Just a reminder that the deadline is tomorrow! So get those applications in, we can't wait to read them!
Time to invite YOU to be a part of Craft Critique! We are looking for a few new reporters. If you are interested please read on... This call will be OPEN to international Crafters too!
What we are looking for: Bloggers who have been blogging for at least 6 months. Crafters of all types; paper, stamps, fabric, yarn, beads, crayons, clay... whatever you are into. Bonus points for crafters with multiple skills. You don't need to be on any design teams or be some sort of crafting superstar... but what you WILL need are good English writing skills, the ability to take a decent photo, and an opinion. If you applied before and were not sellected... PLEASE re-apply!
What is in it for you? We have a dream here at Craft Critique... and that is to get you some free goods on occasion to review. But since we can not make any promises, and you won't get paid... you might be asking yourself WHY you would want to participate. Well, you WILL see increased traffic to your blog, you will meet some new people, and you will be the envy of all your friends. Besides, it's fun for goodness sakes! And don't tell anyone... but we have some BIG plans for Craft Critique coming soon!
To Submit: Email me at sarah@craftcritique.com before September 20th (by midnight CST). Include your name, location, blog link, links to any online galleries, A little bit about YOU, and and a short article about your favorite craft product. Include photos (attach them please) of projects created with the product you review. Use the posts here on Craft Critique to help guide your article. This should be an article NOT formerly published on your blog. By submitting this article you grant us permission to use the article and accompanying photos on Craft Critique.
Feel free to post any questions here or email me. The new team will be announced on September 30th. Good luck! I can't wait to see your application!
Showing posts with label CC News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CC News. Show all posts
September 19, 2008
August 27, 2008
Become a SIS TV Affiliate and Help Support Craft Critique
Many of you have wondered how you can support Craft Critique... and now we have an easy and free way! Become an affiliate for, or just SHOP at, Scrap in Style TV! Just click below, or on the sidebar banner to get started!
Becoming a SIS TV affiliate is easy, free and is a great way for YOU to earn a little money too. But even better than that; if WE refer you to this program we get a tiny kick-back too! So you can help us out by just signing up though our link. SIS TV will give you all the details on how much you will earn and so forth...
You may start to see more of these sorts of affiliate programs mentioned here... and we hope you will at least visit our advertisers and affiliates to help support our little ole' site.
Note: We will NEVER take advertising from companies whose products we review. We do plan to start some affiliate programs with companies like SIS TV that you may already be shopping with... and start taking ads from independent crafters, instructors and kit clubs. Stay tuned for details.
Becoming a SIS TV affiliate is easy, free and is a great way for YOU to earn a little money too. But even better than that; if WE refer you to this program we get a tiny kick-back too! So you can help us out by just signing up though our link. SIS TV will give you all the details on how much you will earn and so forth...
You may start to see more of these sorts of affiliate programs mentioned here... and we hope you will at least visit our advertisers and affiliates to help support our little ole' site.
Note: We will NEVER take advertising from companies whose products we review. We do plan to start some affiliate programs with companies like SIS TV that you may already be shopping with... and start taking ads from independent crafters, instructors and kit clubs. Stay tuned for details.
July 2, 2008
Craft Critique is going to CHA...
...And we can't wait!!
That's right, we will be bringing you reports on all the latest and greatest from the Craft and Hobby Association Trade Show in Chicago.
Starting on the 14th we will begin our CHA carnival. We're searching the web for sneak peeks of new products from your favorite companies. If you spot anything during your searches feel free to email them to us to be included in the carnival. If you want to see it, someone else does too!
On the 17th we will be live from Chicago with photos, videos and all the 411 on the industry. If there is something you are dying to see, leave us a comment on this post so we can be sure to put it on the list of vendors we must check out.
And if you represent a vendor who will have a booth at the show, send us an email if you would like to set up an appointment to show us what you have new this year. You will be featured on Craft Critique and have the opportunity to speak directly to the consumers and build the buzz about your new products. Or if you know someone who works at a company, feel free to forward our information on to them.
We aim to provide our readers with the latest news and happenings in this industry we all adore, so be sure to make your voice heard through email or comments and tell all your friends. We aim to be your go to source for CHA coverage! And make sure you stop by every day, there might just be chances to win *wink wink*!
That's right, we will be bringing you reports on all the latest and greatest from the Craft and Hobby Association Trade Show in Chicago.
Starting on the 14th we will begin our CHA carnival. We're searching the web for sneak peeks of new products from your favorite companies. If you spot anything during your searches feel free to email them to us to be included in the carnival. If you want to see it, someone else does too!
On the 17th we will be live from Chicago with photos, videos and all the 411 on the industry. If there is something you are dying to see, leave us a comment on this post so we can be sure to put it on the list of vendors we must check out.
And if you represent a vendor who will have a booth at the show, send us an email if you would like to set up an appointment to show us what you have new this year. You will be featured on Craft Critique and have the opportunity to speak directly to the consumers and build the buzz about your new products. Or if you know someone who works at a company, feel free to forward our information on to them.
We aim to provide our readers with the latest news and happenings in this industry we all adore, so be sure to make your voice heard through email or comments and tell all your friends. We aim to be your go to source for CHA coverage! And make sure you stop by every day, there might just be chances to win *wink wink*!
May 2, 2008
The rest of the new reporter bios
Sorry, this was supposed to run this morning with Simone's first article, but I forgot, so please welcome our new reporter.
Simone Collins : Featured Reporter
My name is Simone Collins and I live in Chicago with my 12 year old son, "The Max". I've been scrapbooking since before I knew what scrapbooking was. My first book is from when I was in 5th grade and it celebrated my then love for the King of Pop (embarassing, I know!). I've always loved creating little projects as a child and love it even more now that I have more than my $5 a month in allowance. I also teach classes at a new LSS. And if that is not enough, I work full time as an office slave. My gal pal and I recently started a new challenge blog recently called Scrap Your Crap to inspire ourselves as well as our crafty pals to use up what we have been collecting for years. I also keep a blog on my own and have started to fill it with video tutorials, scraproom tours and store features, totally fun.I love candy, the color green, watching tons of movies, 80s music, black clothing, trashy reality tv and sleeping 8 hours a night. I talk to much and rest too little....but I love it that way. I'll try anything twice!I can't wait to get started with Craft Critique!
And also welcome Kim, who also hasn't been formally introduced.
Kimberly Brimhall : Featured Reporter
I am a 26 year old new soul, mother of two creative souls, and wife to one old soul. I am really from no where and everywhere because I have lived all across the country and now call Texas home. My background is in journalism and home design, but recently I have joined the scrapbooking world and found my niche. For the last five years, I have been writing, painting, doing photography and have been involved in many different aspects of design from home décor products to digital imaging. My favorite things are my children’s art hanging on my fridge, snowcones, creative blogs, and sweet, inspiring people. I am most happy when I am dancing and when I have a new canvas, new paper, and new photos. I am excited to be a part of such a lovely team!March 20, 2008
Last, but definitely not least
And here's some more of our new reporters. We still have two more bios to run, but they are out of town without internet access, so they will run with their first articles.
Shannon Shafer : Jewelry Specialist
I love beads! I am addicted to crafting. Jewelry, felt, clay, oh my! I live in Sunny Florida in the hip town of St. Petersburg. The Burg is where it's at. The art scene is boomin' and I am glad to be a part. I am also addicted to Etsy. I'm a member of the admin team for the Florida Etsy Street Team and co-planner of some local indie type shows. My plans for future craft endeveors include glass bead making and resin jewelry. Give me a shout if you visit the sunshine state. Craft-on!!!!
Katie Skiff : Staff Reporter
My name is Katie Skiff, and I live on the Rural hi-line of Montana, with my husband Greg and our three kids, David, RC and McKinley. I've had an obsession with Papercrafting since my first Creative Memories crop 8 years ago. I started scrapbooking with our wedding album and my baby shower pictures for our oldest. I soon learned about rubber stamping and card making, and haven't had to buy a store card since. I am passionate about both hobbies, but I also enjoy quilting and sewing, as well as cross stitching from time to time. Currently I am a stay at home mom, enjoying being able to be here for my family as well as spending time in my craft room.
