Blogging in.

It's odd that I haven't taken the time to post on my personal blog about the issue that has most consumed me for the last several weeks. In honor of the nation-wide CPSIA blog in, I'm going to remedy that byt addressing the effects on me, personally.

My first response was disbelief, quickly followed by a frantic search for some iota of information to debunk this crazy new e-myth. I'm still searching, and still empty handed. Turns out it is entirely true; the CPSIA may very well mean the end of my business.

For the time being, my shop will remain open and undergo a positive set of changes. I am researching like mad, and grabbing at the information resources that are finally surfacing after years of obscurity. I'm looking into testing options, contacting the manufacturers of my materials, exchanging insights with others, and doing my best to formulate a new product safety plan that will give both me and my customers peace of mind.

The process and desire have been a very healthy experience. I want my toys to be as safe as I can manage. The requirements of February aren't too far off the mark, and could be very legally livable in the long term, if certain allowances are made (such as the use of material certifications from manufacturers).

We have some details to work out, but I can work things out with the basic set-up of the GCCs.

But in August, legal operation will become impossible.

I wish I could stay open.

I wish to have options for my children.

I wish for the continuted encouragement of culteral expression through handmade toys.

I wish regulators and businesses were working together, rather than against each other.

I wish for a thoughtful, diverse, and kind nation for my children to grow up in.

Best wishes,

Hilary

Flannel Board Options Guide

First, felt piece sets:

The boards include one felt set each.

The three basic options are:

Creative Mischief abstract felt pieces (50+ abstract pieces, plus 4 faces)









Scribble felt letter pieces- Letters are made from "stroke" line pieces, and require assembly. One full alphabet set is included.








Juicy Jungle pieces. These include 20+ pieces made using Alexander Henry's Juicy Jungle fabric, includes at least three large animals.










Custom variations of these sets may be available upon special request.

And now for the custom options for Board and it's Case:

I'm happy to select a fabric based on your general preferences, or you may select your fabric personally.

The possibilities are pretty open. If you'd like to browse options, these are same of my favorite Etsy fabric sellers:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5579277
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=10295
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5914319
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5166892
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5480635

Feel free to link me to any listing that catches your fancy.

You also have the option of a custom embellishment on the exterior of the case- a simple felt appliqué picture, a specific animal image, or initials, perhaps? If you are feeling indecisive, I can play with the fabric and see what feels right.

If you do not specify an applique preference at the time of order, I will make one based on the style of the fabric.


New backdrop option:

I am now offering appliqued landscape backdrops as an option. Contact me for more details.



I've decided to use 8 1/2"x 11" frames by default, rather than 8x10. The little bit of extra play surface really makes a difference. Larger frames may be available upon special request.


Thank you!

Hilary

What a day!

Wow.


I am three weeks out and totally booked on my custom order allowance, but have a short wait-list for anyone who is interested in being contacted as soon as I am able to take more orders. I won't make promises at this point, but chances are still great for getting a wait-list item before Christmas.

Thank you so much to everyone who curious enough to come take a look, and especially to those who have shown an overwhelming interest in my flannel boards and other toys.

I think we all need a little more candy in our lives- what a wonderful gift!

Wow do I ever need sleep, now..

One spot left..

Wow.. my shop is feeling pretty depleted!

I have one spot left for a custom flannel board with a 3 week turnaround.

I'm not comfortable taking orders beyond that point. I plan to recruit the help of a friend to get through the holiday rush, and will, as ever, continue to develop and post new toys.

Be sure to check back here and in my shop for new items.

Those who wish may contact me through Etsy Convo to get on a waiting list for custom flannel boards. The first five people on the list will still be able to take advantage of my sale this week ($10 off purchases of $65 or more).

And for now? I'm going to get to work! I want to try to shorten the promised turnaround for all my wonderful new customers.

Thank you!

Thank You Daily Candy!

For the sweet mention!

I'm excited for all the new interest in my flannel boards and felt pieces. As of this morning, I have reached my cap for a 2-week fill. Any orders taken at this point will be 3 weeks out.

I am still happy to take custom orders, and will keep posting new felt sets as they are made.

Until further notice, my blog posting will be restricted to store announcements and new listing alerts. Feel free to subscribe if you would like to stay updated on my product availability.

Love to all!

special request

I had a fellow etsian approach me about helping her with felt lettering and pieces for an interactive calendar for her kids. what a great idea! We're still working out the details, but it's a project I'm very excited about playing with. When doing one, I may as well do more.. I think I might have one hanging on my wall before long, and maybe another posted in my shop.

First things first, we're working on some samples to make sure we're on the same page. I guess I better go get to work!

the balancing act

We played with blocks tonight. It's one of those activities that always refreshes my happy fuzzy childhood memories. It had been a while since our last serious building session, and I was amazed at the things that came from those little hands.

Our session certainly had the effect of doubling my excitement for Christmas (yes, that again...). The one gift we actually have planned and purchased is a good basic set of standard unit blocks purchased from some serious block aficionados Now all we need are Legos, and we'll be set to relive the best of my childhood. yay!

Speaking of kids and Christmas, my girls figured out how to tune into the local Christmas-obsessed radio station, today. I love it, but I hope Duddy doesn't go nuts. I suppose it is a little early..