Web Browsers - a review, and keeping 3 shops straight on the same computer

When I opened my second shop, GreathouseHardware, I found it quite impossible to keep track of which account I was logged into when I was posting in the forums, sending convos, and the like. I learned from another Etsy seller that the best way to keep track of 2 stores was to use 2 web browsers.

Now, I don't know about you, but I didn't even realize that I had a choice about web browsers. I just clicked on the little "e" (internet explorer) that came with my computer and there was the web. Now I learn that there are different programs that allow you to view websites, and that those programs can actually make the page look different? Whoa.

After a bit of research, I learned that Etsy is apparently best viewed (and developed for use in) a web browser called Firefox. So, I went to the website and downloaded the free program. Can I just say that I love it?!!! For one thing, it bugs me on Etsy that the links aren't "live" meaning when someone puts their website or blog in their profile, I can't just click on it and go there. I have to copy and paste it into my address bar (that little box at the top of the screen where the web address is located). Firefox automatically turns it into a link for you. They call it linkification. Firefox is smart like that (they have hundreds of other add-ons, too - still free). The other thing that I really love is that Firefox automatically spell checks everything that you type - anywhere. So, when I'm typing in the forums, or a message to someone, or even filling out a form, I get a red squiggly line under the word if Firefox thinks it is misspelled. Just think of all the typos I've avoided....

So, I have Firefox as my default browser now, which means it is automatically used when I go to the internet. When I turn on my computer, I open Firefox with tabs for my shop on Etsy and all the related accounts (Flickr, Gmail, Hotmail, blog). Then I open the other web browser, Internet Explorer, for my mom's shop and all the related accounts. This is wonderful because all I have to remember is Firefox=Those Greathouse Women, IE=Greathouse Hardware. Then I never have to log in and out or remember who I am when I'm emailing someone.

Whew! Just when I had all that figured out, I decided to open my newest shop, High Pie Supply. Now, I figure I need a third web browser. I do a quick search on Google for web browsers, and I can't believe how many there are! I finally decide on one called Safari, which I guess is developed for Mac computers (which I love but due to certain circumstances right now I have to use a Dell). You wouldn't believe how much different it makes the web look. I'm still getting used to it and I can't decide if I like it or not. I just really had no idea that web pages could look so different simply depending on which browser you were using!

Here are a couple of screen shots of the same page on Etsy:

As viewed on Firefox:



As viewed on Internet Explorer:


As viewed on Safari:


If you can't tell much of a difference, try clicking on the photos and comparing. You definitely see more of the web page itself by using Safari, but I don't care for the style of the drop down menus and the fonts.

I suppose it has a lot to do with what you are used to, but I found switching to Firefox very user friendly, and I absolutely love it (after spending umpteen years using IE and Netscape). I especially love linkification and spell check!

How many times could I have used these? Let me count the ways....

I have just stumbled on the greatest invention, ever. Well, maybe not EVER, but pretty cool nonetheless. Pants in a pinch. Proceeds from my next sale will definitely go toward the purchase of these, and a pair for every friend I have that has kids. Do they come in adult sizes? Hm.

Organization - Get Creative with BreeLeeD

Welcome to my first endeavor into the world of doing features! I'm very interested in how people organize their things, what kinds of creative solutions they come up with, and what kind of creative environment they create for themselves. In this series, I am exploring creative and/or thrifty organization solutions.

Today's interview is with Bree, of BreeLeeD, who is a fellow Etsy artist who makes quality fabric headbands, adorable zippered pouches, and a variety of other tidbits.

1. Tell us about your creative or thrifty organization solution.



I enjoy making upcycled pencil holders out of old cans. They're very simple and fun to make! Just clean a can very well and dry it with a cloth. Set it aside for several days; this ensures that the food scents are completely gone. Next, get some pretty scrapbooking papers, ribbon, Mod Podge, E6000 glue, a paintbrush and a toothpick. Using a light coat of Mod Podge on the can, attach the paper. You'll need to hold the paper in place for a few minutes. Once the Mod Podge is dry, use a toothpick and E6000 glue to attach a ribbon around the can. If you'd like a bow, just glue one on the top of the ribbon. That's it! It's a very thrifty and beautiful way to make your workspace more organized.

2. What motivated you to use this solution? Function, price, artistic appeal, going green?
I first started making pencil holders out of cans when I was in kindergarten. However, I used to cover them with rocks, lol. My new upcycled pencil holders take that same idea, but the level of creativity has been taken up a notch. Today, craft stores have such a variety of lovely papers and ribbons, that the idea of replacing rocks with paper just popped into my head. Upcycled pencil holders are very functional, super inexpensive to make and help the environment at the same time!

3. How does this solution compliment your creative space? I have several upcycle pencil holders - one on my sewing table and one on my desk. I even switch them out every now and then. The one I have on my sewing table helps keep things really tidy, as it holds my pens, pencils, seam gauge, seam ripper, and any other little things I can fit in it. The one I have right now, matches my teacup pin cushion.


If you'd like to learn more about this artist, please visit her Etsy shop, blog, or Flickr account.

Do you have a creative or thrifty organization solution? I'd love to hear about it! Perhaps you found a great old cabinet at a flea market, made a table from an old door, or use old hardware promotional baskets for sorting your wares. Please leave a comment, and I'll send you my short interview.

Not Too Shabby...

Well, so far in 2008 I'm averaging about a sale a day. I think that is pretty great considering the number of items on Etsy! Unfortunately, I haven't had a chance in days to do anything crafty, so the shop is looking a little depleted..... I've been cleaning house and trying to reduce clutter (isn't that what EVERYONE does at the start of the year?). I figure it gives me the rest of the year to creatively re-clutter my house.
Anyway, so I have these great open clean spaces now (read kitchen table) that are just calling to me to get out some art supplies and get to work. But on the other hand, I kind of like seeing no clutter, and I'm reluctant to get everything out again! Now, I know you are wondering "maybe she should get a studio or workspace just for her" - yes, that would be a great idea. Uh, yeah, I already have that, but it is full right now, and besides it just isn't as inviting as the cleared kitchen table. My workroom is a MESS. I think a clutter free art room is an oxymoron, don't you think?

Back to work - even if it IS just doing laundry and keeping the kids alive.