Tip for Artists: Respect Your Art

A couple of words of wisdom to all artists out there – things I learned the hard way:

1) USE TOP-NOTCH MATERIALS.  When I was starting out, including when I was studying Fine Arts in university, I used the cheapest materials I could find.  In fact, in art classes I was actually told to use large sheets of newsprint for my assignments.

Now, this isn’t a bad idea in a way, especially if you are in the early stages and aren’t turning out a lot of work that you feel is good enough to keep.  If you’re going to wind up filing away (or throwing away) a lot of early attempts at drawing/painting/pastels/whatever, you don’t want to waste a lot of money on materials.

Illustration: drawing on yellowing paper.
New Sprouts

On the other hand, when you get to the point that you are starting to turn out works that are a respectable quality, you will truly regret not using good materials.  Because cheap materials turn yellow or degrade in other ways – along with your work. 

I’m speaking from experience here.  I have a number of drawings I did fairly early in my art career that were really good drawings – but done on cheap paper.  I still have the drawings, but they are no longer good enough to exhibit because the ground has yellowed badly. 

(Note:  for smaller works, there is a work-around:  if it’s small enough to scan into your computer, you can use photo editing software like Corel Paintbrush Pro to correct the discolouring and fading, at least for digital prints.)

So, once you’re really starting to bloom, invest in good materials – and that means archive-quality materials. 

Resource: What Does “Archival” Mean? (Utrecht Art Supplies)

Resource: How Important Is It To Use Archival Materials?  (Jean Pederson)

While you’re at it, be sure you’ve made provision for archival-quality STORAGE of your materials and your finished works as well.

Video: How To Store Your Art And Protect Your Drawings (The Virtual Instructor)

2) PLAN AHEAD.  I have always had a very bad habit of just starting in on a drawing – only to find that the finished work was too close to the edge of the paper to properly mat and frame – or even to finish.  (Another thing that you can work around if the item is small enough to scan into the computer). 

I’ve learned to start my drawings by penciling in a margin around the page – at least 1/2″ in from all edges.  That way, even if I get close to the margins, there’s still enough room for matting and framing.  Even if you’re just doing casual sketches in a sketchbook, you want to be prepared in case you turn out something really stunning!

I’ve also learned to do a quick, very rough, very light pencil sketch of the entire image to begin with.  With close attention to relative distances and proportions, this gets you off to a MUCH better start.  (Note that both of these apply whether you’re working in pencil, pen, oil paint, acrylic paint, or pastel – start with a light rough first.)

In other words, have enough respect for yourself and your art that you EXPECT to turn out works that are good enough to display, to cherish, and even to sell!

Thanks For Supporting Small Businesses

But standing at this milestone of 15 years, to us the real accomplishment is not actually that we’ve been in business for this long. The real accomplishment is much bigger than us, it existed before us and is entirely the reason for our success. This accomplishment being that despite so many pressures and temptations to do otherwise, there is a deep and abiding commitment from all of you to build and appreciate small rural economies.

GUEST POST from Sissiboo Coffee Roaster (First published Jan. 3 2024)

Sissiboo Coffee Roaster in Bear River.

With 2023 coming to a close Jon and I realize we are heading into our 15th year of running Sissiboo Coffee Roaster. By now, it is kind of family folklore how we were warned no one would cross the street from “downtown Bear River” to our spot on the strip, how the only source of heat for years was the teeny tiny roaster we started out on, how we “decided” to have twins a year into starting a business, how we didn’t take a wage for 7 years and all the other things we did to scrape together a living….

But standing at this milestone of 15 years, to us the real accomplishment is not actually that we’ve been in business for this long. The real accomplishment is much bigger than us, it existed before us and is entirely the reason for our success. This accomplishment being that despite so many pressures and temptations to do otherwise, there is a deep and abiding commitment from all of you to build and appreciate small rural economies. Within the simple framework of a space and a product, our business is more than we ever could have imagined, and constantly evolving, thanks to the contributions of all of our customers.

