So you have spent a ton of time designing your own greeting cards for the people you love. Your family and friends have all said they are better than Hallmark and you should go into business for yourself selling greeting cards. That sounds good to you because then you could be your own boss, be doing something you enjoy doing and share your talent with the world. The question is how do you start a greeting card business when you are a beginner and you don't know what steps to take after designing your cards?
I would definitely start your business online. This is the best way to test your products and find your market without the massive upfront costs associated with opening a store. Just recently one of the largest greeting card stores in Delaware, Coccia is shutting its doors after 35 years in the business.
Back in February 2010, market research firm Mintel reported that the $11 billion greeting card business was being bombarded by new online competition. It's been staving off threats by introducing creative new cards -- think of the ones with music built-in, or others that allow purchasers to record a personal greeting. But the industry has been merely treading water for a couple of years now after strong growth earlier this decade, the report said.
Today it is not viable to open an offline greeting card business it is certain death. The great thing about an online business is you can sell your greeting cards worldwide, you are not limited to a suburb or city and your overheads are nowhere near the costs of running a bricks and mortar business.
Starting a Greeting Card Business on the Internet still takes planning, so the best way to start to is to write a business plan. A business plan will help you organize your thoughts and better prepare you for selling greeting cards and making it a success. A great place to start is by researching other online greeting card businesses on the internet and start writing down some ideas.
A good business plan should include information on:
A description of your business - what type of cards will your business offer? Who will want your product and how will you market your cards to potential clients? Think about what type of cards you will make in your business; are they romantic cards? Cards for special occasions? Cards directed at businesses? Do they have a theme like "Cards for Golfers and Gardeners?"
Equipment and inventory needed - What equipment will be required to run your business? What type of inventory will you need to start? Where will you get the supplies and equipment you need to make your business operational and what will the cost of these materials be? Will you make the cards by hand or computer? Will you print all of your cards at home or send them to a printer to be done? Do you need any new software or equipment like printers? What kinds of paper and decorations will your cards use and how much will the equipment cost that you need to start out?
Competition and Demand for Product - Who are your competitors? What do you offer that your competitors do not? How will you make your product unique so that you offer something that is not available now to potential clients? Are you planning on marketing to businesses? Are you planning on marketing with a website and running your business completely online or will you be marketing to companies and stores with your product on shelves? Who already sells products like yours and can you compete with those who are already selling similar products?
Operation procedures - How will you run your business? Who do you need to help in the process? What are your creation plans and how will you develop your product? Are you going to do all the work yourself? Will you advertise through a catalog or through a website? Will you have an inventory on hand or make cards as they are ordered? Is this going to be a part-time business or your full-time income?
Long-term and short-term goals - Where do you see your business being in a year, two years, three years and five years? Write a detailed monthly action plan for the next year and a quarterly detailed plan for each of the years after that. Set your goals and plan how you intend to reach those business goals.
Financing- Do you have the capital needed to start your own business without financial help? How much money do you plan to invest? Do you need other investors? Do you plan to have a partner, ask family and friends for investment capital or apply for a business loan or grant? Applying for a business grant or loan will require a detailed business plan to be submitted showing that you have thought out and planned everything necessary to start your business. This will also require financial information from you for the past three years, projected costs and income, resumes of those involved in the business, overhead expenses, competitors in area, and how you plan to compete.
In order to start your own greeting card business and write your business plan there is some information that will help you along during the process. You should consider the following:
What kind of income can you generate with this?
Greeting cards can range in price from $0.50 to $8.50 a card. More than $7.5 billion is generated in retail sales of greeting cards and more than seven billion cards are sold each year.
What are the actual steps that you need to take in order to start your own Greeting Card Business?
The first thing you need to do is your research and planning. Then put your research and planning on paper into a business plan for your business.
Once you have a plan you can execute it by starting with creating your designs, creating a marketing plan and executing it. You will also need to build a blog/website so if you don't know how to do this yourself then you will need to find a web designer to do it for you.
What type of printer makes professional looking greeting cards?
Any good quality color printer will work to print off your greeting card. You may find that a multi function printer is the best way to go so that you can scan your designs, print your cards, fax and communicate with clients and more efficiently run your business with one machine. The top five multi function printers are considered to be
1.Brother MFC- 7820N Printer
2.Canon Pixma MP600
3.HP Officejet 9120 multifunction printer
4.Samsung SCX 4200
5.Epson AcuLaser CX11NF
How do I get them in stores?
To get your greeting cards into stores you will need to do a great deal of cold calling and legwork. Design a portfolio of your cards, a price list of costs and contact the buyer for each store. Small stores may be the way to start and then when you go to larger established or national chains you can show them the success that you have had in other stores.
What does the printing cost?
When going to a print shop or having them printed by an online printing company you get a cheaper cost per card with larger orders. It depends on where you go and how many cards you want printed. You can also get a discounted price if you are not in a hurry for your order. Cards can cost approximately $200 for 250 cards at a printing shop. Printing cards at home can work out to be quite expensive due to costs of ink for the printer you have, though again if you buy in bulk you can get a reasonable price. Don't be afraid to shop around.
What is the standard size of a greeting card and where can I find a template?