Emilie Ahern : Staff Reporter
I am a 30 year old wife and a mommy of two little red-haired girls. I have been scrapping since 1997. I love scrapping because I feel that it is not only an opportunity to express yourself and be creative, but is also a way to tell the true and genuine story of your life. My passion is journaling. I have an unhealthy addicition to... Project Runway, creme brulee, the color orange, scrapbooking, writing life stories, hanging with girlfriends, blogging, carbohydrates and cool Indie music. I mostly do paper scrapping, but once in a while I make cards, altered items and digi scrap. The more ways to scrap the better right? I am on eight Design Teams and my work has appeared in Creating Keepsakes, Simple Scrapbooks, Paper Crafts, Scrapbooks Etc., Memory Makers, Scrapbook Trends, Digital Scrapbooking, Scrapbook Retailer and others.
Tracy Shultz : Staff Reporter
From day one, curiosity and creativity ruled my life. As a child, I dreamed of being an artist, carrying my Prismacolor pencils everywhere I went. Despite my desires, I settled for a more practical career path. I attended Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts, majoring in Public Relations and Marketing Communications (try saying that three times fast!). At times I balanced three jobs alongside my studies. I dabbled in psychology, graphic design, journalism, animation, and history. After graduating, I worked a series of jobs, always struggling to find my place in this world. It wasn’t until a few years ago, when I began crafting again, that I was able to let my worries go. Crafting allowed me that release I sought after for so long.
I currently work full time as an Information Technology Specialist for a growing local healthcare company and freelance web design through my own company. My husband and I just bought our first house less than a year ago and are working on turning it into a home. My passions include jewelry making, papercrafting, sewing, photography, gardening, webdesign, running, and playing tennis and volleyball. I can’t sit still unless I’m doing something.
As new homeowners, our budget is always strained. I love finding ways to craft for less. Of course, that just leaves more money to buy more craft supplies!
I was born and raised in Akron, Ohio and am graduate of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. I am currently teaching media-related courses at Penn State New Kensington. I have been published in Cards magazine and have had my work displayed in the Basic Grey gallery. In addition to card making, I enjoy reading, hip hop music and am venturing into the digital scrapbooking world.
Well hello! My name is Amber Ulmer and I am 24 years old and live in Old Hickory, Tennessee. I have been scrapbooking for almost 2 years now and am pretty much addicted to this paper hobby. I am married to my best friend, Josh Ulmer and we have 2 pups. Roxy Lucille, a boxer mix, and Harley Vaughn, a pug mix. They are the primary focus of my scrapbook pages. I recently joined the amazingly talented design team at Scrap In Style TV and am so excited to be a FASHIONISTA! I am also on the creative team for the challenge blog, One Little Word. When I am not scrapbooking, I am photographing. My husband and I have started our photography business, Ulmer Studios and are enjoying capturing life's precious moments of the families in our area. Ever since I received my first digital SLR camera in 2006, it has become such a huge passion of mine. We are excited to see how God uses us in this ministry. My favorite scrapbooking products would have to be Hambly, Love,Elsie, Bam Pop, and American Crafts. I pretty much could not scrapbook with out Thickers. I have an embarrassing addition to those. I am a banker by day and a scrapper by night and professional photographer on the weekends. I love the outdoors... especially the beach and the wilderness. We love to go camping and are dying to try rock climbing. We'll see if that ever happens though since my husband is afraid of heights... haha! I'm excited to join the staff of reporters at Craft Critique!
Shannon Shafer : Jewelry Specialist
I love beads! I am addicted to crafting. Jewelry, felt, clay, oh my! I live in Sunny Florida in the hip town of St. Petersburg. The Burg is where it's at. The art scene is boomin' and I am glad to be a part. I am also addicted to Etsy. I'm a member of the admin team for the Florida Etsy Street Team and co-planner of some local indie type shows. My plans for future craft endeveors include glass bead making and resin jewelry. Give me a shout if you visit the sunshine state. Craft-on!!!!Katie Skiff : Staff Reporter
My name is Katie Skiff, and I live on the Rural hi-line of Montana, with my husband Greg and our three kids, David, RC and McKinley. I've had an obsession with Papercrafting since my first Creative Memories crop 8 years ago. I started scrapbooking with our wedding album and my baby shower pictures for our oldest. I soon learned about rubber stamping and card making, and haven't had to buy a store card since. I am passionate about both hobbies, but I also enjoy quilting and sewing, as well as cross stitching from time to time. Currently I am a stay at home mom, enjoying being able to be here for my family as well as spending time in my craft room.Emilie Ahern : Staff Reporter
I am a 30 year old wife and a mommy of two little red-haired girls. I have been scrapping since 1997. I love scrapping because I feel that it is not only an opportunity to express yourself and be creative, but is also a way to tell the true and genuine story of your life. My passion is journaling. I have an unhealthy addicition to... Project Runway, creme brulee, the color orange, scrapbooking, writing life stories, hanging with girlfriends, blogging, carbohydrates and cool Indie music. I mostly do paper scrapping, but once in a while I make cards, altered items and digi scrap. The more ways to scrap the better right? I am on eight Design Teams and my work has appeared in Creating Keepsakes, Simple Scrapbooks, Paper Crafts, Scrapbooks Etc., Memory Makers, Scrapbook Trends, Digital Scrapbooking, Scrapbook Retailer and others.Tracy Shultz : Staff Reporter
From day one, curiosity and creativity ruled my life. As a child, I dreamed of being an artist, carrying my Prismacolor pencils everywhere I went. Despite my desires, I settled for a more practical career path. I attended Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts, majoring in Public Relations and Marketing Communications (try saying that three times fast!). At times I balanced three jobs alongside my studies. I dabbled in psychology, graphic design, journalism, animation, and history. After graduating, I worked a series of jobs, always struggling to find my place in this world. It wasn’t until a few years ago, when I began crafting again, that I was able to let my worries go. Crafting allowed me that release I sought after for so long.I currently work full time as an Information Technology Specialist for a growing local healthcare company and freelance web design through my own company. My husband and I just bought our first house less than a year ago and are working on turning it into a home. My passions include jewelry making, papercrafting, sewing, photography, gardening, webdesign, running, and playing tennis and volleyball. I can’t sit still unless I’m doing something.
As new homeowners, our budget is always strained. I love finding ways to craft for less. Of course, that just leaves more money to buy more craft supplies!
Kim Fox : Staff Reporter
I was born and raised in Akron, Ohio and am graduate of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. I am currently teaching media-related courses at Penn State New Kensington. I have been published in Cards magazine and have had my work displayed in the Basic Grey gallery. In addition to card making, I enjoy reading, hip hop music and am venturing into the digital scrapbooking world.Amber Ulmer : Staff Reporter
Well hello! My name is Amber Ulmer and I am 24 years old and live in Old Hickory, Tennessee. I have been scrapbooking for almost 2 years now and am pretty much addicted to this paper hobby. I am married to my best friend, Josh Ulmer and we have 2 pups. Roxy Lucille, a boxer mix, and Harley Vaughn, a pug mix. They are the primary focus of my scrapbook pages. I recently joined the amazingly talented design team at Scrap In Style TV and am so excited to be a FASHIONISTA! I am also on the creative team for the challenge blog, One Little Word. When I am not scrapbooking, I am photographing. My husband and I have started our photography business, Ulmer Studios and are enjoying capturing life's precious moments of the families in our area. Ever since I received my first digital SLR camera in 2006, it has become such a huge passion of mine. We are excited to see how God uses us in this ministry. My favorite scrapbooking products would have to be Hambly, Love,Elsie, Bam Pop, and American Crafts. I pretty much could not scrapbook with out Thickers. I have an embarrassing addition to those. I am a banker by day and a scrapper by night and professional photographer on the weekends. I love the outdoors... especially the beach and the wilderness. We love to go camping and are dying to try rock climbing. We'll see if that ever happens though since my husband is afraid of heights... haha! I'm excited to join the staff of reporters at Craft Critique!
March 19, 2008
More New Reporters!
Here's the second group of new reporters. Give them a warm welcome!
Meredith Taylor : Staff Reporter
Hello Hello. I'm Meredith and I am 25 years old. I'm a NW Indiana Hoosier, transplanted to South Florida who is currently en route to NYC! (totally excited...) I have a really amazing and creative husband Joseph and two kids of the canine persuasion, Crystal & Roxy.