We may have set up a loom and blocked the legs and made sure the sun and the rain are kept in check but it is you, all of you, who are weaving community tapestry: conversations that reflect who we are and what we are doing–from humour to civil disagreement, a chat about the to-do list, a secret shared, an update on the neighbours, a moment of silence, the necessary weather report. Children who play with the blocks and put the books away, he who encourages sunflowers in the window, those who top-up the pay-it-forward cards, the appreciated workers of all kinds, the political and the personal in constant refinement, those who are behind the posters of every imaginable event that decorate the walls and the windows, the singular and entirely unique expressions of art that warm our walls….

And beyond our corner of NS, there are so many other small businesses that collaborate with us who in their own unique ways are spinning community fabrics just as beautiful and necessary as ours.

There is not much that feels simple about these days, including at times the effort and process of building community. But it is a skill we know humans have and should continually work to strengthen. It is an honour to be a part of this region and truly, gratitude is given. Thank you for enabling us to be in business these past 14 years.

Whatever this time of year means to you and yours, we wish you peace and good winter rest. with love, Jon and Erin, Sissiboo Coffee Roaster, Bear River, Nova Scotia

(Jeri’s note:  Thanks to Jon for permission to repost this!  If you’re ever in Bear River or Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, be sure to stop in to Sissiboo Coffee for great coffee and great service!)

KISS: Keep It Simple, Sweetheart!

I recently found an interesting article on website design; it sounded useful, so I decided to download the free PDF…
I had to go through seven separate steps in order to download this PDF file. What it was NOT, was quick and easy.

Photo of fishing boat in bay.

I recently found an interesting article on website design; it sounded useful, so I decided to download the free PDF.

1) I clicked on “Download the PDF” and got a pop-up box asking for my email address.  No problem.

2) I got the email.  It had a link in it to “click here to download the PDF”.  Well, I’d already told them I wanted to download the PDF, but OK, I clicked the link.

3) I got taken to a page with the name of the article and a “Download” button, which looked promising… but immediately a pop-up box obscured the page, asking me to “create a free DropBox account or sign in”. 

4) I have a DropBox account, so I clicked on “Sign In”, and was taken to another pop-up asking for my sign-in info.  I sighed and signed in.

5) I finally got returned to the page with the name of the article, and clicked on “Download”.  I then had to select “Direct Download” or “Download to your DropBox account”. 

6) I picked “Direct Download” and the file downloaded.

7) I then had to sign out of DropBox – and close the original email.

Now, admittedly, this all only took a couple of minutes.  However, I had to go through seven separate steps in order to download this PDF file.

I’m sure this was all to the advantage of the company offering the file – for one thing, they got to harvest my email address (although with a “we hate spam and will not abuse your email address” notification).  What it was NOT, was quick and easy.

When I offer something for free download on my website, there are just two steps:
1) Click on the link to open the resource;
2) Right-click on the resource and select “Save to your computer” (or the equivalent). 
You get to see the resource before you download it, and you don’t have to jump through any hoops to download it.

Simple!

Navigating Home-Based Business Success: A Comprehensive Guide

Happy woman using laptop while working at home.
www.freepik.com

In an era where flexibility and innovation are at a premium, the appeal of home-based businesses is more pronounced than ever. These ventures offer a unique blend of personal freedom and professional growth, making them a compelling choice for aspiring entrepreneurs. This guide illuminates the path to launching and nurturing a successful home-based business, highlighting key strategies and practical steps for those ready to take this rewarding leap.

The Advantages of a Home-Based Business

Embrace Cost Efficiency

One of the foremost advantages of a home-based business is the reduction in overhead costs. Without the financial burden of leasing commercial space, entrepreneurs can invest more in business development and growth. This approach not only conserves resources but also accelerates the journey towards profitability. Moreover, this financial freedom allows for greater experimentation and innovation, paving the way for unique business solutions and strategies.

Explore Diverse Business Opportunities

The digital revolution has opened doors to an array of business models that can be operated from home. Whether it’s an online store, a consulting service, or a creative venture, the possibilities are virtually limitless. This diversity allows entrepreneurs to align their business with personal passions and skills, leading to more fulfilling and successful ventures.

(Resource: “72 home based business ideas you can start today“, Rebecca Tomasis)

Connect with a Global Audience

Operating a business from home no longer limits your reach to local markets. The internet enables connections with customers worldwide, offering the potential to tap into diverse markets. This global outreach can significantly amplify your customer base and drive business growth beyond traditional boundaries.