A sheet of 8 1/2" by 11" cardstock will create two greeting cards of 4 1/4" by 5 1/2". These cards will fit in a standard 4 3/8" by 5 3/4" envelope. This way you do not need to special order envelopes.5 1/4 x 7 1/4 fits a 5x7 are also commonly used.
What type of camera should I buy for taking photos for printing on greeting cards?
Any high quality digital camera will work for creating photos for your card. Digital cameras take out the extra step of having to get pictures developed or printed and scanned onto disc. It can cut down on your overall costs of your card business if you can do it yourself.
How do I get financing for a greeting card business?
There are some business grants and loans out there for start-up businesses but you may not need to go into debt with a financial institution. If you already own a computer, printer and camera then your start-up costs for starting a Greeting Card Business may be minimal. You could start your company for less than $500.
What equipment do I need for a home greeting card business?
You will need a computer, printer, camera or scanner, paper stock and envelopes, inventory and business software to run the company, invoice stores or clients, make business cards and promotional material
What are some of the legal issues I need to be aware of when starting a greeting card business?
Depending on where you live and what the laws are for your area, you may need to register your business and copyright your products and names used. You should contact your local government business office or do some research online to ensure that you know the necessary legal steps required in your area.
What are some good card designing software applications?
There are many great greeting card creation programs for your greeting card business on the market right now. Hallmark has several software packages out there The Print Shop and Broderbund are both respected names in printing software and have some great packages for printing greeting cards.
David W. Allen is an online business consultant and Internet marketer helping business owners build and expand their greeting card business on the Internet. David W. Allen offers a free 10 part mini course revealing "10 Proven Ways To Sell Your Greeting Cards" so if you're are thinking of starting a greeting card business then take the free course today and get started.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_W_Allen
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5712913
Wednesday 25 January 2012
Tuesday 24 January 2012
Work at Home Greeting Card Business - Highly Recommended
Having a work at home greeting card business has probably been the best move I have made as far as making money online.
Here are 4 reasons why I recommend starting a work at home greeting card business.
1) Fun - The greeting card business is about as rejection free as they come. How many
people do you know who don't like getting greeting cards? Hardly any right? When people
call me about wanting to work from home, by nature they are very nice people because they
tend to be givers which makes my life so much fun. I meet new friends.
2) Time - Because you are the "top dog" in your business, you can decide when you want to answer your phone or work in general. This is so much fun because you don't have to ask for days off. You just take one. You do have to work as you know, however, life gets easier when you can plan your work around your life.
3) Money - You can make as much as you like in a work at home greeting card business. It is honestly up to you. Some people just want an extra $500 a month which is very doable in the business, while others are looking for enough money to leave that job that they hate. The greeting card business does millions of dollars per year so the sky is the limit.
4) Promote Online - This business is awesome because you can promote your entire business online if you like which helps if you have a family. Most of the legit ways to promote your business online are free.
These are just a few of the many reasons why starting a greeting card business from home is something to consider.
David Dutton offers a free ecourse on how to grow a successful greeting card business If you are thinking about starting a greeting card business then you should take his free ecourse to learn insider tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Dutton
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1227173
Here are 4 reasons why I recommend starting a work at home greeting card business.
1) Fun - The greeting card business is about as rejection free as they come. How many
people do you know who don't like getting greeting cards? Hardly any right? When people
call me about wanting to work from home, by nature they are very nice people because they
tend to be givers which makes my life so much fun. I meet new friends.
2) Time - Because you are the "top dog" in your business, you can decide when you want to answer your phone or work in general. This is so much fun because you don't have to ask for days off. You just take one. You do have to work as you know, however, life gets easier when you can plan your work around your life.
3) Money - You can make as much as you like in a work at home greeting card business. It is honestly up to you. Some people just want an extra $500 a month which is very doable in the business, while others are looking for enough money to leave that job that they hate. The greeting card business does millions of dollars per year so the sky is the limit.
4) Promote Online - This business is awesome because you can promote your entire business online if you like which helps if you have a family. Most of the legit ways to promote your business online are free.
These are just a few of the many reasons why starting a greeting card business from home is something to consider.
David Dutton offers a free ecourse on how to grow a successful greeting card business If you are thinking about starting a greeting card business then you should take his free ecourse to learn insider tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Dutton
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1227173
Monday 23 January 2012
Tips and Ideas For Hand-Made and Home-Made Wedding Cards
There is nothing more special than making home-made wedding cards that can double as souvenirs for your wedding. Creating your own wedding cards may be more tedious than simply having them made to order, but you cannot take the distinction out of something that is said to be 'hand-made.' It is also a good way to save money without having to sacrifice quality and style. Here are some tips and ideas on how to make hand-made wedding cards:
On selecting your materials:
1.First is to think up of a motif, a color and a design. It would be best if the color of you card is same or complementary to the wedding motif.
2.Second, you need to select the paper and the materials needed to put together your unique card. Paper products can be bought from your local book/stationery stores where buying bulk is cheaper. You can use can also use your computer and print out photographs or clip art. Purchased and/or home-made scrapbook and arts and crafts supplies may also be used.
3.When selecting the paper, choose one that is not too bold as to overpower the colored font of your invitation. The general size of an invitation is 81/2in by 11in, folded in half. But you can choose other shapes like squares, heart shapes, wedding bell shapes or even scroll form.
