 12,000 fans - higher than any other shops I've seen.
----
So?
Yes, how do I see this thread without registering?
--------
You have to be registered and it's in the DCR.
Re: mymemories.com
I would never shop (or sell) with a store with an ad like this one -
http://www.mymemoriesblog.com/2011/12/its-holiday-time-challenge.html
The jaggies on the split paper, the floating text, the horrible "garland"....such low quality they should be ashamed
You have to be registered and it's in the DCR.
-----
I'm registered just not in the DCR, so what's the point of posting a link to a thread some of us can't see?
There is a kinda new store that has become a "mega" store pretty fast, and with a lot of designers. There are a small few who really don't fit in (their quality is lower) but most of the designers are pretty good.
-----
Actually, I would say a few of them are good and most of them are average and not worth my time.
Mymemories is a software company that sells kits as a side-line to enhance their soft-ware sales. They're trying to replace photoshop as a way to scrap. That's why they have so many fans on FB. It has very little to do with the designers who work there.
I'm registered just not in the DCR, so what's the point of posting a link to a thread some of us can't see?
-------
Because some of us CAN see.
Just downloaded The Daily Digi for December. You would think if you are trying to promote yourself by basically giving away a 'free' kit, it would be good quality. This is their chance to win some customers.
I just looked at Dawn Inskip's doodles and they are horrible. Most have to be cleaned up - the pen marks are just - off. Some double in places. Just horribly done all around.
Because some of us CAN see.
---
I wasn't aware this blog was just for designers. Pardon my ignorance.
If you're not a designer, why do you care about a post about a call for designers then?
Because some of us CAN see.
---
I wasn't aware this blog was just for designers. Pardon my ignorance.
------
Maybe you didn't read all of the post you are responding to.
I wasn't aware this blog was just for designers. Pardon my ignorance.
---------
What part of SOME could you not understand?
^^^
What part of sarcasm didn't you understand?
If you're not a designer, why do you care about a post about a call for designers then?
---
If it's not that interesting, why bother mentioning it?
Maybe you didn't read all of the post you are responding to.
--
Oh? Which particular part did you think I missed?
^^^^ the word SOME?
^^^^ the word SOME?
----------
SOME of the readers on this blog are most certainly not the brightest bulb.
newly posted in the dcr from Hummie:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I'm attempting to hold a designer competition (oh, I need more time in the day!) and am looking for people to offer CU attendance donations to give to each participate who finishes the challenge.
I have the contest information up here: http://www.bit.ly/DestinationDesign
Please contact me if you are willing to donate or post to let me know of people I can contact. I appreciate your help.
__________________
the link to her forum for details...cuz I know you are all dying to join up!
http://www.hummiesworld.com/forum/showthread.php?6509-Destination-Design-Round-1
gee. no one is signed up. and it starts now. oh man. you can win a design spot! i'm so excited i could just...fall over and die laughing.
^^^
yeah, LOL - but i think i can top that. crusing thru DST, checking out freebies - i'm bored. come across this one.
http://neverlandscrapsstore.blogspot.com/
what gets me is in the description. if you see this kit..#1 - what do girl scout cookies have to do with this?
#2 - um....ok so all the word tabs are just plain weird. but...this one? what on earth?
"Shrink the moon . . .I sit on the toilet" Wordtab
good grief.
^^^^^^^^
Have you seen Despicable Me? It's all from the movie. I'm not sure how anyone would use the toilet word tab, but it is a line from the movie.
Not the OP, but I haven't seen it. From the looks of what stuff this "designer" is offering, she is another Disney ripoff person. and no, I haven't seen the movie - but even so - that toilet word tab is just weird....
Not the OP, but I haven't seen it. From the looks of what stuff this "designer" is offering, she is another Disney ripoff person.
From the looks of it, they are making freebies from people's request at a certain Disney digiscrapping board and not making any money, unlike other Disney rip-off artists like Britt-ish Designs
http://www.brittishdesigns.com/shop/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=5&zenid=6vc4l0l0n2a3stjdh5604adl63
Kellybell Designs http://kellybelldesigns.blogspot.com/ and many other designers who make profit off of such requests.
It doesn't matter if she is selling it or giving it away - copyright infringement is copyright infringement.
I would never shop (or sell) with a store with an ad like this one -
http://www.mymemoriesblog.com/2011/12/its-holiday-time-challenge.html
The jaggies on the split paper, the floating text, the horrible "garland"....such low quality they should be ashamed
LMAO!! Well, finally we have a company of business professionals, who have non-digi-scrappers who are doing the ads, running the site, promoting the products, developing software and continually improving it... allowing the designers to simply DESIGN and not worry about the rest of the crap, and wouldn't you know, someone isn't happy about that!
