...supporting artists and crafters worldwide
What is The Handmade Movement?
"The handmade movement" is the collective energy and creativity of Artists and Crafters who work with their hands. This site's purpose is to support sellers and buyers of handmade items- right now the main focus being through the "Sneak Attack". Although unaffiliated with Etsy, we focus in particular on shops of handmade items from Etsy.com
Sneak Attack Schedule:
Date |
Time (EDT) |
Sponsor |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Th | Mar 11 |
7:00pm |
|
| M | Mar 15 |
7:00pm |
|
| Th | Mar 18 |
7:00pm |
|
| M | Mar 22 |
7:00pm |
The Sneak Attacks
What is a Sneak Attack?
It's a way to support independant artisans who are trying to sell their wares online. Three days a week at an appointed time, an Etsy* shop with few or no sales is announced on this site. As many people as possible then buy items from that shop, resulting in a frenzy of surprise business to the unsuspecting shop! (*Etsy is an online marketplace where individuals can set up shops to sell their goods) Want to join in? I bet you do! Read on...
To the right is the current Sneak Attack schedule. To participate, show up on this site at or soon after the time of the next attack and you'll see the chosen shop name in the box above. Then go to that shop and purchase an item, making sure to include the words "Sneak Attack" in the "message to seller". It's also fun to tune into the current thread on Etsy to talk about it with other "attackers".
Who's behind all this?
Actually, a lot of people are! The success of this site and the Sneak Attack is are thanks to a lot of different people who are happy to help make someone's day! Michael Phipps originated the Sneak Attack idea. He ties everything together and maintains the site.
Michael is an artist by profession. As part of that he sells artistic t-shirts on his site ScatterbrainTees.com and his Etsy shop PhippsArt. His art blog can be found at http://michaelphipps.blogspot.com/. See his illustration work at http://www.michaelphipps.net.
As of August 2009, advertising is handled by Project Wonderful. Look on the left sidebar and you’ll see information beneath the advertisements about how to include your ad.
Questions? Confused? Contact ads [at] michaelphipps.net for more info.
Sneak Attack FAQ:
How do I participate?
No need to join any group or sign up (although you can join the mailing list for reminder emails). All you have to do is buy at least one item from the shop that is revealed at the time of the scheduled Attack. It doesn’t have to be immediately at the appointed hour, either. The Attack is usually ‘live’ for about 12 hours.
How else can I help without making a purchase?
Maybe you’re low on funds or the specific shop doesn’t speak to you. You can still help out by visiting and joining in on the Attack-specific thread in the Etsy forums. This helps spread the word by keeping the thread at the top of its section. The link to the thread is usually posted on the main page of this site in the main box near the top.
How are shops chosen for the Sneak Attacks?
The best way to NOT get chosen is to nominate oneself- please don’t! Selected volunteers (”sponsors”) scour Etsy.com for shops that meet certain criteria. (Sponsor information is further down on this page.)
Can I nominate someone even if I don’t actually become a sponsor?
Yes, although the sponsors ultimately choose the shops. But a list is kept of possible shops which is sometimes presented to sponsors who need some shop ideas. Send shop ideas to sponsor [at] michaelphipps.net
The Sneak Attacks were developed as a way to encourage people in their art or craft, and to surprise and encourage them with multiple sales. It’s a very uniqe concept and we are trying to keep our focus in line with the orginal idea. Helping people that are down on their luck is a great cause- even more important than what we’re doing- so we encourage people to seek organizations that help in this regard or to creatively find their own way to help.
Having said that, we do at times support various charitable organizations by occasionally choosing shops that donate 100% of their profit to a charity.
Additionally, although some people have made a significant amount of sales through being Sneak Attacked, generally they don’t make a lot of money off of it but rather get a boost of encouragement. On it’s own, being Sneak Attacked will not start a continuing stream of sales- that’s up to the shop owner as much as they will continue to promote and update their store.
What are the criteria for shops to be chosen for the sneak attacks?
-They have zero or only a few sales- usually 4 or less. (Exception: Shops who donate 100% of their profits to a charity may be considered even if they have several sales.)
-Their shop has been updated in the past week or two.
-They do not have a second (or third) more successful shop.
-They have at least a few items under $10 so more people can participate (there may be some exceptions to this at some point)
-Preferrably a shop will have 20+ items, but we will consider any with at least 12. If less, we might consider doing two shops at once that both have a small amount of items.