4.Always keep into mind your budget and go for home-made alternatives if you feel you are spending too much in store products.
Generally, wedding card invitations should contain the following:
1.The names of the groom and the bride.
2.The names of officiating priests or pastors or spiritual authority.
3.The names of the principal sponsors; these are the wedding god-parents and may be more than one pair, although only one pair will be signing the marriage contract.
4.The names of the secondary sponsors, which includes the groomsmen and junior groomsmen and the bridesmaids and junior bridesmaids.
5.The date, time and address and illustrated map of where the wedding is to be held.
6.The address, time and number of reserved seating for the wedding reception, which usually includes an earlier date when the guests are to confirm their attendance.
The wonderful thing about making wedding cards is that you can do it at home, you can choose your own design and it is easy to do:
1.You can choose a simple printed card using your computer and printing it on floral and wedding themed paper available in many bookstores. To add personality, you can add a photograph of the couple in one of the inserts of the invitation.
2.You can use different materials and motifs, such as ribbons, stencils, small charms or dried leaves. And even if you are not much of a creative, you can find instructions and creative examples online. All you need is a glue gun and some paper, simple materials, and you are set to go.
Looking for wedding cards materials? For more info and excellent customer service, visit http://papermilldirect.co.uk.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Anne_Leah_Custodio
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4404306
On selecting your materials:
1.First is to think up of a motif, a color and a design. It would be best if the color of you card is same or complementary to the wedding motif.
2.Second, you need to select the paper and the materials needed to put together your unique card. Paper products can be bought from your local book/stationery stores where buying bulk is cheaper. You can use can also use your computer and print out photographs or clip art. Purchased and/or home-made scrapbook and arts and crafts supplies may also be used.
3.When selecting the paper, choose one that is not too bold as to overpower the colored font of your invitation. The general size of an invitation is 81/2in by 11in, folded in half. But you can choose other shapes like squares, heart shapes, wedding bell shapes or even scroll form.
4.Always keep into mind your budget and go for home-made alternatives if you feel you are spending too much in store products.
Generally, wedding card invitations should contain the following:
1.The names of the groom and the bride.
2.The names of officiating priests or pastors or spiritual authority.
3.The names of the principal sponsors; these are the wedding god-parents and may be more than one pair, although only one pair will be signing the marriage contract.
4.The names of the secondary sponsors, which includes the groomsmen and junior groomsmen and the bridesmaids and junior bridesmaids.
5.The date, time and address and illustrated map of where the wedding is to be held.
6.The address, time and number of reserved seating for the wedding reception, which usually includes an earlier date when the guests are to confirm their attendance.
The wonderful thing about making wedding cards is that you can do it at home, you can choose your own design and it is easy to do:
1.You can choose a simple printed card using your computer and printing it on floral and wedding themed paper available in many bookstores. To add personality, you can add a photograph of the couple in one of the inserts of the invitation.
2.You can use different materials and motifs, such as ribbons, stencils, small charms or dried leaves. And even if you are not much of a creative, you can find instructions and creative examples online. All you need is a glue gun and some paper, simple materials, and you are set to go.
Looking for wedding cards materials? For more info and excellent customer service, visit http://papermilldirect.co.uk.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Anne_Leah_Custodio
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4404306
Sunday 22 January 2012
Saturday 21 January 2012
Friday 20 January 2012
Thursday 19 January 2012
Wednesday 18 January 2012
Tuesday 17 January 2012
Make Money From Home - Are You Getting Discouraged? Here's the Antidote
Discouragement is something we all fight with. We start out with high hopes of making money from home and if after a few weeks or months, we haven't made anything significant or nothing at all, then discouragement starts to set in and we consider giving up, How about you? Are you in this boat? Let's get out of that boat and into the boat that is sailing towards success. Here are a couple of reasons why you feel discouraged and what you can do about it.
Lack of Structure
Some people work well with lack of structure but if you are the sort of person who needs a definite plan to follow, then you have to create your own structure. First of all you have to list the different components of your work from home business. Some of these could be: doing the research such as reading other people's tips, writing your first articles, starting a blog, choosing an affiliate. You name them. All are a part of the mosaic. Realize that doing this research is like laying the foundation of a house. You don't see very much to start. Plan to give a set period of time to each section every day, and keep a note book of what you have learned. Discouragement is a rather vague feeling, but as you work away at some of the components, you will realize that you are making progress.
Lack of Money can Discourage You - work on all the free methods
If you are like me, you would like to buy some of these amazing tools people are selling, but can't put more on your credit card. Perhaps that's a good thing. Many of the same people give some of their ideas for free, so take what's free and follow every tip you can. I am amazed at the information that is given. You are actually taking a course and this is free instruction that you can compile for action today and in the future. Sign up for the free stuff and if you don't have money to pay for the rest, just keep that contact in your book, and maybe later on you can choose what you feel will be the most valuable. Reading about other's ideas and successes can inspire you. Be realistic about your situation and don't let it discourage you.
Take some action.