Well, I am VERY happy to not have to waste my time on all of the administrative and business headaches, just concentrate on designing, while a whole professional team of business-people bring the (MANY) customers right to my door.
Although I agree the ad could have been (much) better, I know that, in all likelihood, it was someone from the (gasp!) marketing department who made it, not a digi-scrapper or designer.
Thank goodness you seem to be in very much a minority with your ad-snobbishness. And if you don't want to sell in such a store, good for you, (and good for me, less competition) but you're making a decision based on your (faulty) assumption that beautiful ads means great sales. I know better. :)
@8:09 -
So you don't think the advertising should be representative of the products sold? Yeah that's all well and good that you have a marketing department, but if the advertising is going to look that unprofessional, I'd rather be a snob and do it myself.
The whole point is, apparently those ads are drawing in the customers, and bringing in sales - and very good sales, at that. And THAT is what matters in the end.
^^^^
word
Thank goodness you seem to be in very much a minority with your ad-snobbishness. And if you don't want to sell in such a store, good for you, (and good for me, less competition) but you're making a decision based on your (faulty) assumption that beautiful ads means great sales. I know better. :)
December 18, 2011 8:09 PM
I guess I'm an ad snob too, because that ad is hideous. Isn't the whole point of an ad to draw in customers? You may have a "marketing team" at your store, but if they have zero skills at creating an effective ad graphic, how much is your marketing team really worth? If I let my 5 year old son create an ad for me, can I call him my marketing team?? I think he could probably make something at least as attractive as your store's ad. And having a marketing team makes me better than other designers by your definition right?
Your argument about having a professional store team really means nothing to me. Your idea and my idea of "great sales" might be totally different. You might think that making $500 per month means you are making great sales. Where I might consider $500 per month my worst month ever. I just picked a random amount there since I have no way of knowing how much you are making. And along those lines, since you have no idea how much all of the designers in other stores are making, you really have no way of knowing how much better/worse your sales are than anyone else's.
How can any designer really make great sales even with a marketing team when they're stuck in the middle of a gazillion designers unless you the designer are also marketing your own product and bringing in your own customers?
I know that quality counts but I've been in this business for awhile and I've honestly come to the conclusion that those that market best make the best sales.
Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.
What you don't know is that 99 % of the customers at that store won't go and never went in other digiscrap stores. You don't promote there like you would in any typical stores either. You don't promote your products there like you would do in regular stores.
I know that quality counts but I've been in this business for awhile and I've honestly come to the conclusion that those that market best make the best sales.
I have NOT been in this business a while, and would love some seasoned designers' opinions on best marketing practices.
TIA!
What you don't know is that 99 % of the customers at that store won't go and never went in other digiscrap stores. You don't promote there like you would in any typical stores either. You don't promote your products there like you would do in regular stores.
------
But if they would like more customers (and really -- who wouldn't??), and want to attract "regular" digiscrappers, they should work on quality. That "ad" was beyond horrid and as a digiscrapper who doesn't usually shop there, I wouldn't go there based on that ad.
^^^
We tend to think that the digisworld as we know it is huge. Yes it is huge, but the world of non-digiscrappers is even wider so if a digiscrap ad will attrack current digiscrappers, maybe the not-yet-digiscrappers are more numerous. So maybe they are not after the already-scrapping crowd, but the others.
I work in marketing and can tell you that one of the things marketing people know is how to make things look attractive. So that "marketing dept." is not very good at what they do. Wonder if they'd hire me as a freelance since there's so much money flowing over there. At least I know how to use Photoshop AND the My Memories software. It's bad advertisement of their product as well as the designers who sell there.
To the crazy rant lady - I knew if was a sarcastic joke - many here seem to have no sense of humor or perhaps it gets lost in the translation.
WTF is with GoDigitalScrapbooking? I downloaded one freebie from them and now they keep inundating me with their fugly newsletter. Talk about a way to alienate potential customers!
WTF is with GoDigitalScrapbooking? I downloaded one freebie from them and now they keep inundating me with their fugly newsletter. Talk about a way to alienate potential customers!
-----
Unsubscribe. If they don't have a way for you to unsubscribe from the list, they're breaking the law. If you unsubscribe and they STILL send you mail, they're breaking the law. You can report them.
People who ignore these rules irritate the hell out of me--and for the life of me, I don't see how sending email to people who don't want it helps a business in any way for the exact reason you stated above.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I agree. I see on their latest newsletter that it may take several weeks for a request to be processed. It shouldn't take several weeks. It should be automated and immediate.