-They appear to have good quality products.
-They are at least two weeks old, preferably more.
-If possible, they have positive feedback established through purchases or selling a few items.
-The shop must not be in conflict with any Etsy policies, applicable laws, etc. For instance, shops supplying food must clearly state they produce their product in an accredited kitchen.
-The shop is not affiliated or connected to the sponsor.
-Sponsors choose the shops and approve them with VintageEmbellishment.
-The shop should not contain offensive items. We realize this is subjective thing and what one considers offensive, another will not, but we will make the judgment call based on what we feel is right.
-We reserves the right to make exceptions to the above rules, but this will not normally happen and will only be in special cases (e.g. needing to change the shop at the last minute).
Please volunteer by contacting VintageEmbellishment.etsy.com to find out more information about sponsoring. You will need an Etsy account to send her a message as well as to sponsor.
Please only volunteer out of the kindness of your heart and if you think it would be fun. I’ve caught people trying to volunteer so they can sponsor friends’ shops- but I’ve found out and will likely figure it out in the future, too!
What if I buy from a shop during a Sneak Attack and I have a problem with the seller?
Well, it hasn’t happened yet! So far all reported experiences have been positive and no one has lost any money by purchasing an item during a Sneak Attack. If it does ever happen, TheHandmadeMovement.com is not responsible for the misdeeds of Etsy shop owners. Please bring up any issues via Etsy’s existing reporting systems.
How and why sign up?
Send an email to stockannettesneakattacks [at] gmail [dot] com with the title “Sign me up” to be put on the Sneak Attack mailing list. You’ll be contacted a few hours before each Sneak Attack with a friendly reminder. Make sure to also put the email address in your contacts so the emails don’t get marked as spam
Weekly Giveaway
March 5th – March 18th: Six Ponytail Holders, from Jen, owner of Girls Like Trucks on Etsy.
You can win your choice of any six ponytail holders from the Girls Like Trucks online store. Here is a sample of some ponytail holders currently available. To see more, visit Girls Like Trucks.
To enter, send an email entitled “I want to win this!” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces). If you have an Etsy shop, include it in the email so you’ll get some free exposure for it if you win! The winner will be announced on Thursday March 4th.
Would you like to donate something for a future giveaway? Send an email with the subject “I’d like to donate” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces).
Feb 19th – March 4th Peace Bracelet, from Jacqueline, owner of http://wearpunctuation.etsy.com.
Congratulations to our winner: Jessica Cheek owner of http://Jwhiz.etsy.com.
Peace sign on delicate thin strands of waxed linen. Lobster clasp. Length- 7 1/2 inches
I can make this bracelet longer or shorter if you’d like, just convo me!
To enter, send an email entitled “I want to win this!” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces). If you have an Etsy shop, include it in the email so you’ll get some free exposure for it if you win! The winner will be announced on Thursday March 4th.
Would you like to donate something for a future giveaway? Send an email with the subject “I’d like to donate” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces).
Feb 4th – Feb 18th Chrysanthemum Broach from http://wintergarden.etsy.com
Congratulations to our winner: Brenda Bergin owner of http://irelandseye.etsy.com, http://sunflowertouch.etsy.com and http://vintageloveheart.etsy.com.
This glowing Chrysanthemum Broach is crafted in 100% virgin Peruvian wool. It features a bright red flower atop a deep purple leaf for those who crave brilliant color. Iridescent red glass seed beads are used to decorate the center of the flower. An original Wintergarden design!
To enter, send an email entitled “I want to win this!” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces). If you have an Etsy shop, include it in the email so you’ll get some free exposure for it if you win!
Would you like to donate something for a future giveaway? Send an email with the subject “I’d like to donate” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces).
Jan 21st – Feb 4th Heart Pendant from http://customadornments.etsy.com
Congratulations to our winner: Stacie Wyatt owner of http://lustercanyon.etsy.com.
This heart shaped pendant is one of a kind and made from Brass wire with a Cubic Zirconia “Ruby” at the center. Completely hand formed and only 1 3/4″ tall by 1 1/2″ at the widest. [A chain is not included with the pendant, but is shown in the two pictures as an example of how it hangs.]
To enter, send an email entitled “I want to win this!” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces). If you have an Etsy shop, include it in the email so you’ll get some free exposure for it if you win!