A famous TV personality suggested this: Write out 25 times a day some sentence that you make up that will encourage you.. If you are old enough you will remember when the teacher punished you by giving you lines to write out. Maybe it was effective, maybe not. But this is not punishment. This is reinforcement of your intentions to be successful. Make it as strong as you can, telling yourself that you can do what it takes. Then repeat it over out loud or say it in front of a mirror, or as you drive in the car when no one can hear you. Maybe you think this is a bit silly or a waste of time, but do it anyway. Right after doing this, then start with one action that will take you a step further to accomplish your goal of making money from home..
Keep believing in yourself and that you started down this road with good intentions and for good reasons. Believe that you can succeed beyond your wildest dreams. Don't give in to that discouragement, but encourage yourself, take action and soldier on.
Visit my site [http://www.bestwaytomakemoneyfromhome.com]. Lillian Cornelius is a writer and online researcher.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lillian_Corneliu
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3229141
Lack of Structure
Some people work well with lack of structure but if you are the sort of person who needs a definite plan to follow, then you have to create your own structure. First of all you have to list the different components of your work from home business. Some of these could be: doing the research such as reading other people's tips, writing your first articles, starting a blog, choosing an affiliate. You name them. All are a part of the mosaic. Realize that doing this research is like laying the foundation of a house. You don't see very much to start. Plan to give a set period of time to each section every day, and keep a note book of what you have learned. Discouragement is a rather vague feeling, but as you work away at some of the components, you will realize that you are making progress.
Lack of Money can Discourage You - work on all the free methods
If you are like me, you would like to buy some of these amazing tools people are selling, but can't put more on your credit card. Perhaps that's a good thing. Many of the same people give some of their ideas for free, so take what's free and follow every tip you can. I am amazed at the information that is given. You are actually taking a course and this is free instruction that you can compile for action today and in the future. Sign up for the free stuff and if you don't have money to pay for the rest, just keep that contact in your book, and maybe later on you can choose what you feel will be the most valuable. Reading about other's ideas and successes can inspire you. Be realistic about your situation and don't let it discourage you.
Take some action.
A famous TV personality suggested this: Write out 25 times a day some sentence that you make up that will encourage you.. If you are old enough you will remember when the teacher punished you by giving you lines to write out. Maybe it was effective, maybe not. But this is not punishment. This is reinforcement of your intentions to be successful. Make it as strong as you can, telling yourself that you can do what it takes. Then repeat it over out loud or say it in front of a mirror, or as you drive in the car when no one can hear you. Maybe you think this is a bit silly or a waste of time, but do it anyway. Right after doing this, then start with one action that will take you a step further to accomplish your goal of making money from home..
Keep believing in yourself and that you started down this road with good intentions and for good reasons. Believe that you can succeed beyond your wildest dreams. Don't give in to that discouragement, but encourage yourself, take action and soldier on.
Visit my site [http://www.bestwaytomakemoneyfromhome.com]. Lillian Cornelius is a writer and online researcher.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lillian_Corneliu
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3229141
Monday 16 January 2012
How to Find the Best Work From Home Opportunities For Mums
Staying at home is a huge sacrifice that new moms face once they make that decision. Saying good bye to a paycheck, yet working harder than ever to care for a household and their child or children. So, you look for ideas for a home business that will truly bring in an income and will justify you not going to a job and putting the kids in daycare. The truth is, there are many good work at home opportunities out there just waiting to be taken advantage of. You need to beware, of course, for the ones that make grandiose promises of financial freedom. As our moms told us, "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is." This especially is true when researching work from home opportunities.
There are get rich quick schemes all over the net, and it is your responsibility to identify them and disqualify them immediately. So many people have wasted time and money on these "opporutnities", and they get discouraged and never try again.
Good news! There ARE legitimate work at home opportunities. It is not easy, and don't let anyone tell you it is. You may or may not have to spend some money to get started. Keep the following in mind when researching a company
1. What product are they selling? Some companies sell a product and want you to be a distributor. Most of these are MLM or multi-level marketing companies, which is a fantastic business model for getting started in your own business for a low start-up cost. You need to find out what the product is and if the price they are selling it for is reasonable. Many MLM companies have good products, but can be overpriced because of the numerous levels that have to get paid, so again, do your research.
Because of the business I am in, I know many people who are MLM-ers and do very well, but I also know many who have gotten into the business thinking they were going to be rich quickly, and after a couple weeks, they got discouraged and quit. As with anything, start out slow and be patient. Hard work will pay off!
2. How much money does it cost to get started? Some companies charge a small fee for shipping, others require large sums of money to get started, as in franchise start ups. Again, you need to do your research before you spend a dime. It can be very frustrating when a company gets your attention, you get excited, and they ask for money before you know what product the company represents. Beware of these, as they may be scams. As a business person, asking for a nominal fee to cover your marketing and/or shipping costs is reasonable. It also "weeds" out the people who aren't really serious about going into business, "tire kickers", if you will. However, make sure to get as much free information first.
3. How serious are you? Honestly...how serious and ambitious are you? Really think about this question. Understand that no matter what any company can promise you, the bottom line is you are in control of your success. As humans, we are more afraid of success than we are of failure! It's easy to fail...just throw your arms up and be done! But to succeed takes a lot of guts, hardwork and time. If you look at the people in your life who are successful, they never give up. I guarantee if you ask those people if they have ever failed, they will probably laugh and tell you that they have failed more times than they have succeeded. Success isn't a sure thing. Only YOU know if you can commit what you need to for a successful outcome.