I'm addicted to learning and trying new things... art, photography, crafts, travel, music, fashion, flea markets, food, and on and on. I collect just about anything and everything (sunglasses and owls are my fav!) and have too many books. I am a product hoarder and new product junkie, I'll admit it! I love my creative outlets and the freedom I have to explore them... I am committed to making, learning, and experiencing the art of everyday.
Kristine Fowler : Staff Reporter
First and foremost I am a stay-at-home Mom with 2 great kids (a boy 7 and a girl 6) and an incredible husband that supports me in everything that I do. We live in Hamilton, Ontario. I also work from home, operating a multi-media design company specializing in computer graphics and presentation materials. In my spare time (when I'm not working or running the kids around), I am an Independent Consultant with Close To My Heart. I absolutely love the flexibility of working from home as it has allowed me to spend time with my kids that I might have otherwise missed if I was working for someone else.
While I am willing to tackle just about anything crafty, I definately have a passion for paper crafts -- scrapbooking, cardmaking & altered art. I have been scrapbooking for about 13 years now, and have been stamping for about 5 years. Despite the fact that I work with computers day-to-day, I have not yet ventured into the world of digital scrapbooking. While I am amazed and intrigued by the possibilities afforded by digi-scrapping, right now I am still enjoying the tactile nature of the art in it's traditional (paper) form.
I also enjoy sharing what I know about paper arts with others which is why I became a Close To My Heart demonstrator, which is why I blog, and is why I was intrigued by the possibility of becoming a Craft Critique Staff Reporter. I am truly looking forward to this opportunity -- I can't wait to get started.
Dana Vitek : Staff Reporter
I'm so happy to be joining the Craft Critique staff! My name is Dana Vitek, and I'm a 34 year-old craft supply addict. I've been stamping for about 10 years, still have the first stamp I ever bought (it's a bunch of daffodils), and once I discovered the magic of embossing powder, I was HOOKED! I've been stamping ever since, much to my husband's chagrin. Actually, I'm lucky in that my husband isa graphic designer, and understands the importance of good tools and supplies. We've been married for 8 years, and have two fabulously frustrating kids: Max is 5 and KNOWS everything, Jenny is 17 months and is INTO everything.
My family and I live in Delaware, which, among other things, is famous for having no sales tax (YAY!) and being close to everything cool. I'm 45 minutes from Philadelphia and Baltimore, and about 2 hours from New York City and Washington D.C. Not that I ever go anywhere, but I could!
I work (very) part-time as a geologist and have a Bachelor's degree in Geology and a Master's in Geophysics. Even though geology is probably the most creative ofthe sciences, I found myself in a not-so-creative career. Desperate for an artistic outlet,I stumbled into Interior Design classes at a local art college, and wound up with an Associate's degree in picking colors for other people. Still no tcontent, I started studying Floral Design at Longwood Gardens, and am now a certified Floral Designer. I also design jewelry, and dabble in stained glass. I just learned how to crochet, so my husband is dealing with yet another of my obsessions.
I'm really looking forward to getting started! Watch this space... I could write something brilliant at any moment!
Carolyn King : Staff Reporter
Meredith Taylor : Staff Reporter
Hello Hello. I'm Meredith and I am 25 years old. I'm a NW Indiana Hoosier, transplanted to South Florida who is currently en route to NYC! (totally excited...) I have a really amazing and creative husband Joseph and two kids of the canine persuasion, Crystal & Roxy.I'm addicted to learning and trying new things... art, photography, crafts, travel, music, fashion, flea markets, food, and on and on. I collect just about anything and everything (sunglasses and owls are my fav!) and have too many books. I am a product hoarder and new product junkie, I'll admit it! I love my creative outlets and the freedom I have to explore them... I am committed to making, learning, and experiencing the art of everyday.
Kristine Fowler : Staff Reporter
First and foremost I am a stay-at-home Mom with 2 great kids (a boy 7 and a girl 6) and an incredible husband that supports me in everything that I do. We live in Hamilton, Ontario. I also work from home, operating a multi-media design company specializing in computer graphics and presentation materials. In my spare time (when I'm not working or running the kids around), I am an Independent Consultant with Close To My Heart. I absolutely love the flexibility of working from home as it has allowed me to spend time with my kids that I might have otherwise missed if I was working for someone else.While I am willing to tackle just about anything crafty, I definately have a passion for paper crafts -- scrapbooking, cardmaking & altered art. I have been scrapbooking for about 13 years now, and have been stamping for about 5 years. Despite the fact that I work with computers day-to-day, I have not yet ventured into the world of digital scrapbooking. While I am amazed and intrigued by the possibilities afforded by digi-scrapping, right now I am still enjoying the tactile nature of the art in it's traditional (paper) form.
I also enjoy sharing what I know about paper arts with others which is why I became a Close To My Heart demonstrator, which is why I blog, and is why I was intrigued by the possibility of becoming a Craft Critique Staff Reporter. I am truly looking forward to this opportunity -- I can't wait to get started.
Dana Vitek : Staff Reporter
I'm so happy to be joining the Craft Critique staff! My name is Dana Vitek, and I'm a 34 year-old craft supply addict. I've been stamping for about 10 years, still have the first stamp I ever bought (it's a bunch of daffodils), and once I discovered the magic of embossing powder, I was HOOKED! I've been stamping ever since, much to my husband's chagrin. Actually, I'm lucky in that my husband isa graphic designer, and understands the importance of good tools and supplies. We've been married for 8 years, and have two fabulously frustrating kids: Max is 5 and KNOWS everything, Jenny is 17 months and is INTO everything.My family and I live in Delaware, which, among other things, is famous for having no sales tax (YAY!) and being close to everything cool. I'm 45 minutes from Philadelphia and Baltimore, and about 2 hours from New York City and Washington D.C. Not that I ever go anywhere, but I could!
I work (very) part-time as a geologist and have a Bachelor's degree in Geology and a Master's in Geophysics. Even though geology is probably the most creative ofthe sciences, I found myself in a not-so-creative career. Desperate for an artistic outlet,I stumbled into Interior Design classes at a local art college, and wound up with an Associate's degree in picking colors for other people. Still no tcontent, I started studying Floral Design at Longwood Gardens, and am now a certified Floral Designer. I also design jewelry, and dabble in stained glass. I just learned how to crochet, so my husband is dealing with yet another of my obsessions.
I'm really looking forward to getting started! Watch this space... I could write something brilliant at any moment!
Carolyn King : Staff Reporter
I'm Carolyn King and I'm a stay at home mother of three children. I took up papercrafting when my husband’s job as an army anesthesiologist moved me away from my job as a Pubic Relations Director. In order to be home with my children, I took up scrapbooking three years ago and soon got hooked on cardmaking. I am a designer for three stamp companies, have my own line of stamps distributed by Gina K. Designs and have had many of my cards published in national magazines
Amy Migliore : Staff Reporter
I grew up surrounded by musicians and artists, markers and sketch pads, kilns & potter’s wheels. I spent weekends as a child at craft fairs, museums, parks and other aesthetic pursuits. Needless to say, I was one of those lucky kids whose hippie-dippie parents encouraged her to pursue the arts. After finishing with a high school art academy, I pursued my degree in Fine Arts with minors in theater and voice (There are as many musicians as there are artists in my family). Along the way, I came to the realization that being around people, sharing with them and teaching is what invigorates me. I pursued my teaching certificate and have been a high school art educator for the past 10 years. After embarking on the adventure of marriage to my best friend, I also discovered two little red heads that invigorate my life—my sons, who were born 11 months apart and are the most curious little monkeys I know. I dabble with many art mediums but have concentrated most of my effort into scrapbooking over the past 7 years. I have done many freelance assignments in murals, photography and continue to move toward my aspirations of bring an author.
Julie Campbell : Staff Reporter
Hi! My name is Julie Campbell. Some of you might know me from my blog, Stamped In His Image. I am a mom of two energetic boys (6 & 2) and also work as an operating room nurse at a pediatric hospital. We live in a small, rural town in Indiana. When you're surrounded by cornfields, it's good to have a hobby! Like a lot of people, crafting is my therapy! Over the years, I've done everything from quilting to painting to pottery... but when I discovered paper crafting a few years ago, I knew I had found my niche. I have a strong addiction to the 'newest & greatest' products in the crafting world and also love to write. So, when I heard that there was an opportunity to join Craft Critique's team, I jumped at the chance! I am really excited and can't wait to share my 'newest & greatest' discoveries with you!