SOME of the readers on this blog are most certainly not the brightest bulb.
----
Some of us are not that elitist, while some of you are.
newly posted in the dcr from Hummie:
------
Thank you!
What you don't know is that 99 % of the customers at that store won't go and never went in other digiscrap stores.
-----
You don't have to go into other digi scrap stores to see that that ad is aesthetically unpleasing. All you need is eyes. Unless those customers live in a box, they'll have seen other sorts of ads marketing other kinds of goods. You would honestly need to be blind not to that ad is awful.
To the crazy rant lady - I knew if was a sarcastic joke - many here seem to have no sense of humor.
---------
I have a sense of humor, which is why I didn't find that rant funny.
I would never shop (or sell) with a store with an ad like this one -
http://www.mymemoriesblog.com/2011/12/its-holiday-time-challenge.html
The jaggies on the split paper, the floating text, the horrible "garland"....such low quality they should be ashamed
---------------------------
Has anyone looked through the layouts submitted by customers at the My Memories site? In all honesty, it would appear to me that their customers wouldn't think twice about or be fazed at all by that ad, as many of their pages are similarly basic and (what many of us would consider) awful. It's definitely not a site for advanced scrappers, and they're obviously targeting beginning newbies who don't know any better.
^^^
And like it or not, that IS a huge market!
The ad is hideous, but the site is probably a great starting point for a lot of people. Many of us got our starts at places that we wouldn't dream of buying from today, and many of us didn't start with Photoshop.
Look for the cream of My Memories customers to find your shop in 6 months or a year. These things have a progression and the better scrappers will start branching out and seeing what other things are available. For me, this started with freebies I found online, and from there, links to stores.
^^^^^^ Not so sure about that. Look at who the top designer is - KStudio and look at what she's offering the most of - templates. Which are actually quickpages.
Templates/Quickpages that fit into the mymemories software. Create scrapbook pages in minutes - that's what these people want, not to get better at making a layout.
http://www.mymemories.com/digital_scrapbooking_software
But the whole My Memories conversation started with someone saying she would like to see one mega store with all the best designers. Then someone came along who said My Memories was that store. While it may be a good store for purely recreational scrappers, and it may be a money maker, do you really think it's what the original poster had in mind when she brought up the idea of a mega store? I don't think it is, if it can't produce ads that appeal to serious scrappers.
^^^^^^ Not so sure about that. Look at who the top designer is - KStudio and look at what she's offering the most of - templates. Which are actually quickpages.
^^^
Different definitions for difference stores :/ I find it weird myself and I'm a designer there.
The ad is hideous, but the site is probably a great starting point for a lot of people.
-----
Just because someone is a beginner, doesn't mean they can't see hideous. Like I mentioned before, unless they are living a box, they will have seen ads before and the My Memories ad is hideous. If I was learning to scrap, that ad would not appeal to me. Besides which, the ad was supposedly created by a marketing department, whom I assume to be non beginners.
It's definitely not a site for advanced scrappers, and they're obviously targeting beginning newbies who don't know any better.
---
Why wouldn't they know any better? Does being a beginner automatically make someone stupid? I don't think it does. I remember when I first started scrapping way back in 2004 when there weren't a lot of sites out there. Yet there were some I definitely stayed away from because the pages in the galleries weren't that good. Just because I was a beginner, it didn't mean I didn't know the difference between good and bad. And yeah, yeah, I know the world doesn't revolve around me, but clearly I wasn't the only one who thought like that because some of those early sites flourished, while others didn't. The ones I stayed away from didn't survive.
Well I just hope the marketing department didn't a member designer's kit to make that ad. The quality is obviously lacking.
^^^^^ ....insert "use" .....
I hope the marketing department didn't use .....
Has anyone looked through the layouts submitted by customers at the My Memories site? In all honesty, it would appear to me that their customers wouldn't think twice about or be fazed at all by that ad, as many of their pages are similarly basic and (what many of us would consider) awful. It's definitely not a site for advanced scrappers, and they're obviously targeting beginning newbies who don't know any better.
December 20, 2011 6:51 AM
Anonymous said...
^^^
And like it or not, that IS a huge market!
------------------
This is exactly why Gotta Pixel is also so successful.
When I first started scrapping, I thought DSP was the only company with a website selling things to print at home. I had no idea there was such a thriving and varied community. My guess is people first find somebody like Jessica Sprague, 3Ps, Renee Pearson or My Memories through an article in a regular scrapbook magazine/book or a mention by somebody like Ali Edwards. They might even run across these places with a weird Google search string, and if they are truly new, then they think they've found the only game in town.