Being in business for yourself and having the flexibility to be there for your children when they need you is a dream for anyone. Or maybe you don't have to work for financial reasons, but you want something to do for yourself. Starting a home based business is a gratifying and exciting adventure that I think moms should try. Again, DO YOUR RESEARCH and then GO FOR IT!!!
Written by Trina Giusti, work at home mom of two children and Business Development Manager for Responsive Data, LLC. We are one of the top three lead generation companies in the network marketing industry and have been in business nearly 10 years. I work with leaders in Network Marketing to partner with and develop custom recruiting systems and custom lead campaigns at no cost for their teams. We are revolutionizing the industry with our custom prospect management system, called The Ultimate Prospector(tm), which incorporates the latest in Web technology and allows members to generate their own leads through this system for free! Call me or email me for more information anytime: trina@responsivedata.com 888.455.3237 ext. 712 http://www.ultimateprospector.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trina_Giusti
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1816688
There are get rich quick schemes all over the net, and it is your responsibility to identify them and disqualify them immediately. So many people have wasted time and money on these "opporutnities", and they get discouraged and never try again.
Good news! There ARE legitimate work at home opportunities. It is not easy, and don't let anyone tell you it is. You may or may not have to spend some money to get started. Keep the following in mind when researching a company
1. What product are they selling? Some companies sell a product and want you to be a distributor. Most of these are MLM or multi-level marketing companies, which is a fantastic business model for getting started in your own business for a low start-up cost. You need to find out what the product is and if the price they are selling it for is reasonable. Many MLM companies have good products, but can be overpriced because of the numerous levels that have to get paid, so again, do your research.
Because of the business I am in, I know many people who are MLM-ers and do very well, but I also know many who have gotten into the business thinking they were going to be rich quickly, and after a couple weeks, they got discouraged and quit. As with anything, start out slow and be patient. Hard work will pay off!
2. How much money does it cost to get started? Some companies charge a small fee for shipping, others require large sums of money to get started, as in franchise start ups. Again, you need to do your research before you spend a dime. It can be very frustrating when a company gets your attention, you get excited, and they ask for money before you know what product the company represents. Beware of these, as they may be scams. As a business person, asking for a nominal fee to cover your marketing and/or shipping costs is reasonable. It also "weeds" out the people who aren't really serious about going into business, "tire kickers", if you will. However, make sure to get as much free information first.
3. How serious are you? Honestly...how serious and ambitious are you? Really think about this question. Understand that no matter what any company can promise you, the bottom line is you are in control of your success. As humans, we are more afraid of success than we are of failure! It's easy to fail...just throw your arms up and be done! But to succeed takes a lot of guts, hardwork and time. If you look at the people in your life who are successful, they never give up. I guarantee if you ask those people if they have ever failed, they will probably laugh and tell you that they have failed more times than they have succeeded. Success isn't a sure thing. Only YOU know if you can commit what you need to for a successful outcome.
Being in business for yourself and having the flexibility to be there for your children when they need you is a dream for anyone. Or maybe you don't have to work for financial reasons, but you want something to do for yourself. Starting a home based business is a gratifying and exciting adventure that I think moms should try. Again, DO YOUR RESEARCH and then GO FOR IT!!!
Written by Trina Giusti, work at home mom of two children and Business Development Manager for Responsive Data, LLC. We are one of the top three lead generation companies in the network marketing industry and have been in business nearly 10 years. I work with leaders in Network Marketing to partner with and develop custom recruiting systems and custom lead campaigns at no cost for their teams. We are revolutionizing the industry with our custom prospect management system, called The Ultimate Prospector(tm), which incorporates the latest in Web technology and allows members to generate their own leads through this system for free! Call me or email me for more information anytime: trina@responsivedata.com 888.455.3237 ext. 712 http://www.ultimateprospector.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trina_Giusti
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1816688
Sunday 15 January 2012
How to Make Simple and Elegant Cards With Card Toppers
Card making is a popular hobby which allows individuals to express their creativity in a simple paper craft medium. Making you own designer cards is easy to do once you have located some interesting focal pictures or designs known as card toppers.
To make a simple yet elegant cards, take an A4 (approx 11 inches by 8 inches) sheet of card and fold it in half. To get a smooth fold, use the base of spoon to make the crease. Now taking a piece of card in a coordinating colour, cut to 7 inches by 5 inches, and using adhesive, stick to the front of the card in a centred position. Now taking some gold mirror card or mirri board, cut a slightly smaller rectangle, which you can just cut and layer on top of your previous card, again using adhesive to secure it in place. This technique is called matting and layering, and it is a great way to and feature depth and dimension to your card making projects.
At this point you need to locate a card topper. A card topper is a ready-made design or image that you can place on your cards as the focal point. Card toppers are sold pre-printed in craft stores, or you can print your own card topper using your computer and printer. When locating card toppers, it is essential that you choose images where the copyright is not in question. It is also important in terms of cost to locate images which are royalty free, other wise your card making projects can become quite expensive. Nowadays, there are websites available to download images or designs for card toppers and these can have advantages, as once you have downloaded the design you can use it over and over again reducing the cost of your hobby. What is more, by printing the images onto different card stock, with different finishes, your can create different effects.