March 18, 2008
New Reporter Bios
How about we all get to know some of our new reporters? I promise these are in no particular order (just how they popped into my email inbox). So please read these bios, visit their blogs, and give these fabulous ladies a great Craft Critique welcome!
Nicole Seitler : Webmaster and Digi Specialist
My name is Nicole Seitler. I’m a 31 year-old work-at-home wife and mother to two beautiful children. I’m originally from Florida, but now I live with my family in beautiful Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
I discovered the art of rubber stamping when a girlfriend sent me a pack of handmade baby thank you cards after my daughter was born. I had never considered myself to be a crafty person before, but rubber stamping really appealed to me and I fell in love. Since then, my passion for all sorts of handmade things has exploded. Now I knit, stamp, scrapbook, sew and even quilt. What a blast it's been! Then one day, I stumbled on to the wonderful world of Digital Scrapbooking. I now have my own digital scrapbooking shop, Sugarplum Paperie. It's a dream come true! But one of the main reasons I'm here on Craft Critique is that my husband and I are rather geeky and know a bit about web design. So, I'll be lending a hand here not only as a "digi reporter," but as webmaster, as well. I'm honored to be here!
Susie Zeigler : Fabric Specialist
I'm a lifelong crafty-person. I tend to make fiber-art things that involve needles, hooks, or thread. If your Grandma knew a particular fiber craft, chances are that it's on my list of things to make. My crafty interests are in quilting, embroidery, crochet, light sewing,and some knitting. Papercraft and gooey-gluey things do not tempt me quite as much, but I've been known to try those too! I am a once-and-future elementary school teacher, but I've been home in the far northwest suburbs of Chicago with my 2 school-aged children avoiding housework for more than a a decade.
Katie Renz : Staff Reporter
Hi, my name is Katie Renz and I live in Bellingham, WA. with my husband of almost 15 years. We have an 8 year old son and twin 2 year old boys that keep us busy.
My sister was the one that introduced me to scrapbooking years ago. I really enjoyed it and have dabbled in it for the past 7 years. It wasn't until we decided that I would stay home full time a little over a year ago with the twins that I began to focus on my papercrafting. Within this past year my hobby has become a full time obsession. I have recently joined the blogging world as well and have enjoyed this avenue for meeting as well as sharing my passion with people from all over the world.
I am excited to be included in Craft Critique's vision. As a craft enthusiast I have always enjoyed reading what other people's experience and opinions were about products that I was thinking about using myself. I am looking forward to sharing my opinions and thoughts with all of you.
Sara McKenzie : Staff Reporter
I'm Sara McKenzie, living in the suburbs west of Boston, Massachusetts with my two standard poodles, Truman and Margaux.
I've been doing crafty things as long as I can remember! It started with sewing and knitting, and grew from there to include every kind of needlework, ceramics, polymer clay, jewelry-making, stained glass... You name it and I've tried it! I've found a long-lasting interest in the artistic use of rubber stamps, and have created a business based on my passion for crafts, called Sara Jane's Studio. I teach classes locally, and am developing online tutorials as well. Happily, I make books, boxes, jewelry, cards, journals, home decor, and anything else that can be fabricated from paper or cardstock, fiber, embellishments, rubber stamps, ink, and a little glue.
Nancy Beyer : Assistant Vendor Coordinator and General Craft Specialist
I am Nan. A survivor of many challenging events. Lover of: Pugs, Starbucks, Cubs, technology, magazines, stickers, my home, embellishments, traveling, scrapping, plain M&M's, fabric, photography, art, sewing, history, reading non-required books, movies, cropping events, basically all things crafty, words, writing, Antique Safari's, finding new crafting vendors and "things", shopping, talking to friends, Gossip Girl and my 4 channel television, Procurement, and all things anglophiley(lover of British STUFF). I live in the Chicago 'burbs with my Pug, Aine (a.k.a. Britannia Aine Grainne Sasha or B.A.G.S.).
Mary Chong : Staff Reporter
I'm Mary and I'm a professional graphic designer in the medical communications field and reside in Ontario, Canada. I have been married for 18 years to a wonderful man who understands (tolerates) my addiction to paper, and have no children, leaving plenty of free time for scrapping! I have been published six times and won first place in the Craft Critique 2007 Celebrations contest with my "GaGa Over You" round mini book album in a box. An active blogger, I have 3 paper-craft related blogs running simultaneously. I also keep busy teaching rubber stamping and scrapbooking at my local scrapbooking store and am member of the stores design team.
Nicole Seitler : Webmaster and Digi Specialist
My name is Nicole Seitler. I’m a 31 year-old work-at-home wife and mother to two beautiful children. I’m originally from Florida, but now I live with my family in beautiful Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.I discovered the art of rubber stamping when a girlfriend sent me a pack of handmade baby thank you cards after my daughter was born. I had never considered myself to be a crafty person before, but rubber stamping really appealed to me and I fell in love. Since then, my passion for all sorts of handmade things has exploded. Now I knit, stamp, scrapbook, sew and even quilt. What a blast it's been! Then one day, I stumbled on to the wonderful world of Digital Scrapbooking. I now have my own digital scrapbooking shop, Sugarplum Paperie. It's a dream come true! But one of the main reasons I'm here on Craft Critique is that my husband and I are rather geeky and know a bit about web design. So, I'll be lending a hand here not only as a "digi reporter," but as webmaster, as well. I'm honored to be here!
Susie Zeigler : Fabric Specialist
I'm a lifelong crafty-person. I tend to make fiber-art things that involve needles, hooks, or thread. If your Grandma knew a particular fiber craft, chances are that it's on my list of things to make. My crafty interests are in quilting, embroidery, crochet, light sewing,and some knitting. Papercraft and gooey-gluey things do not tempt me quite as much, but I've been known to try those too! I am a once-and-future elementary school teacher, but I've been home in the far northwest suburbs of Chicago with my 2 school-aged children avoiding housework for more than a a decade.Katie Renz : Staff Reporter
Hi, my name is Katie Renz and I live in Bellingham, WA. with my husband of almost 15 years. We have an 8 year old son and twin 2 year old boys that keep us busy.My sister was the one that introduced me to scrapbooking years ago. I really enjoyed it and have dabbled in it for the past 7 years. It wasn't until we decided that I would stay home full time a little over a year ago with the twins that I began to focus on my papercrafting. Within this past year my hobby has become a full time obsession. I have recently joined the blogging world as well and have enjoyed this avenue for meeting as well as sharing my passion with people from all over the world.
I am excited to be included in Craft Critique's vision. As a craft enthusiast I have always enjoyed reading what other people's experience and opinions were about products that I was thinking about using myself. I am looking forward to sharing my opinions and thoughts with all of you.
Sara McKenzie : Staff Reporter
I'm Sara McKenzie, living in the suburbs west of Boston, Massachusetts with my two standard poodles, Truman and Margaux.I've been doing crafty things as long as I can remember! It started with sewing and knitting, and grew from there to include every kind of needlework, ceramics, polymer clay, jewelry-making, stained glass... You name it and I've tried it! I've found a long-lasting interest in the artistic use of rubber stamps, and have created a business based on my passion for crafts, called Sara Jane's Studio. I teach classes locally, and am developing online tutorials as well. Happily, I make books, boxes, jewelry, cards, journals, home decor, and anything else that can be fabricated from paper or cardstock, fiber, embellishments, rubber stamps, ink, and a little glue.