Would you like to donate something for a future giveaway? Send an email with the subject “I’d like to donate” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces).
Jan 7th – Jan 21st Headband and Two Hair Flowers from http://anglily.etsy.com
Congratulations to our winner: Becky Gardner of http://labeq.etsy.com.
(See below the item description for how to enter.)
This custom made eclectic headband is 30” long and 2” wide at the widest point. It is made from designer fabrics with lightweight interfacing sewn inside to help the headband keep its shape. One side is brown with bright colored flowers and the other side is a pink with purple print. The tapered sides ensure a perfect fit for everyone. It is designed to be tied at the back of your head and is reversible so you get 2 designer looks in 1. The raw edges are finished with a tight zig zag stitch-the perfectly imperfect unique touch. No 2 headbands are the same. This headband is great for all girls and moms alike. What a perfect way to add a stylish touch to your day!
Pink Flower:
This is a fun 3 inch pink and yellow sparkle hair flower. It comes attached to a ribbon lined alligator clip, with a matching pink brad in the center. The ribbon has been heat seared to prevent fraying. I have applied glitter by hand for just a touch of sparkle. This flower will make a fun addition to wardrobe of anyone young or young at heart.
All my flowers can be worn individually as clips, attached to any of my headbands or even worn on an elastic ponytail holder. They are great for moms or little girls.
Red and White Flower:
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This is a fun 3 inch red and white sparkle hair flower. It comes attached to a ribbon lined alligator clip, with a pewter brad in the center. The ribbon has been heat seared to prevent fraying. I have applied glitter by hand for just a touch of sparkle. This flower will make a fun addition to the fall or autumn wardrobe of anyone young or young at heart.
All my flowers can be worn individually as clips, attached to any of my headbands or even worn on an elastic ponytail holder. They are great for moms or little girls.
Everything is better with sparkles!
To enter, send an email entitled “I want to win this!” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces). If you have an Etsy shop, include it in the email so you’ll get some free exposure for it if you win!
Would you like to donate something for a future giveaway? Send an email with the subject “I’d like to donate” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces).
Dec 21st – Jan. 7th A Little Birdy Told Me Ring from http://candlewhiz.etsy.com
Congratulations to our winner: Natalie Topie of http://BusyBoneyHands.etsy.com.
About this giveaway: “Super cute and very unique, these adorable little birds come in two colors purple, and white with brown. They are made from wood, and are attached to a sterling silver plated ring, adjustable to fit any size. Even though this is made of wood and will last through everyday wear and tear I don’t know what would happen if you get it wet so I suggest that you do not!
Makes a great gift or a whimsical way to incorporate birds into your wedding by giving these to your bridesmaids.”
Dec 3rd – Dec 21st Treasure Box With Jet Black and Snowy White Embellishments from JustForTheShellOfIt
We have a winner! Congratulations to Carol of CarolBroadleyPottery.
Here’s JustForTheShellOfIt’s description of this giveaway item:
“This trinket box was so fun to make because I have all of these black and white embellishments to choose from and I really had fun picking and choosing which would compliment or contrast each other! My final selections are really quite simple and I love the end result!
The paint is acrylic, white on the box, inside and out and black on the lid, inside and out. It is then sprayed with an acrylic sealer to give it a little shine and to protect the finish. The box has black glass bead feet. The embellishments are actually shown in the pictures as well as I can describe them…black and white maribou feathers, assorted black and white patterned ribbons and a white flower with a black center. The silvertone butterfly finding on the front has a ‘vintage’ look to it.
This trinket box measures 6.25″ x 3.5″ x 7″ to the top of the feathers.”
Nov 19 – Dec 3rd: Hand-Knit wire bracelet, with Multi-Colored Glass Beads PrettyKnittyJewelry.etsy.com
Congratulations to our winner: Stockannette
“Hand-knit, 28-gauge wire forms the base for this stunning-yet-simple bracelet! Silver colored beading wire is knit to a length of approx. 7.5″ before the toggle clasp is attached. The lenth of the finished bracelet is approx. 8.25″ open (8″ with clasp closed).
Multi-colored glass beads are added in during the knitting to make each bracelet truly one of a kind. It is simple enough to wear every day, yet dressy enough for an evening out.”