Once you have chosen your card topper, whether it be bought from a crafts store or downloaded and printed onto your chosen card stock, you need to trim it to your desired size and place onto your matting and laying. Now you will have created a frame and a focal point to your card.
To finish off your card, print off a greeting onto paper and trim with decorated edge scissors, and stick to the front of the card at the top in the centre. Alternatively you may choose a rubber stamp with a pre-made greeting, and stamp your greeting onto the card using an ink pad. To add an extra special touch, take about half a metre of organza ribbon and tie around the spine and front page of your card, then tie into a bow. And for even further detail, you can add more embellishments such as glitter or faux gems.
Paper crafting is one of the most versatile crafts around, and card making can be enjoyed by all members of the family. Card making is a great craft activity for parents and children, and is particularly fun to do in the run up Christmas and the Holiday Season. The use of card toppers makes card crafting quick and fun to do, and this enables younger children to become involved with the crafting activity very easily.
Allison Galpin - Card Topper Designer and Artist for printable card toppers http://www.cardtoppers4crafts.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Galpin
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3336819
To make a simple yet elegant cards, take an A4 (approx 11 inches by 8 inches) sheet of card and fold it in half. To get a smooth fold, use the base of spoon to make the crease. Now taking a piece of card in a coordinating colour, cut to 7 inches by 5 inches, and using adhesive, stick to the front of the card in a centred position. Now taking some gold mirror card or mirri board, cut a slightly smaller rectangle, which you can just cut and layer on top of your previous card, again using adhesive to secure it in place. This technique is called matting and layering, and it is a great way to and feature depth and dimension to your card making projects.
At this point you need to locate a card topper. A card topper is a ready-made design or image that you can place on your cards as the focal point. Card toppers are sold pre-printed in craft stores, or you can print your own card topper using your computer and printer. When locating card toppers, it is essential that you choose images where the copyright is not in question. It is also important in terms of cost to locate images which are royalty free, other wise your card making projects can become quite expensive. Nowadays, there are websites available to download images or designs for card toppers and these can have advantages, as once you have downloaded the design you can use it over and over again reducing the cost of your hobby. What is more, by printing the images onto different card stock, with different finishes, your can create different effects.
Once you have chosen your card topper, whether it be bought from a crafts store or downloaded and printed onto your chosen card stock, you need to trim it to your desired size and place onto your matting and laying. Now you will have created a frame and a focal point to your card.
To finish off your card, print off a greeting onto paper and trim with decorated edge scissors, and stick to the front of the card at the top in the centre. Alternatively you may choose a rubber stamp with a pre-made greeting, and stamp your greeting onto the card using an ink pad. To add an extra special touch, take about half a metre of organza ribbon and tie around the spine and front page of your card, then tie into a bow. And for even further detail, you can add more embellishments such as glitter or faux gems.
Paper crafting is one of the most versatile crafts around, and card making can be enjoyed by all members of the family. Card making is a great craft activity for parents and children, and is particularly fun to do in the run up Christmas and the Holiday Season. The use of card toppers makes card crafting quick and fun to do, and this enables younger children to become involved with the crafting activity very easily.
Allison Galpin - Card Topper Designer and Artist for printable card toppers http://www.cardtoppers4crafts.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Galpin
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3336819
Saturday 14 January 2012
The Best Valentine's Day Cards
"It is the thought that counts," a lot of people say but what really is the best Valentine's Day card that you can give? Would you give your artistic approach in creating a Valentine's Day card such as making card out of a newspaper, thin Japanese paper, onion skin or some recycled items? It is now a geeky world, so would a valentine e-card be enough to tell your partner that you love him/her so much?
Valentine's Day is all about love. But love without action is vain. Without showing your love by way of words or some loving actions, no one would know about it. Perhaps a smile is enough to save the day but you need to show your love in a concrete form. Something that can be remembered and can capture your love. Adding a valentine e-card to your intimate chat would of great help. It will inspire your partner. The e-card should contain a personalized message- a message that you often tell her but in a romantic form. It may sound too old style but it will help her remember memorable event in your life.
If you can personally hand the Valentine's Day card, then it is recommended that you will do that. Having a courier send the card with roses while you are following may add to the surprise but nothing is more romantic when you are bringing the card yourself perhaps with chocolates and roses. They way it is delivered are just toppings, the real cream of the cake is how did you passionately compose your message in such a way that it encapsulates the feelings that you wanted to impart.
When you knock the door and hand her the roses, you picked your Valentine's Day card with a smile and give it to her. Let her read it and listen to it attentively. When the message is delivered is all done but once there is real love in making that, it would surely be kept forever; be it a card with a collage of sweet memories or just a plain card bought in a shop but with a lovely message.
Jose Fuentes is an advocate of article marketing, an SEO specialist, article/blog writer, blogger and spinner. You can check his sample blog on http://articlerooms.blogspot.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jose_Fuentes
Valentine's Day is all about love. But love without action is vain. Without showing your love by way of words or some loving actions, no one would know about it. Perhaps a smile is enough to save the day but you need to show your love in a concrete form. Something that can be remembered and can capture your love. Adding a valentine e-card to your intimate chat would of great help. It will inspire your partner. The e-card should contain a personalized message- a message that you often tell her but in a romantic form. It may sound too old style but it will help her remember memorable event in your life.