People on this blog came to the conclusion a couple years ago that the market is saturated and what is needed is a new customer base. My Memories did just that, and good for them. New customers to digiland will only help us all in the end, and there are very few shops with the manpower to devote to absolute newbies who don't know how to stack a couple layers or post a LO online.
Sounds like a bunch of elitists to me. Since when is trying to scrap memories something that has to be a thing of great talent or beauty. I've been a designer for a long while and though what I would consider successful at designing, I still can't scrap worth two beans. I enjoy making my pages and the only ones who I really think give two hoots are the ones I make my pages for. I mean come on, not everyone scraps beautiful pages. I think a good many just want to get memories made for family later and not take a lot of time or effort doing it. They could care less if they have shadows going the right way or a page that says nothing but looks good. I think many have lost the whole idea behind scrapbooking. For CT and galleries it's become more art then hobby-to me that's really sad.
Even the one who asked about whether they liked the artsy preview vs. what use to be a more normal preview at DST got all these posts saying they wanted the artsy preview. WTF I seriously doubt that is what is selling kits these days. Most normal scrappers don't give to hoots about artsy fartsy. ROFL They want to see what the heck is in the darn kit and whether they can make use of it or not. You can hide a whole lot of mistakes by making artsy previews where everything is on top of everything else!!
^^^^^^
I agree with both of you. I think these might be the "real" scrappers. They scrap for themselves and not to for you and your profit. If you don't like layouts like these you should just quit designing.
Yes I sell at My Memories and to be honest I love when a new scrapper email me or post on my page layouts they have created. They have what some in regular store have: the joy of creating.
For CT and galleries it's become more art then hobby-to me that's really sad.
They have what some in regular store have: the joy of creating.
It doesn't have to be one or the other: artsy or enjoyment. To some, it's all wrapped up in the same package.
So many of these comments smack of scrap-snobbery. I'm a designer and know plenty of scrappers who've been digi scrapping way longer than me - and totally love it - but you'd never see their pages make the GSO blog or Me So Scrappy. They've probably never heard of SO or SSD. But guess what - their memories matter just as much as the mamarazzi that spend a ton of cash on fancy lens and photo treatment actions.
^^^
No one said it didn't, so I'm not sure what your post is about. No one said they didn't matter or were unimportant. People did say they were beginners, that is all.
Those of you who are carrying on about scrap elitism, scrap snobbery and art vs scrapping are bringing up something that up until now, no one was even talking about.
You are tying to make an issue out of something that doesn't exist.
Maybe you the ones with the problem?
^^
I was merely pointing out that some "beginner" looking layouts are from those who have been scrapping for years - and do so because THEY love their work, and don't give a damn whether anyone else does.
Regarding your comment about "those of you" discussing "scrap elitism" and "scrap snobbery" - there's more than one of us here - and guess what - we're the designers doing well - we're not prissy snots, we're not store hopping divas, we're loyal to our stores, but first and foremost to our customers. We help them as they grow - but don't expect them to get a million "likes" in the Digital Scrapbooking layouts gallery on FB or get a million comments in galleries. Sure it's nice if they do, but the people I've built a solid and loyal fan base are the ones who do it for themselves, not for the acclaim and fame and compliments of others.
Regarding your comment about "those of you" discussing "scrap elitism" and "scrap snobbery" - there's more than one of us here
--------
Yes, which is why I said 'those', which implies more than one. Sigh.
I'm not sure how to address the rest of your comment. You seem to be trying to convince someone of something. Are you trying to convince yourself? I'm really not sure.
Scrapbooking layouts gallery on FB or get a million comments in galleries. Sure it's nice if they do, but the people I've built a solid and loyal fan base are the ones who do it for themselves, not for the acclaim and fame and compliments of others.
-----
If they aren't doing it for the compliments of others, why are the posting in galleries?
I wasn't even aware there was a FB layout gallery - what am I missing?
If they aren't doing it for the compliments of others, why are the posting in galleries?
Maybe, CT work?
^^^^
But she was talking about them doing it for themselves, which doesn't include CT work.
I wasn't even aware there was a FB layout gallery - what am I missing?
------
I think she might mean some of the Store FB fan pages and posting on their walls. However, I could be wrong, she was tending towards exaggeration
we're not prissy snots, we're not store hopping divas, we're loyal to our stores, but first and foremost to our customers. We help them as they grow - but don't expect them to get a million "likes" in the Digital Scrapbooking layouts gallery on FB or get a million comments in galleries.