Scale with Flexibility

The beauty of a home-based business lies in its scalability. Starting small minimizes risk, allowing entrepreneurs to grow their business at a manageable pace. This flexibility ensures that expansion aligns with market demands and personal capabilities, fostering a sustainable growth trajectory.

(Resource: “The 6 Best Strategies For Business Expansion“, Giacomo Verde)

Steps to Launch Your Home-Based Business

Chart a Strategic Path

A comprehensive business plan is the cornerstone of any successful venture. It should encompass your objectives, identify your target market, and detail your product or service offerings. A well-crafted plan serves as a roadmap, guiding your business decisions and strategies towards achieving your goals.

(Resource: “Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Simple Business Plan“, Joe Weller)

Leverage Accounting Tools

Effective financial management is crucial for the success of your home-based business. Utilizing accounting software helps in tracking expenses, managing invoices, and simplifying tax preparations. Smart financial management is key to maintaining profitability and ensuring the long-term sustainability of your business. Additionally, staying abreast of financial trends and tools can further streamline your operations, ensuring you stay ahead in a competitive market. Instead of spending money on monthly subscriptions, you can leverage free accounting software that offers essential features like invoicing and tax deduction tracking.

(Resource:  Express Accounts Accounting Software by NCH Software; free version available.  Dustwood Media uses the paid version, $152/year paid quarterly – compared to $234/year for Sage Start program).

Adopt a Customer-Centric Approach

Understanding and meeting the needs of your target audience is fundamental. Tailoring your offerings to address the specific preferences and challenges of your customers can significantly enhance satisfaction and loyalty. A customer-centric approach is essential for building a strong, loyal customer base.

(Resource: “Steps to Find Your Target Audience“, Marketing Evolution)

Prioritize Exceptional Customer Service

Outstanding customer service can set your home-based business apart. Prompt, courteous, and helpful interactions can foster positive customer relationships, encourage repeat business, and generate referrals. Prioritizing customer service is not just beneficial; it’s essential for long-term success.

(Resource:  “How To Easily Get Referrals from Your Customers in 9 Steps“, Akshat Biyani).

Stepping into the realm of home-based entrepreneurship marks the beginning of a transformative journey. It’s a path that blends passion with practicality, dreams with discipline. As you navigate this exciting venture, remember that the strength of your business lies in its adaptability and your commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. With dedication and strategic planning, your home-based business can flourish, offering both personal fulfillment and professional success. Let this journey redefine your entrepreneurial spirit, and may it lead to a rewarding and prosperous future.

(Guest blogger Courtney Rosenfeld, Gig Spark)

The Internet: Swimming With Sharks

photo of ocean waves on beach.

Ah, the world of the Internet.  Instant communications, facts at your fingertips.

And the world’s greatest prowling ground for fakes, liars, thieves and worse.

When you go to the Internet, what do you get?  Words, images, and sounds.  The closest you can come to actual face-to-face interaction with another human being is via videoconferencing (such as Skype).  Otherwise, what you are seeing and hearing is at second-hand – and anonymous.  Not only that, but there are things going on under the surface as your computer communicates with the other computers on the Net.

What better place for someone to fleece a sucker, launch an attack (viruses, Trojan horses or worse) or spread a falsehood?

That’s not to say there are no honest people or reliable sites – far from it.  What it DOES say is that you must always be on your guard in cyberspace.

1) Be sure you have a good, reliable antivirus / security program on your computer – use it and keep it up to date.

2) Don’t accept everything you read – double-check your facts.  (A good source for tracking down online rumors is snopes.com.)

3) Remember some basic rules of life:  If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t true.  There’s no such thing as a free lunch.  And there’s a sucker born every minute.

4) Keep in mind that when you enter cyberspace, you are no longer in your home town.  You may live in Smalltown, Ontario, but on the Internet you are plunged into the crossroads of the entire planet, and amid the anonymous crowds are pickpockets, cutthroats and conmen looking for a likely victim.

5) Don’t take people on the Internet at face value.  Remember, you’re not seeing their face – you’re seeing the words/images/sounds that someone has chosen to put up on the screen.

To sum up:  be honest, be good, be kind – but also be paranoid.