If you can personally hand the Valentine's Day card, then it is recommended that you will do that. Having a courier send the card with roses while you are following may add to the surprise but nothing is more romantic when you are bringing the card yourself perhaps with chocolates and roses. They way it is delivered are just toppings, the real cream of the cake is how did you passionately compose your message in such a way that it encapsulates the feelings that you wanted to impart.
When you knock the door and hand her the roses, you picked your Valentine's Day card with a smile and give it to her. Let her read it and listen to it attentively. When the message is delivered is all done but once there is real love in making that, it would surely be kept forever; be it a card with a collage of sweet memories or just a plain card bought in a shop but with a lovely message.
Jose Fuentes is an advocate of article marketing, an SEO specialist, article/blog writer, blogger and spinner. You can check his sample blog on http://articlerooms.blogspot.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jose_Fuentes
Friday 13 January 2012
Beginners Guide to Card Blanks For Card Making
A lot of people start card making for an easy hobby, not only does it let you show off your creative flare but many people find it very relaxing and rewarding too.
The Basics
The most important item for card making is the actual card itself. This will normally consist of a single sheet which has a crease in the center which when it is folded gives you the blank greeting base.
There are many types of card blanks available for sale but don't feel overwhelmed by the choice as when just starting out the most popular size for budding crafty beginners is A6. This measures when folded in half 148mm x 105mm (almost 6" x 4") so they are not two large and daunting to work with when you are first starting.
Colour Choice
The most popular colour is of course white but you can get so many different coloured card blanks. Perhaps you are thinking of making a welcome new baby card and want to use the colour's pink or blue. Ivory is also a popular colour and perfect for wedding and christening cards.
I have been making cards for a few years now and my favourite card blank size is square 140mm x 140mm. I mainly use white card when I am crafting.
Card Quality
One thing to look for when you are buying card blanks is the quality also known as the gsm, this is the card weight. The most popular weight is 210gsm as this is a versatile card and able to go through most household printers, so perfect if you want to print greeting cards for your wedding, Christmas or create some invites.
300gsm is a heavy weight card, you may want to use this if you are using decoupage or a lot of embellishments on your card. This will allow the card to stand up well without it falling over when on display.
Size
There are many different sized card blanks available with the most popular being A6 as previously mentioned, A5 which is double the size. DL cards are tall and slim and these make lovely wedding invitations then the various sized square cards.
Don't Forget
When buying your pre-creased blanks don't forget you will need envelopes and if you are planning on selling them to friends, family, co-workers or at craft fairs then you will need clear cello bags which are designed to show off the card inside the bag keeping it in perfect condition.
Visit One Stop Card Crafts for discount card making supplies.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_E_Parkin
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6082653
The Basics
The most important item for card making is the actual card itself. This will normally consist of a single sheet which has a crease in the center which when it is folded gives you the blank greeting base.
There are many types of card blanks available for sale but don't feel overwhelmed by the choice as when just starting out the most popular size for budding crafty beginners is A6. This measures when folded in half 148mm x 105mm (almost 6" x 4") so they are not two large and daunting to work with when you are first starting.
Colour Choice
The most popular colour is of course white but you can get so many different coloured card blanks. Perhaps you are thinking of making a welcome new baby card and want to use the colour's pink or blue. Ivory is also a popular colour and perfect for wedding and christening cards.
I have been making cards for a few years now and my favourite card blank size is square 140mm x 140mm. I mainly use white card when I am crafting.
Card Quality
One thing to look for when you are buying card blanks is the quality also known as the gsm, this is the card weight. The most popular weight is 210gsm as this is a versatile card and able to go through most household printers, so perfect if you want to print greeting cards for your wedding, Christmas or create some invites.
300gsm is a heavy weight card, you may want to use this if you are using decoupage or a lot of embellishments on your card. This will allow the card to stand up well without it falling over when on display.
Size
There are many different sized card blanks available with the most popular being A6 as previously mentioned, A5 which is double the size. DL cards are tall and slim and these make lovely wedding invitations then the various sized square cards.
Don't Forget
When buying your pre-creased blanks don't forget you will need envelopes and if you are planning on selling them to friends, family, co-workers or at craft fairs then you will need clear cello bags which are designed to show off the card inside the bag keeping it in perfect condition.
Visit One Stop Card Crafts for discount card making supplies.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_E_Parkin
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6082653
Thursday 12 January 2012
Why Make Cards (Instead of Buying Them)?
Nowadays, everything comes instant. The advent of modern technology has brought us in an era when we would get whatever we want in a snap. Gone are the days when you have to cook spaghetti, the traditional way. Now, we already have instant spaghetti mixes and sauces to solve all of our party problems. Easy to prepare foods are also everywhere. Like the cordon bleu for instance, gone are the days when you have to do it step by step, now our supermarkets offer ready to fry cordon bleu.
Everything is now fast paced. We have to live with the changing times so sometimes we can't stick to the usual procedure anymore. We can't go for the traditional method of doing things because it will occupy most of our time and it is not that logical too. Come to think of it, why would you bother doing things the hard way when there is already an easier and more convenient way of doing it?