------
Are you sure you aren't a prissy snot? Coz you sure do sound like one right about now.
What ever happened to MSS's designer call?
My Memories looks interesting - I always thought it was only for their software but knowing its not makes it more interesting. Do they do designer calls or how do you get on board with them?
^^^
I'm sure that the person who has been rabidly promoting My Memories will come back here and tell you how to get on board there. It kind of looks to me like they are willing to accept any designer that is about average in talent, so it seems like most designers would have a good chance.
I have friends who sell there, and they have told me that they really don't make that much selling at My Memories. And a couple of them are listed as top designers there.
So I guess that miss non-elitist, never-a-prissy-snot or diva might not be doing quite as well in comparison to the other designers out there as she thought she was.
i knew Hummie read this blog. Changed her photo at DST to a non bubble blowing one. and took the crap about DST not liking her out of her signature. Whatsa matta Hummie? Finally realize how foolish you can be?
So I guess that miss non-elitist, never-a-prissy-snot or diva might not be doing quite as well in comparison to the other designers out there as she thought she was.
------
Don't forget her use of the royal 'we'. She wasn't just speaking for herself, but apparently for every designer there! Although, I'm not so sure that some of them would agree with her, despite her confidence.
i knew Hummie read this blog. Changed her photo at DST to a non bubble blowing one. and took the crap about DST not liking her out of her signature.
------
I noticed that too.
I know what a hummer is and Hummus, but what is a Hummie? Please tell me someone isn't named Hummie.
^^^
Wow, seriously? How can you post on a blog about DST and not know whow Hummie is?
And why shouldn't it be a name? With all the weird names I've seen, Hummie ain't so bad.
Some of us just post our layouts there without really knowing who every member is. Since she is often talked about here, I was wondering just who she is. Is she important?
Some of us just post our layouts there without really knowing who every member is. Since she is often talked about here, I was wondering just who she is. Is she important?
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I think she thinks she's important. But, in reality, she's just a person who is trying to open a store (after putting a lot of money into it) and is apparently not having any luck getting many designers - if any.
She is whiny and just over all annoying. I wouldn't design for her store if she offered 110% commission.
Happy Tits is posting at SO now. Apparently Anna BV's CT?
OMG I almost had a heart attack of joy when I saw at DST a thread called "Time to step away" and Outside of the box (formerly know as COLS) but I was deceived to see she only replied.
She also upgraded her name :Outside of the box designs STUDIO
^^^^^^
If you don't like her designs, the just don't buy them. You don't have to continually trash her.
'then' not 'the'
^^^^^^
'scuse us. but yes we do need to trash her. all she does is create pixelated crap with strays, jaggies and blurriness. when nothing sold when she was doing "kits" all the time..she started calling it art journaling and ripping off Tangie Baxters way of doing things. She is a know it all bitch who harps about her hardships because she is Jewish. Uh huh. no one else i know of uses that line to try to evoke sympathy from people in the digiscrap world. YOU buy her crap. YOU keep on "not trashing" her. People like her are what make this industry look bad.
and since I know she reads this blog....MERRY CHRISTMAS, AMANDA.
^^^
Wow! Angry at her a little bit? Seems like she did something to you personally. Care to share?? It's hard to believe you hate her so badly just because her designs are unappealing to you.
not the OP on the Amanda rant, but I can understand where she is coming from. If you have never had the extreme pleasure of dealing with her, then you would have no idea. She IS a know it all, she does believe that because "It's ART!" she can get away with any mess she comes up with, and it is all a mess. Her attitude is horrible - and I too, would just plain giggle the night away if she would only just go away!
Some of us just post our layouts there without really knowing who every member is. Since she is often talked about here, I was wondering just who she is. Is she important?
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Fair enough. She's not important but she is a character of DST, if you will.
not the OP on the Amanda rant, but I can understand where she is coming from. If you have never had the extreme pleasure of dealing with her, then you would have no idea. She IS a know it all, she does believe that because "It's ART!" she can get away with any mess she comes up with, and it is all a mess. Her attitude is horrible - and I too, would just plain giggle the night away if she would only just go away!
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I agree, as someone who did work with Ms. Amanda before she was "designing" (gag), her attitude needs some serious adjustment. I'm not going to go into great detail, but much of it was sparked by her "religious expressions". Everyone has a right to their opinion, but she felt the need to shove hers down everyone's throats. Not sure if that has changed, as I have stayed far away.
Just because she calls it "art", doesn't mean the quality should be poor.