Nancy Beyer : Assistant Vendor Coordinator and General Craft Specialist
I am Nan. A survivor of many challenging events. Lover of: Pugs, Starbucks, Cubs, technology, magazines, stickers, my home, embellishments, traveling, scrapping, plain M&M's, fabric, photography, art, sewing, history, reading non-required books, movies, cropping events, basically all things crafty, words, writing, Antique Safari's, finding new crafting vendors and "things", shopping, talking to friends, Gossip Girl and my 4 channel television, Procurement, and all things anglophiley(lover of British STUFF). I live in the Chicago 'burbs with my Pug, Aine (a.k.a. Britannia Aine Grainne Sasha or B.A.G.S.).Mary Chong : Staff Reporter
I'm Mary and I'm a professional graphic designer in the medical communications field and reside in Ontario, Canada. I have been married for 18 years to a wonderful man who understands (tolerates) my addiction to paper, and have no children, leaving plenty of free time for scrapping! I have been published six times and won first place in the Craft Critique 2007 Celebrations contest with my "GaGa Over You" round mini book album in a box. An active blogger, I have 3 paper-craft related blogs running simultaneously. I also keep busy teaching rubber stamping and scrapbooking at my local scrapbooking store and am member of the stores design team.I think there are many great and not-so-great products out there and as a consumer, it is important to make an informed decision and spend your money wisely. The world of crafts changes with each season, you have to keep up with trends and products if you want to stay current as a paper crafter. As a staff reporter with Craft Critique, I hope to give readers a fun, informative, and unbiased user review that you can count on. So scrap on, and I look forward to seeing you on the site!
March 17, 2008
The New Reporters... Here They Are!
Firstly, let me say... selecting this wonderful team was next to impossible! We had so many amazing submissions. There sure is a lot of talent out there! If you did NOT make it, I hope you will reapply the next time we have a call.
Now without further ado... please join me in congratulating...
Staff Reporters
Amber Ulmer
Emilie Ahern
Simone Collins
Mary Chong
Kristine Fowler
Dana Vitek
Carolyn King
Katie Renz
Julie Campbell
Katie Skiff
Amy Miglorie
Sara McKenzie
Tracy Schultz
Kim Fox
Meredith Taylor
Shannon Shafer: Jewelry Specialist
Susie Ziegler: Fabric Specialist
Nancy Beyer: Assistant Vendor Coordinator and General Craft Specialist
Nicole Seitler: Webmaster and Digi Specialist
Stay tuned for more details about our new staff in the following days.
Now without further ado... please join me in congratulating...
Staff Reporters
Amber Ulmer
Emilie Ahern
Simone Collins
Mary Chong
Kristine Fowler
Dana Vitek
Carolyn King
Katie Renz
Julie Campbell
Katie Skiff
Amy Miglorie
Sara McKenzie
Tracy Schultz
Kim Fox
Meredith Taylor
Shannon Shafer: Jewelry Specialist
Susie Ziegler: Fabric Specialist
Nancy Beyer: Assistant Vendor Coordinator and General Craft Specialist
Nicole Seitler: Webmaster and Digi Specialist
Stay tuned for more details about our new staff in the following days.
March 15, 2008
The New Reporters...
... are not answering their emails!
I am sort of kidding... but we are having difficulty contacting all of our new reporters to tell them the news! It's not spring break right??? lol!
Anywhoo... stay tuned, as soon as all the new reporters have been reached we will announce the team... hopefully tomorrow!
I am sort of kidding... but we are having difficulty contacting all of our new reporters to tell them the news! It's not spring break right??? lol!
Anywhoo... stay tuned, as soon as all the new reporters have been reached we will announce the team... hopefully tomorrow!
February 12, 2008
Typin's Hard Ya'll!
Here's what we didn't know... We need more than two laptops! We have been editing pics and typing non-stop... BUT we are low on memory and the internet access is sketchy... so bear with us... we will have more after the show ends... and we hope to post at least once more before we head home... but rest-assured, we are going to upload these sneak peeks ASAP!!!!
February 8, 2008
Do You Know Your Way to CHA?
Get it??? CHA : San Jose?
Just a little note for our CHA (Craft And Hobby Association) attending Readers and Reporter Applicants...
Craft Critique will be at CHA Saturday, February 9th - Wednesday, February 13th. If you are NOT attending CHA then you may just want to take off work that week so you can read Craft Critique all day long. The sneak peeks will start tomorrow... so stay tuned and tell your friends and neighbors. :)
If you ARE attending CHA we'd LOVE to hear your take on the event! ALL READERS attending CHA are invited to email us their reviews of the new products/lines being debuted at CHA. Just Email your articles and photos (in attachments please) to info@craftcritique.com. Please include your contact info and link to your blog.
We may publish your article... but ALL readers who submit a CHA review will be entered into a raffle to win a special box of goodies! Stay tuned... those of you who are not attending will have a chance to win something fun too! (HINT: Commenting on CHA related posts and linking to the posts from your blog might help increase your odds of winning!)
Also: if you have applied for our reporter call and you are attending CHA, please let us know! We would love to meet you and get to know you better! Just email us at info@craftcritique.com and give us your name and cell number.
Enjoy the week!
Just a little note for our CHA (Craft And Hobby Association) attending Readers and Reporter Applicants...
Craft Critique will be at CHA Saturday, February 9th - Wednesday, February 13th. If you are NOT attending CHA then you may just want to take off work that week so you can read Craft Critique all day long. The sneak peeks will start tomorrow... so stay tuned and tell your friends and neighbors. :)
If you ARE attending CHA we'd LOVE to hear your take on the event! ALL READERS attending CHA are invited to email us their reviews of the new products/lines being debuted at CHA. Just Email your articles and photos (in attachments please) to info@craftcritique.com. Please include your contact info and link to your blog.
We may publish your article... but ALL readers who submit a CHA review will be entered into a raffle to win a special box of goodies! Stay tuned... those of you who are not attending will have a chance to win something fun too! (HINT: Commenting on CHA related posts and linking to the posts from your blog might help increase your odds of winning!)
Also: if you have applied for our reporter call and you are attending CHA, please let us know! We would love to meet you and get to know you better! Just email us at info@craftcritique.com and give us your name and cell number.
Enjoy the week!
January 28, 2008
Call for New Reporters!
EDIT: We are extending this call to February 29th. Plus we are now allowing applicants who have been blogging for less than 3 months. Please review the call again!
We especially seeking scrapbookers and multi-media artists with a strength in papercraft. Digital and hybrid artists are also encouraged to apply!
It's about that time... Craft Critique is growing by leaps and bounds! In the past six months we have doubled our subscribers and more companies are contacting us wanting to have our reporters review their new newest craft products. Frankly, we can barely keep up! We need YOUR help. We are seeking new reporters to help us for the coming year, and we hope to increase our support staff as well. Please feel free to forward this post to your crafty pals who you think would be a great addition to our team!
What's in it for you? Besides being a ton of fun... Increased traffic to your blog; Craft Critique is a place where all our reporters can connect and share readers, introducing new traffic to each other's blogs! Being a reporter for Craft Critique can be a wonderful stepping stone if you have aspirations of writing professionally or building a craft related publication resume. Many of our reporters are stay at home moms, and their work with Craft Critique is helping to fulfill their desire to connect with other adults in a professional atmosphere.
CC reporters can receive Press credentials to industry events in exchange for their reporting of the event... free stuff! Our reporters occasionally receive complementary products to review. Craft Critique is a new and growing collective. We have high aspirations for the future and growth opportunities may be availible! Craft Critique reporters retain ownership of their articles, projects and photos and may use them in other publications.
Our goal for the coming year is to bring our staff to a total of 20 or more! So we have MANY open positions. We are looking for a variety of reporters. Must have basic knowledge in blogging and how to post to a blog, digital photography and good writing/communication skills. Crafting skills must be above average. Knowledge of the use and personal preferences of crafting products and tools is a must. All entrants must have a craft related blog or website. Must be a resident of the United States or Canada.
We are looking to fill the following positions:
Basic Staff Reporters: Individuals that have talents in the arena of paper, stamping and scrapbooking. At this time most of our reporters are stampers... so we are especially in search of individuals who have experience with scrapbooking. Reporters will have the opportunity to review products gifted to them to review and also products from their own collection of tools/product. Must submit 2-3 articles per month. Reporters may suggest products and tools to review. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite Die cutting equipment, Paper Trimmer or Circle/Shaper Cutter. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
The following positions are for "Specialty Reporters". Specialty Reporters will be required to write one article per month. Must be self initiated in selecting their own topics and article submissions. Reporters will be required to coordinate product reviews in coordination with the Vendor Coordination staff. You will not be financially compensated but may receive free products to review.