Nov 12 – Nov 19: Teal and Green Jar & Photograph from AccidentalTourist.etsy.com
Congratulations to David of http://www.etsy.com/shop/glassdoormosaics, winner of this contest!
Here’s what AccidentalTourist has to say about their generous giveaway:
“This decorative glass jar has been repurposed by creating a mosaic of green and teal glass on the lid and an intricate vine of seed beads and copper wire to the jar. At approximately 2″ high and 2.5 ” in diameter, this whimsical jar is perfect for holding small treasures and trinkets – a one of a kind gift!
I would also like to include a photo of the winner’s choice from my Etsy shop.”
Nov 5 – Nov 12: Sterling Silver Mystical Seahorse Earrings from Keywestdesigning
Congratulations to our winner, Kathlean!
“Sterling Silver Mystical Seahorse Earrings with Labradorite Gemstone
In old seafarers lore, white crested waves thrashing and frothing with foam were said to be really seahorses riding on the surface for all to see, perchance carrying Poseidon’s forces or secret treasures from the depths of the unknown.
I Hand-formed 16 gauge German Sterling Silver wire for the body of the seahorse. Once formed, I hammered, burnished-tumbled and polished them. I wire wrapped the body of the seahorse and added a 6mm Labradorite gemstone. Dimensions: 2.5 inches from top of ear wire to bottom of seahorse. The earwires are also handmade from German sterling wire.
Labradorite is a power stone, allowing you to see through illusions and determine the actual form of your dreams and goals. It is excellent for strengthening intuitions.”
Oct 29 – Nov 5: $25 Faerie Funtificate From Charmimsy
Congratulations to our winner! (anonymous)
“This Faerie Funtificate gives the winner of this Sneak Team giveaway $25 worth of free merchandise of their choosing from Charmimsy on Etsy. Charmimsy is a faerie small cottage craft supply of odds and ends. We have delightful mimsy for you to create with: buttons, beads, fabric, and charms are just waiting for your creative muse. You are sure to find something, especially at the faerie small price of free 
”
Oct 22 – Oct 29: 2 Tile Mini Magnets From PozArtShop
Congratulations to http://arjunajewelry.etsy.com, winner of this week’s giveaway!
From PozArtShop: “TIMI or Tile Mini Magnet is the “Hot” new trend that you will absolutely love and want to have. It’s great for any type of occasion. Soon everyone will be raving the mini artwork in your Home or Office!
The sise of the tiles is 2×2, Original Artwork Made by Yours Truly 
, Gloss Varnish and
Magnet in the back”
(See below the pictures about how to enter.)
Oct 15 – Oct 22: Cloth Doll From Alonia Creations
Congratulations to Kay of VerveInteriors.etsy.com, winner of this giveaway!
Alonia Creations is giving away a cute, child friendly cloth doll. She is roughly 13 x 13 with arms open. The winner can choose one doll with any eye or hair color.
Oct 8 – Oct 15: Heart-Shaped Suncatcher from CatchaStarCreations.etsy.com
Congratulations to egater.etsy.com, winner of this giveaway!
“October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! This lovely heart shaped suncatcher will definitely get you to Think Pink! Inspired by my Mom, who is a breast cancer survivor, as well as all those other Moms, Sisters, Wives, Grandmothers, Aunts, etc out there who have fought breast cancer. This little gem will bring sparkle and fun to any window, mirror, wall or room! Makes a perfect gift for someone you know or simply something to brighten YOUR day! Measures approx. 10″ from top to bottom and will come with a suction cup for easy window hanging.”
Oct 1 – Oct 8: Felted Wool Bowl from HandmadeBySandi.etsy.com
Congratulations to StockAnnette for winning this felted wool bowl from HandmadeBySandi.etsy.com
“Felted Wool Bowl – Soft and Tweedy
A perfect little bowl to hold things on your desk, your dresser, and coffee table. And it won’t scratch your furniture!
Kids can use this adorable bowl too – for their little trinkets and they won’t break it!
This little bowl measures 5 inches in diameter, 2 1/2? high, and the opening is 3 1/2? wide.”
Sep 24 – Oct 1: Peacock Compact Mirror from ByMiMi.etsy.com
Congratulations to Laura Staudacher of AccidentalTourist who won this Peacock Compact Mirror from ByMiMi.etsy.com!
Sep. 17-24: HUGE One Year Anniversay Giveaway!!!