Sounds like a bunch of elitists to me. Since when is trying to scrap memories something that has to be a thing of great talent or beauty. I've been a designer for a long while and though what I would consider successful at designing, I still can't scrap worth two beans. I enjoy making my pages and the only ones who I really think give two hoots are the ones I make my pages for. I mean come on, not everyone scraps beautiful pages. I think a good many just want to get memories made for family later and not take a lot of time or effort doing it. They could care less if they have shadows going the right way or a page that says nothing but looks good. I think many have lost the whole idea behind scrapbooking. For CT and galleries it's become more art then hobby-to me that's really sad.
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You're sounding pretty elitist to me. You are basically saying that most of those scrappers who are making beautiful pages aren't doing it for the memories, but just for the art.
How do you know that those pages that aren't saying anything, don't have journaling on the back or even journaling that they didn't care to share with everyone? You don't.
Maybe taking the time and effort to make a beautiful page is part of the process and important to them and they don't want to just make a page to get it done.
A thing of beauty is a joy forever, a thing of mediocrity is quickly forgotten.
I think a good many just want to get memories made for family later and not take a lot of time or effort doing it.
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So why not just buy a photo album and journal next to the photo if that's all you want to do. There's minimum time and effort involved in that and sounds like something a lot of those scrappers should consider. It would be much cheaper too.
I'm curious... since we're all anonymous, will anyone share how much they make designing?
Is this a scrapbooking product or am I missing something?
http://www.gottapixel.net/store/product.php?productid=36557&cat=25&page=3
Interesting to see that whoever is teaching that "special" is not even listed in the "designers". But I agree that it is an odd product to have in a digiscrap store!
I'm curious... since we're all anonymous, will anyone share how much they make designing?
December 22, 2011 9:15 PM
^^^^^^^^^
I have never believed the $$ amounts people post here on earnings. Amazes me that people feel the need to exagerate when no one knows who they are! According to what is usually posted (which by the way is about every couple weeks here- its brought up OVER and OVER again - most people make over $1000 per month. Which, in my estimation is bullshit. Pure bullshit.
^^^^
Every couple of weeks huh? I haven't seen an amount in a long while. More exaggeration perhaps?
The last time I saw amounts was in November for NDSD and that was, wait, over a MONTH ago. Wow. Time flies when you are having fun.
I often wonder whether they are posting gross or net totals which is a big difference. I usually speak in Net because that's what truly matters - how much goes in my pocket, though gross total is much more impressive LOL
I sell only PU. Two stores - Net (after commission and pay pal fees in one of them) an average of about $175 per month with a range of $100 - $300. However, last month (November with DSD etc) my net was $600.
While I know I'm not in the upper end of what designers do make - I know several who absolutely do make $1000 in a month - I also think that there are many who make less than that, probably more who make less than make more.
So yes, there may be exaggeration going on, or else several of the top end post here, or one person posts repeatedly.
I am a newish designer, exclusive to a small to medium store. November I made $282 (after commission), so far this month, I'm at $312.
I design because I love to do it. I am building a nice customer base and sales are going up. I'm happy.
Ok, I get that Krystal Hartley is gorgeous, I am not disputing that. BUT, why does she post a new photo of her self almost every damn day on FB?
Of course she gets a lot of 'likes' and comments about how pretty she is so maybe that's why.
And yes, I'm probably a little jealous but I don't think I would do that even if I looked as good as her.
I'm not facebook friends with her and just a basic search came up with someone - not stunning. Maybe if it really does bother you that much, hide or unfriend her?
(Not snarky - just a thought).
I sell only PU. Two stores - Net (after commission and pay pal fees in one of them) an average of about $175 per month with a range of $100 - $300. However, last month (November with DSD etc) my net was $600.
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That seems like a good amount. I'd be happy to make that much honestly. For me it's more like $20, but I don't advertise that much. Do you?
Is this a scrapbooking product or am I missing something?
http://www.gottapixel.net/store/product.php?productid=36557&cat=25&page=3
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You could learn the same information by watching a couple of episodes of "Extreme Couponing" on TLC.
I love that she used a kit that's not from GP to create her "preview." If I was the owner of GP, I would have insisted that the coupon workshop leader use a kit from a GP designer for her preview.
That seems like a good amount. I'd be happy to make that much honestly. For me it's more like $20, but I don't advertise that much. Do you?
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I do advertise - all the available forums and galleries and facebook / twitter. I put product out 3-4 times a month and sometimes a couple items per release day. i have special deals each week (X% off X dollar or a free with purchase). I send my newsletter out weekly and always attach a coupon. All the advertising takes maybe an hour extra a week, but IMO, it's worth it.