Digi-scrap Specialty Reporters: We are looking for at least one reporter with Digi-scrapping experience. May also serve as our Website Coordinator (see position listed below under Support Staff). Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite Digi-Scrapping kit. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
Knitting/Crochet Specialty Reporter: We are looking for one reporter with Knitting and Crochet skills. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite Knitting or Crochet Tool. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
Fabric/Sewing/Stitching Specialty Reporter: We are looking for at least one reporter with skills in embroidery, sewing, and related fabric crafts. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite fabric craft related tool, product or book... other than your sewing machine. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
Jewelry Specialty Reporter: This individual must have skills in basic Jewelry making. Skill set need not include soldering, lapidary and metal work... but those basic beading skills common to the at home crafter. Knowledge in polymer clays a plus. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite jewelry related tool, product or book. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
The following positions are for "Support Staff Positions". These individuals will act as core support staff for our reporters. They may also serve as reporters. These are volunteer positions as are all Craft Critique "jobs". You will not be financially compensated for your participation but you may receive free products to review.
Website Coordinator: This individual must have basic website programing skills; enough skill to add links, graphics and changes to the website on a regular basis and create said graphics. This individual will update the website on a regular basis in coordination with other support staff. This will include a complete redesign of the blog and possibly assist with a switch to a new blog host. Graphic design, Web-design, Digi-scrapping and other craft experience a plus. We would love to offer this position to an individual who owns his/her own business in blog support, website or graphic design who could benefit from exchanging their services for promotional links from Craft Critique. We would also hope that this individual would also be our digi-scrap reporter... but we are exploring all possibilities. Requested Essay Submission: Please write a short detail on the unique skills you bring to this position and how you might be able to improve or enhance the Craft Critique Blog.
Assistant Vendor Coordinator: assist the existing Vendor coordinator in contacting possible vendors about product reviews. Knowledge of the papercrafting/scrapbooking market and sales or marketing experience a plus. Requested Essay Submission: write a short detail on your skill set specific to this position and possible reviews you'd like to see featured in future posts. Tell us how you would approach possible vendors about having their products reviewed on Craft Critique.
Submission Specifics for all entries:
Email your submission to sarah@craftcritique.com before 2/29/08. New reporters will be notified by 3/15/08.
Your article, projects and photos need not have been created especially for this submission/call. Feel free to submit previously published work for our review, as long as we are free to use it. Your essay/article and photos may be published in a future post on Craft Critique. By submitting to this call you grant Craft Critique the limited use of your essay/article and photos for posting to our blog. You will retain ownership of your article, projects and photos.
If you are applying for multiple positions you may do so in one email. Please include an additional essay for each position you are applying for.
Please include the following personal details with your submission. Feel free to copy and paste the following section directly into your email. Forward all questions to sarah@craftcritique.com
Position or positions you are applying for:
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Blogs:
Forums and online communities you frequent:
Primary Craft Skills (skills you have expertise in):
Secondary Craft Skills (skills you have some experience with, but perhaps not expertise):
Professional Craft Companies Associated with; list those craft related companies you may own, work for, be on a design team with, or be otherwise professionally associated with. Please include basic details about the nature of those relationships.
Why would you like to be a reporter for Craft Critique? Let us know briefly why you'd like to be a part of our team.
Anything else we need to know? Feel free to let us know anything else that would help us get to know you better!
Information to include with your submission article: Be sure to include the name of the product/tool/book and where it was purchased, the price you paid (US or Canadian) and recommended retailers (if any) for purchase. List and describe product pros and cons and how the reviewed product compares to other similar products you have tried. Include a photo of the product (it's ok to use photos found online at manufacturer or retailer websites, just list where the product photo is from if you did not take it yourself). At least one photo of a project completed with the product is a must.
Please include your photos as .jpg attachments. Within the article, list where the photos should appear by name. Please include no more than three photos with your submission.
We especially seeking scrapbookers and multi-media artists with a strength in papercraft. Digital and hybrid artists are also encouraged to apply!
It's about that time... Craft Critique is growing by leaps and bounds! In the past six months we have doubled our subscribers and more companies are contacting us wanting to have our reporters review their new newest craft products. Frankly, we can barely keep up! We need YOUR help. We are seeking new reporters to help us for the coming year, and we hope to increase our support staff as well. Please feel free to forward this post to your crafty pals who you think would be a great addition to our team!
What's in it for you? Besides being a ton of fun... Increased traffic to your blog; Craft Critique is a place where all our reporters can connect and share readers, introducing new traffic to each other's blogs! Being a reporter for Craft Critique can be a wonderful stepping stone if you have aspirations of writing professionally or building a craft related publication resume. Many of our reporters are stay at home moms, and their work with Craft Critique is helping to fulfill their desire to connect with other adults in a professional atmosphere.
CC reporters can receive Press credentials to industry events in exchange for their reporting of the event... free stuff! Our reporters occasionally receive complementary products to review. Craft Critique is a new and growing collective. We have high aspirations for the future and growth opportunities may be availible! Craft Critique reporters retain ownership of their articles, projects and photos and may use them in other publications.
Our goal for the coming year is to bring our staff to a total of 20 or more! So we have MANY open positions. We are looking for a variety of reporters. Must have basic knowledge in blogging and how to post to a blog, digital photography and good writing/communication skills. Crafting skills must be above average. Knowledge of the use and personal preferences of crafting products and tools is a must. All entrants must have a craft related blog or website. Must be a resident of the United States or Canada.
We are looking to fill the following positions:
Basic Staff Reporters: Individuals that have talents in the arena of paper, stamping and scrapbooking. At this time most of our reporters are stampers... so we are especially in search of individuals who have experience with scrapbooking. Reporters will have the opportunity to review products gifted to them to review and also products from their own collection of tools/product. Must submit 2-3 articles per month. Reporters may suggest products and tools to review. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite Die cutting equipment, Paper Trimmer or Circle/Shaper Cutter. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
The following positions are for "Specialty Reporters". Specialty Reporters will be required to write one article per month. Must be self initiated in selecting their own topics and article submissions. Reporters will be required to coordinate product reviews in coordination with the Vendor Coordination staff. You will not be financially compensated but may receive free products to review.
Digi-scrap Specialty Reporters: We are looking for at least one reporter with Digi-scrapping experience. May also serve as our Website Coordinator (see position listed below under Support Staff). Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite Digi-Scrapping kit. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
Knitting/Crochet Specialty Reporter: We are looking for one reporter with Knitting and Crochet skills. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite Knitting or Crochet Tool. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
Fabric/Sewing/Stitching Specialty Reporter: We are looking for at least one reporter with skills in embroidery, sewing, and related fabric crafts. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite fabric craft related tool, product or book... other than your sewing machine. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
Jewelry Specialty Reporter: This individual must have skills in basic Jewelry making. Skill set need not include soldering, lapidary and metal work... but those basic beading skills common to the at home crafter. Knowledge in polymer clays a plus. Requested Essay Submission: write a review of your favorite jewelry related tool, product or book. See Submission Specifics below for what to include with your submission.
The following positions are for "Support Staff Positions". These individuals will act as core support staff for our reporters. They may also serve as reporters. These are volunteer positions as are all Craft Critique "jobs". You will not be financially compensated for your participation but you may receive free products to review.
Website Coordinator: This individual must have basic website programing skills; enough skill to add links, graphics and changes to the website on a regular basis and create said graphics. This individual will update the website on a regular basis in coordination with other support staff. This will include a complete redesign of the blog and possibly assist with a switch to a new blog host. Graphic design, Web-design, Digi-scrapping and other craft experience a plus. We would love to offer this position to an individual who owns his/her own business in blog support, website or graphic design who could benefit from exchanging their services for promotional links from Craft Critique. We would also hope that this individual would also be our digi-scrap reporter... but we are exploring all possibilities. Requested Essay Submission: Please write a short detail on the unique skills you bring to this position and how you might be able to improve or enhance the Craft Critique Blog.
Assistant Vendor Coordinator: assist the existing Vendor coordinator in contacting possible vendors about product reviews. Knowledge of the papercrafting/scrapbooking market and sales or marketing experience a plus. Requested Essay Submission: write a short detail on your skill set specific to this position and possible reviews you'd like to see featured in future posts. Tell us how you would approach possible vendors about having their products reviewed on Craft Critique.
Submission Specifics for all entries:
Email your submission to sarah@craftcritique.com before 2/29/08. New reporters will be notified by 3/15/08.