On the 24th of September we are celebrating our one year anniversary and having FOUR drawings, including
a GRAND PRIZE of over 25 items (worth over $300)!
Here’s how to enter, then see below to read about the prizes:
(Sep 24th: This contest is closed. Scroll up to today’s date to see the current contest.)
Four total winners will be chosen at random throughout the day on Sep. 24th, the grand prize being announced in our forum thread at 6:00pm EDT (there will be a link given on the main page here on that day).
Here are the prizes:
Grand Prize
25+ items worth over $300!!!
From these sellers and more:
CurtisCollectables — Knit coin purse/fabric coasters
Stockannette — Neck Warmer
Justjanesthings — Decorated egg /pin cushion/collage
PaintedMemoriesbyRos — 12 Cards / gift certificate
doodlebeacards — 8 Cards
laruefashions — Aluminum bracelet
JustForTheShellOfit — Necklace
TinkersShop — Felted coin purse/vintage seed labels/vintage bakelite heart
VintageEmbellishment –Tablecloth / felted flower pin
goodgosh — Framed aceo / 3 cards
countrysoapbymarlen — Cinammon apple soap
TwoHeartsDesigns — Earrings
TwoHeartsPendants — Scrabble tile pendant
pandacub –2 pair hair pins
SillyStringsNThings –Magnolia glass paperweight
busybeading — 4 beaded bracelets / 2 sets earrings
Runswithscissors4 –Dangling doodad necklace
LaBeq — Wood keychain / pen combo
Engelfelt –Felted soap
peppercorns2 — 2 handpainted gift bags
kittredgecandles — Lemon poppyseed candle
carolbroadleypottery — Tiny bowl and maple leaf
Three Other Drawings throughout the day:
Drawing #1: Neclace and Bracelet from BusyBeading & RunsWithScissors4
The first giveaway of the day will be this amazing jewelry duo.
This gorgeous bracelet is being donated by BusyBeading, and is described as “Swarvoski crystals in olivine and vintage rose colors with olivine squaredelles and floral clasp”.
The beautiful companion piece is a necklace donated by RunsWithScissors4, a “Dangling doodad made from paper with black oxidized dangle with antiqued copper chain”.
Drawing #2: Chocolate Covered Caramel Jewelry Pouch by JewelrybyAllisonB
A luscious chocolate colored cotton fabric is paired with a gorgeous caramel colored satin that makes you just want to pick up the jewelry pouch and eat it!! This medium size jewelry pouch is the perfect travel companion for your jewelry. There are 6 pockets within the pouch that allows you to put your earrings and smaller pieces. The larger area in the middle is great for your necklaces. This is also a great bag for a night out to carry your money, makeup, etc. Sewing accessories also fit perfectly for projects when traveling or on the go. The bag is completely hand washable and air dryable.
Drawing #3: LED Lamp Base by fromMarz and Ornate Original Drawing by verveinteriors
James (fromMarz.etsy.com) created this eco-friendly rustic LED lamp base from fencewood he salvaged after Hurricane Ike hit the Houston area. This piece can also be used as a pencil cup, since the LED device will be included but not attached. The wood is finished only with silicone-free lemon oil to condition but not cover it.
Kay (verveinteriors.etsy.com), who also just happens to be James’ wife, created this 5″ x 5″ original drawing, titled “Flora,” using matboard and pen ink to create a nature inspired scene with mehndi (traditional Indian henna art) strokes. The back will be signed and sealed with a kiss. Now, now- everyone gets an equal chance- stop fighting over it!
Would you like to donate something for a future giveaway? Send an email with the subject “I’d like to donate” to handmadegiveaway [!at] gmail .com (make sure to change the [!at] to an @ sign and remove the spaces).
Sep. 10-17: Custom Designed Stickers from PaintedMemoriesbyRos
Congratulations to Sandy of sandyvern.etsy.com who won the custom designed stickers from PaintedMemoriesbyRos!
Sep. 4 – 10: Rustic Planter & ACEO with stand from Verveinteriors and fromMarz
Congratulations to Michelle of ircrafty.etsy.com who won the rustic planter from fromMarz.etsy.com and the ACEO with stand from verveinteriors!
Aug 28 – Sep 10: “Buy Handmade” shirt from Phippsart
Congratulations to April of humankindness.etsy.com who won the “Buy Handmade” shirt from Phippsart!