That seems like a good amount. I'd be happy to make that much honestly. For me it's more like $20, but I don't advertise that much. Do you?
____________________
I try to be very visible in the store forums (host challenges, chit chat etc) and participate in store promotions. I have subscriptions at DST and DSA, have a growing email list, use my FB and blog, attempting to use twitter better. However, I do have an advertising manager who I brought on at the beginning of October and there has been a good increase in sales both from her efforts which put my name out there more and because I have more time to design and release more products.
For clarification - 9:37 I am the OP that is quoted.
It's been a while since I have seen a picture of krystal, but I remember her being pretty enough but a little chubby, definitely not gorgeous
Oh please. There is nothing wrong with someone posting pictures of herself on Facebook. That's what it's for. To share your photos and life with your friends. You obviously aren't her friend, so why don't you just unfriend her instead of coming here and posting catty bitchy things about her? Just because she happens to be pretty and posts photos does that make her conceited? What if she were ugly, would it be ok with you then? You admitted yourself that you are jealous of her. Good job trying to bring her down to make yourself feel better.
I've been designing for 5 years now and I'm not "elite" but I do have a steady following of customers. I make anywhere from $150 per month to as high as $1000. This last year has been slower for me though with most months at about $150-$400.
I plan on some redesign in the new year, a new blog, updated Facebook fan page and all around new logo's, blinkies, banners and such. I will not be changing my name or my design style because it works well for me, so why change it! lol.
I'm ok with what I make for the amount of time I put into it. If I put more time into advertising and promotions, I would expect to see that amount go up.
Is it just me or is the shadowing on Bella Gypsy's product previews just strange?
I started scrapping about 6 years ago using ScrapbookMax software and free kits. I was looking through some of my old layouts just a few days ago and can't believe how primitive they are! BUT, I love them just as much as my fancy schmancy layouts that I create now. It is the memories that are special and I love to look at the old layouts to see just how far my scrapping ability has become!
I'm established, I earned (after commission and PP fees) an average of $2400.00 per month this year. Of course I must still pay taxes, with SS and Medicare being doubled. So it would be less when you deduct that. You can believe it or not, but I am quite happy and grateful to my customers, store, and fellow designers. Life's good.
^^^^^Do you sell CU or PU?
Almost exclusively PU.
i would like to know which store you are in...not who..but which store, that has that kind of traffic. because honestly, sometimes its not who you are as much as where you sell.
I'd like to know the store, too.
STORE! STORE! STORE!
That's my rallying cry.
i would like to know which store you are in...not who..but which store, that has that kind of traffic. because honestly, sometimes its not who you are as much as where you sell.
December 23, 2011 3:44 PM
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If you are doing an average of $2,400 per month, it's who you are, NOT where you sell. Or maybe it would be better to say, it's a combination of having enough design talent to create eye catching and quality designs on a regular basis and lots of energy and time devoted to consistent personal marketing and promotion.
Blog Train for January - "The Brown Owl" has a poser chick who is wearing very little. HOW is this 'refreshing'?
Repulsive.
Then how do you explain my sales tripling when I changed stores? I didn't change who I am or what I do for advertising... just a new store.
If you are doing an average of $2,400 per month, it's who you are, NOT where you sell. Or maybe it would be better to say, it's a combination of having enough design talent to create eye catching and quality designs on a regular basis and lots of energy and time devoted to consistent personal marketing and promotion.
^^^^^^^
i disagree to an extent. Traffic is extremely important to sales. You can have fantastic kits in a very low traffic shop - and sales will be miserable no matter how much promotion you have. I too changed stores, and my sales volume increased 10 fold. Ten. I haven't changed one bit, nor am I advertisizing more. Who you are has something to do with it of course....but its defintiely a combo of who and where.
http://gs354.photobucket.com/groups/r410/S2FRSKDS1W/
pw:jan2012btb
i know someone says this about every blogtrain...but to me, this is seriously the ugliest stuff I have seen in a long time. so far there isn't anything i would even consider downloading (and yes the poser one is awful). Maitri (who should just GIVE UP ALREADY) is offering a styles set, which isn't even allowed. Its all crap.
Blog Train for January - "The Brown Owl" has a poser chick who is wearing very little. HOW is this 'refreshing'?
Repulsive.
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She's wearing a bikini and not a very revealing one at that. Where the heck do you live that find that repulsive? It's not my cup of tea, but i wouldn't describe it as wearing very little either. I was expecting near nudity, not a perfectly respectable bikini.