Your article, projects and photos need not have been created especially for this submission/call. Feel free to submit previously published work for our review, as long as we are free to use it. Your essay/article and photos may be published in a future post on Craft Critique. By submitting to this call you grant Craft Critique the limited use of your essay/article and photos for posting to our blog. You will retain ownership of your article, projects and photos.
If you are applying for multiple positions you may do so in one email. Please include an additional essay for each position you are applying for.
Please include the following personal details with your submission. Feel free to copy and paste the following section directly into your email. Forward all questions to sarah@craftcritique.com
Position or positions you are applying for:
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Blogs:
Forums and online communities you frequent:
Primary Craft Skills (skills you have expertise in):
Secondary Craft Skills (skills you have some experience with, but perhaps not expertise):
Professional Craft Companies Associated with; list those craft related companies you may own, work for, be on a design team with, or be otherwise professionally associated with. Please include basic details about the nature of those relationships.
Why would you like to be a reporter for Craft Critique? Let us know briefly why you'd like to be a part of our team.
Anything else we need to know? Feel free to let us know anything else that would help us get to know you better!
Information to include with your submission article: Be sure to include the name of the product/tool/book and where it was purchased, the price you paid (US or Canadian) and recommended retailers (if any) for purchase. List and describe product pros and cons and how the reviewed product compares to other similar products you have tried. Include a photo of the product (it's ok to use photos found online at manufacturer or retailer websites, just list where the product photo is from if you did not take it yourself). At least one photo of a project completed with the product is a must.
Please include your photos as .jpg attachments. Within the article, list where the photos should appear by name. Please include no more than three photos with your submission.
November 9, 2007
We Have a Winner!
- Via random number generator...
- The winner of the Kodak Easyshare 5300 is...
Trace Geworsky!
Go to her Blog and congratulate her! Looks like she's a scrapbooker, a great photographer... and she is taking a Photoshop class! So her new printer should be put to good use! She also had a great idea to share!
Congrats Trace!
Please enter me in this fabulous contest.
Here is a great idea of what you can do with the printer. Print 3 identical pictures onto a transparency, then put a different colored piece of cardstock behind each picture, you can use this either on a layout, a canvas or in frames, and you will have an Andy Warhol type of look.
I no longer have a printer so this would be awesome. I run a daycare from my home, and take a lot of pictures of the kiddies, but it's inconvenient to go out to get them developed.
September 11, 2007
Please Pardon This Interuption...
Just a brief announcement to let all our faithful readers know that one of our Senior Staff Reporters, Amy Westerman, is stepping down from our team. Amy has been with us since the inception of Craft Critique... we are sad to see her go, but understand when greater opportunities call!We are so thankful for all the wonderful reporting Amy has done for us here at Craft Critique. We hope you will continue to follow her creative endeavors at her Blog Heartfelt Greetings.
Thank you Amy for all your hard work!
August 19, 2007
Jen del Muro in The House
Reported By: Jen del Muro
Hello fellow crafters! My name is Jen del Muro and I can't even express to you how excited I am to be a part of Craft Critique! When I got the email telling me that I had been chosen as a Staff Reporter, all I could say was "How cool is this!?!?"
About 3 years ago a neighbor and friend introduced me to the Stampin' Up line of products. I know, and you know that it doesn't take much to get hooked on this stuff. Since that time, I have become a Stampin' Up demonstrator and my love for stamping has grown. While I love all things SU!, there is so much more out there and I am glad that over the past couple years I have explored a lot of other stamping and paper crafting lines of product. While I am a stamper at heart, I enjoy many other types of crafting. At one point in my career, I owned my own soap and bath products company. I also enjoy scrapbooking, although I think my scrapping design abilities could use a little kick in the rear. I am starting to get into digi-srapping and enjoy it immensely. Altered art is another favorite of mine. I have a couple cabinets full of alterables that I can't seem to stop collecting...and hoarding.
As for my work in design, it was with great pride to have served as part of the Dirty Dozen Design Team at Splitcoast from October 2006 through April 2007. Today I am part of the My Favorite Things and Verve Visual Design Teams. I have also been published in Paper Crafts magazine, and look forward to my work in other publications in the (near) future.
When I am not in my studio, you will find me enjoying time with my husband and daughter. We reside in North Texas, by way of San Diego, along with our 2 (less than intelligent) dogs and a very sly black cat.
Finally, I want to thank everyone at Craft Critique for having me here. I look forward to all the craftiness the future holds.
Hello fellow crafters! My name is Jen del Muro and I can't even express to you how excited I am to be a part of Craft Critique! When I got the email telling me that I had been chosen as a Staff Reporter, all I could say was "How cool is this!?!?"About 3 years ago a neighbor and friend introduced me to the Stampin' Up line of products. I know, and you know that it doesn't take much to get hooked on this stuff. Since that time, I have become a Stampin' Up demonstrator and my love for stamping has grown. While I love all things SU!, there is so much more out there and I am glad that over the past couple years I have explored a lot of other stamping and paper crafting lines of product. While I am a stamper at heart, I enjoy many other types of crafting. At one point in my career, I owned my own soap and bath products company. I also enjoy scrapbooking, although I think my scrapping design abilities could use a little kick in the rear. I am starting to get into digi-srapping and enjoy it immensely. Altered art is another favorite of mine. I have a couple cabinets full of alterables that I can't seem to stop collecting...and hoarding.
As for my work in design, it was with great pride to have served as part of the Dirty Dozen Design Team at Splitcoast from October 2006 through April 2007. Today I am part of the My Favorite Things and Verve Visual Design Teams. I have also been published in Paper Crafts magazine, and look forward to my work in other publications in the (near) future.
When I am not in my studio, you will find me enjoying time with my husband and daughter. We reside in North Texas, by way of San Diego, along with our 2 (less than intelligent) dogs and a very sly black cat.
Finally, I want to thank everyone at Craft Critique for having me here. I look forward to all the craftiness the future holds.
Heidi's Introduction
Reported by Heidi Kingery
Hey! I'm Heidi, also known as SweetHeidiJo (Splitcoast), Joey (my family), and I'm sure many other much more colorful names from those who might not care for me, but let's just stick with Heidi or Heidi Jo! I'm 24 but somtimes feel like I'm 60 and act like I'm 16!
Hey! I'm Heidi, also known as SweetHeidiJo (Splitcoast), Joey (my family), and I'm sure many other much more colorful names from those who might not care for me, but let's just stick with Heidi or Heidi Jo! I'm 24 but somtimes feel like I'm 60 and act like I'm 16!I started stamping about 5 years ago when I went to a SU party telling my hubby that I was just going to socialize (I swear that was my intention!) and ended up ordering my first two sets. We all know this story! From then on I was hooked! Since then I have found so many other companies that feed my addiction and I love how every company has something different and unique to offer!
I have always been into crafts ever since I was a little girl. I remember when my mother and I decopauged a plastic school like serving tray with all different flowers we had cut from magazines together. I have painted, sewed, cross stitched, made chokers (yes, they were popular at one point!), paper flowers, flower pens, so many other things that I can't even recall right now, and I have even painted rocks. I was a very creative kid! Now-a-days I enjoy making cards and photography. I dabble in a few things here and there but nothing give me as much of a thrill as those!
In my regluar life (by regular, I mean the every day sometimes mundane but very rewarding!) I am a SAHM to 3 beautiful kids that I am proud to call mine! Wife to my soul mate (unless Chris Daughtry makes me an offer I can't refuse! Teasing!), sister to 6 siblings, and daughter to the most wonderful mom imagineable! I am a child of God and see the blessings of his love every day! I also am a movie fanatic as well as a Grey's Anatomy, House, and Big Brother slave!
I feel so fortunate to be able to work with all of these gals and to share my knowledge with you guys! Hope I can make you proud!
Heather Strenzwilk Here!
Reported By: Heather Strenzwilk
Greetings everyone! My name is Heather Strenzwilk and I am thrilled to have been selected as a reporter for Craft Critique. I'm very excited about writing about paper arts and my parents will be thrilled that I'm finally using my journalism degree! I love to test new products and techniques and find unique ways to use them.
I have been happily married to my husband for 13 years and we have a daughter who keeps us on our toes! I used to joke that I wanted to try living somewhere else and my husband's career has obliged us and we have called Nevada, Tennessee and will soon call Virginia home! Since our daughter started school, I have worked part time. We also collect Happy Hollister books and moose stuff and have homemade pizza competitions.