Bow is it refreshing? Going for a swim is refreshing, going to a spa and treating yourself is refreshing.
so far there isn't anything i would even consider downloading
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I didn't mind some of them, but most of them have no clue how to use a palette.
i disagree to an extent. Traffic is extremely important to sales. You can have fantastic kits in a very low traffic shop - and sales will be miserable no matter how much promotion you have. I too changed stores, and my sales volume increased 10 fold. Ten. I haven't changed one bit, nor am I advertisizing more. Who you are has something to do with it of course....but its defintiely a combo of who and where.
December 23, 2011 6:32 PM
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Are you bringing in an average of $2,400 per month though? I specified that before, because my point was that if you are bringing in that much, it's not because of the store you sell in. It's because of you. No store is going to bring an Plain-Jain ho-hum designer $2,400 per month. It doesn't matter what store you sell in.
I've sold in stores listed here as "top" and some listed as "middle" tier. And I've averaged the same amount in all of them. The only way to make an average of over $2000 per month in digi design, is to work your butt off. Your store isn't going to do it for you.
So, what are the "top" stores? And "middle"?
^^^^
Not this again!!!
Everyone's version of a top and middle store differs.
Take 9th & Bloom for instance, considered a top store by many, not me, and where are they now? No where.
you know, there should be a side bar here on this blog for newcomers or those that don't read often...with topics to catchup on like "best stores" "best designers" "how much do you make", etc...so that this isn't rehashed every darn month.
Honestly - how difficult is it to read thru older posts? there is some good info in there along with the snarky stuff.
LOL! I just love this blog! Merry Christmas, everybody!
i would like to know which store you are in...not who..but which store, that has that kind of traffic. because honestly, sometimes its not who you are as much as where you sell.
____________________________
I think it does matter who. I can think of a few PU designers that would bring in that amount.
Kristin Aagard
Magical Reality (although she sells CU also)
I've read every single comment on this post, which started Nov. 9th. Obviously not talked about every month.
Designers I think could possibly be pulling in above $2000 per month:
Creashens
Kristin Cronin Barrow
Jenn Barrette
Traci Reed
Flergs
Sahlin Studio
Irene Alexeeva
Jady Day
Fayette
Captivated Visions
Secret Stash
Connie Prince (based on how many people talk about her here)
I'm sure that there are more. I'm a paper type scrapper (and designer)and I don't know the fantasy designers well. I'm sure that there are a few of those who could be making that amount. I wish I was.
If you're not pulling in what you think you should be, then maybe it's time for people to take a second look at you. Do you have blog, newsletter &/or facebook freebies? Are they PERFECT? (Do you have any CT members who will tell you like it is?) Do your freebies reflect your style? If I go to your shop after downloading and seeing them up close, will I see your best work on the front page? I never heard of Captivated Visions before the huge freebie she gave out last summer, but now I am definitely a fan. I think she's good business woman, too, and here's a tip I learned from her: Don't give away a big blog or facebook freebie - use it to get people to sign up for your newsletter instead.
Even the one who asked about whether they liked the artsy preview vs. what use to be a more normal preview at DST got all these posts saying they wanted the artsy preview.
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I've only just seen the thread you are talking about and I'm not surprised that almost everyone voted for the creative preview. The one you call 'normal' is a big mess and all blurs together.
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=293754
I have to agree, the normal preview, the bottom, is horrible looking! She could have reduced the size of the elements and pulled them down to the bottom or something else. It looks like someone threw-up on that last preview! Of course everyone would pick the creative one when you compare the two previews!
^^^^
Yep, a definite element vomit.
If I'm buying a kit I want to know what is in the damn thing and looking at either of those previews whether artsy or methodical make me think maybe something is wrong as you can't clearly see so many of the elements. I don't need artsy to show me the kit. I want practical as I'm the one who is going to be doing the scrapping not the kit designer and I don't scrap artsy!! LOL and I'd probably never buy a kit like that as it's too fantasyish for me. Just my personal view of things.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Does anyone else look at that preview (and the preview of SO MANY Christmas kits) and wonder why designers think it's OK to uze someone else's work and call it 'designing'? Every single one of those elements that is photographed and extracted was actually designed by someone, and has copyright attached to it. I don't care if you match colors or recolor well to pull photographs into a kit, you didn't 'design' those ornaments, you shouldn't be putting them in your kits.
It happens year-round, but it seems to be SO MUCH WORSE at Christmas when everyone thinks it is OK to photograph whatever is on their tree or at the dollar store and throw it in their digital kit.
I wish that bullshit would stop. It really reflects badly on the whole industry.
^^^^^
examples?
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