I started stamping about 12 years ago when a friend gave me a thermal embossed Valentine's Day card. From there, I attended local stamp store demos and joined some swaps online. When my daughter was an infant, I started teaching stamping classes online and designing samples for stamp companies. Today, I'm a Splitcoast (alcesalces) and blog reading addict when I'm not making stuff!
Writing for Craft Critique is the beginning of a new adventure. I'm very happy to be part of such a great team!
Greetings everyone! My name is Heather Strenzwilk and I am thrilled to have been selected as a reporter for Craft Critique. I'm very excited about writing about paper arts and my parents will be thrilled that I'm finally using my journalism degree! I love to test new products and techniques and find unique ways to use them.I have been happily married to my husband for 13 years and we have a daughter who keeps us on our toes! I used to joke that I wanted to try living somewhere else and my husband's career has obliged us and we have called Nevada, Tennessee and will soon call Virginia home! Since our daughter started school, I have worked part time. We also collect Happy Hollister books and moose stuff and have homemade pizza competitions.
I started stamping about 12 years ago when a friend gave me a thermal embossed Valentine's Day card. From there, I attended local stamp store demos and joined some swaps online. When my daughter was an infant, I started teaching stamping classes online and designing samples for stamp companies. Today, I'm a Splitcoast (alcesalces) and blog reading addict when I'm not making stuff!
Writing for Craft Critique is the beginning of a new adventure. I'm very happy to be part of such a great team!
Hi! My Name is Lexi...
Reported by: Lexi Daly
Hi! My name is Lexi Daly and I'm a craft addict!
I live in New Orleans, Louisiana with my husband and two daughters, ages 6 and 8. Drawing, coloring and painting were always activities of choice during my childhood and over the years since, I've expressed myself creatively in a variety of other ways, too. I created scrapbooks before they were archival; I continued to draw; and I painted my fair share of t-shirts and lap boards in college, and more recently, furniture, burpee cloths and hand towels. I'm also re-learning how to sew as my kids need costumes for this or that and I love to make fun jewelry.
My main craft addiction is stamping and paper arts. My cousin introduced me to stamping about eight years ago just before the birth of my first daughter, whose birth announcement was my first stamped project. I'd already been creating stationery and invitations for friends and friends of friends, so it was a perfect new craft for me and presented so many new design possibilities. My computer has always been one my favorite tools for creating and I enjoy combining printed elements with stamped or paper crafted touches. It also follows that i dabble in digital scrapping. I can see so many possibilities there!
In addition to paper crafting, I love throwing parties and all the details that make a party perfect. Over the last 10 years, my invitation and stationery business has evolved into "Confetti: paper arts & party smarts!" Invitations and stationery are still my main focus, but i also bake and design theme cakes and cupcakes and help brainstorm ideas and create perfect party details. This led me to start my blog Confetti in order to have an online portfolio for my customers, which connected me to this wonderful world of online paper crafters. I'm so excited to be a part of Craft Critique and can't wait to share my crafting opinions and reviews!
Hi! My name is Lexi Daly and I'm a craft addict!I live in New Orleans, Louisiana with my husband and two daughters, ages 6 and 8. Drawing, coloring and painting were always activities of choice during my childhood and over the years since, I've expressed myself creatively in a variety of other ways, too. I created scrapbooks before they were archival; I continued to draw; and I painted my fair share of t-shirts and lap boards in college, and more recently, furniture, burpee cloths and hand towels. I'm also re-learning how to sew as my kids need costumes for this or that and I love to make fun jewelry.
My main craft addiction is stamping and paper arts. My cousin introduced me to stamping about eight years ago just before the birth of my first daughter, whose birth announcement was my first stamped project. I'd already been creating stationery and invitations for friends and friends of friends, so it was a perfect new craft for me and presented so many new design possibilities. My computer has always been one my favorite tools for creating and I enjoy combining printed elements with stamped or paper crafted touches. It also follows that i dabble in digital scrapping. I can see so many possibilities there!
In addition to paper crafting, I love throwing parties and all the details that make a party perfect. Over the last 10 years, my invitation and stationery business has evolved into "Confetti: paper arts & party smarts!" Invitations and stationery are still my main focus, but i also bake and design theme cakes and cupcakes and help brainstorm ideas and create perfect party details. This led me to start my blog Confetti in order to have an online portfolio for my customers, which connected me to this wonderful world of online paper crafters. I'm so excited to be a part of Craft Critique and can't wait to share my crafting opinions and reviews!
July 30, 2007
Celebrations Contest Finalists! Vote Now!
Just bumping this to the TOP again! Please vote for your fave before 8/9!
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Celebrations Contest! We asked our readers to send us their projects created to showcase a specific celebration... we had many wonderful submissions... but of course we couldn't include everyone. If your project was not sellected we certainly hope you will participate in future contests and challenges we plan to host!
We hope you find inspiration in the following projects. Vote for your favorite submission by emailing us. Please make the subject of your email "Celebrations Contest". Include the title and number of your favorite submission in the body of your email. Only one vote per email address only please. Multiple votes from the same email will be deleted. Voting will continue until August 9th. Your email address will never be used for any other purpose.
The winner will be receiving a BIG goodie box full of crafty surprises donated by our reporters. They will also be featured in a future post. The winner will be announced on August 18th.
Please click on the images to enlarge/view.
1. Wedding Collection
2. Chipboard Wedding Album
3. Wedding Shower
4. Baby Collection
5. Round Wedding Album in a Box
6. Little Girl Gift Set
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Celebrations Contest! We asked our readers to send us their projects created to showcase a specific celebration... we had many wonderful submissions... but of course we couldn't include everyone. If your project was not sellected we certainly hope you will participate in future contests and challenges we plan to host!
We hope you find inspiration in the following projects. Vote for your favorite submission by emailing us. Please make the subject of your email "Celebrations Contest". Include the title and number of your favorite submission in the body of your email. Only one vote per email address only please. Multiple votes from the same email will be deleted. Voting will continue until August 9th. Your email address will never be used for any other purpose.
The winner will be receiving a BIG goodie box full of crafty surprises donated by our reporters. They will also be featured in a future post. The winner will be announced on August 18th.
Please click on the images to enlarge/view.
1. Wedding Collection
2. Chipboard Wedding Album
3. Wedding Shower
4. Baby Collection
5. Round Wedding Album in a Box
6. Little Girl Gift Set
July 7, 2007
Don't forget the Contest!
We are still accepting submissions for our latest CONTEST! We want to know how you craft your CELEBRATIONS! Be it weddings, Birthdays, Christmas, or Independence day... ANY holiday or occasion will fit the bill! We want to see three samples for each holiday of hand crafted items like invitations, party favors, thank you cards, table decorations, or gifts. Please provide no more that five samples.
Email us photos of your samples before July 14th. Please include your name, address, and any description you feel is necessary. Finalists will be sellected and posted on 7/18. Our readers will then vote to select a winner! The winner will receive a HUGE and SUPER FUN box full of crafty goodies donated by our reporters. We can't show you a picture because we just can't stop adding stuff to the box!
Everyone is welcome to participate. Previously published or posted items are acceptable for submission. Please tell your friends!
Happy Crafting!
EDITED TO ADD 6/25/07: Please note; you must Email us your entries using the link above to be eligible for the contest. Please send us only 3-5 pictures/items. Items that are sent as blog links or posted comments will not be accepted as entries. Please feel free to email us any questions you might have. Thanks!
Email us photos of your samples before July 14th. Please include your name, address, and any description you feel is necessary. Finalists will be sellected and posted on 7/18. Our readers will then vote to select a winner! The winner will receive a HUGE and SUPER FUN box full of crafty goodies donated by our reporters. We can't show you a picture because we just can't stop adding stuff to the box!
Everyone is welcome to participate. Previously published or posted items are acceptable for submission. Please tell your friends!
Happy Crafting!
EDITED TO ADD 6/25/07: Please note; you must Email us your entries using the link above to be eligible for the contest. Please send us only 3-5 pictures/items. Items that are sent as blog links or posted comments will not be accepted as entries. Please feel free to email us any questions you might have. Thanks!
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