But truth be told, sometimes things would come out better if we make it the conventional and traditional way. More often, a homemade spaghetti tastes better than the typical ones that we normally buy in the fast food restaurants. Aside from spaghetti, greeting cards are also better appreciated if one would opt to make their own card rather than buy one from the store.
You may say, no one makes a greeting card anymore! Well, maybe, that's the sad reality of it. But have you ever given a thought that the fact that no one already bothers to make a card led to the diminishing value of good old greeting cards. Just because the recipient knows for a fact how easy it is to buy a greeting card in your neighborhood bookstore, makes her think that you did not actually exerted an effort on that card. The recipient's assumption is true, actually.
Cards available in the bookstores are very much ready-made. You just have to put the name of the recipient and affix your signature at the bottom part of the card. Also, we now have a wide variety of cards in the market. There is now a card for almost everything that we feel. There is that one card that could say exactly the things that we wanted to say but we can't articulate. Also, there are already more than a thousand cards with fancy covers ranging from the nature themed to the cartoon inspired covers. Greeting cards got everything covered and this sadly diminishes the value exerted in the greeting card.
All of these reasons and more, makes a handmade and personalized greeting card a better choice in the event that you have to attend a party and give a celebrator a card.
Visit Paper Mill Direct to know more about Wedding Cards.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Anne_Leah_Custodio
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Submitted On August 07, 2010. Viewed 12 times. Word count: 459.
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Everything is now fast paced. We have to live with the changing times so sometimes we can't stick to the usual procedure anymore. We can't go for the traditional method of doing things because it will occupy most of our time and it is not that logical too. Come to think of it, why would you bother doing things the hard way when there is already an easier and more convenient way of doing it?
But truth be told, sometimes things would come out better if we make it the conventional and traditional way. More often, a homemade spaghetti tastes better than the typical ones that we normally buy in the fast food restaurants. Aside from spaghetti, greeting cards are also better appreciated if one would opt to make their own card rather than buy one from the store.
You may say, no one makes a greeting card anymore! Well, maybe, that's the sad reality of it. But have you ever given a thought that the fact that no one already bothers to make a card led to the diminishing value of good old greeting cards. Just because the recipient knows for a fact how easy it is to buy a greeting card in your neighborhood bookstore, makes her think that you did not actually exerted an effort on that card. The recipient's assumption is true, actually.
Cards available in the bookstores are very much ready-made. You just have to put the name of the recipient and affix your signature at the bottom part of the card. Also, we now have a wide variety of cards in the market. There is now a card for almost everything that we feel. There is that one card that could say exactly the things that we wanted to say but we can't articulate. Also, there are already more than a thousand cards with fancy covers ranging from the nature themed to the cartoon inspired covers. Greeting cards got everything covered and this sadly diminishes the value exerted in the greeting card.
All of these reasons and more, makes a handmade and personalized greeting card a better choice in the event that you have to attend a party and give a celebrator a card.
Visit Paper Mill Direct to know more about Wedding Cards.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Anne_Leah_Custodio
Did you find this article helpful? 00
Ads by Google
Write Off Credit Cards
www.money-saver.co.uk/card_refunds
Legal Loophole can clear Cards. Do you qualify? Take the test today
Bad Credit? Top 10 Cards
www.TotallyMoney.com/Credit-Cards
Top UK Credit Cards for Bad Credit. Up to £1,600 Limit - Apply Online!
Hammer Embossed Card
www.sohopaper.co.uk
Available in sheets or Creased Card For Wedding Invites - Best Prices !
Instant Credit Cards
adverse.creditchoices.co.uk/
Compare adverse credit cards- apply online for decision in 60 seconds.
Write Off Your Debts
www.FreshFinance.net
Do you Qualify to Write off Debts? Try our Free 30 Second Debt Test
Get Involved
0 comments Suggest a topic
Article Tools
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Michelle Anne Leah Custodio
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Secured Credit Cards- Consumer Tips
50 Surefire Business Card Tips
16 Ways to Make Your Business Cards Unforgettable
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Prepaid Visa and MasterCard Debit Cards (aka "Prepaid Credit Cards")
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Your Soap Style Reveals Your Personality!
Do You Have a Soap Theme?
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Pros And Cons Of Sewing Machines
Including My Kids on a Creative Journey to a Creative Life
Submitted On August 07, 2010. Viewed 12 times. Word count: 459.
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Wednesday 11 January 2012
The Last 30 Years of Graphic Design History
For this article I'm going to speak from my own personal experience. I started working at a small Midwest newspaper as a graphic artist in 1980. The newspaper was still doing some printing using lead type but was transitioning to newer technology.
This newer technology involved cutting and pasting long strips of text on paper that had just gone through a waxer onto a newspaper page template. We used X-acto blades for cutting and glass rollers for pressing the text onto the paper templates.
For photographs we created halftones. These were created with a small vertical camera in a large darkroom. The photographs were imaged onto paper made up of small halftone dots. These halftone images were developed, fixed and dried. Then they too were pasted on a newspaper page template.
Sometimes we also cut and pasted line-art either from stock books or created by an artist to make the pages fancier. In 1989 I went to work for another newspaper, but this one had high tech Israeli equipment called Scitex in another department. I started out as a paste-up artist, then worked my way into the Scitex department on two different workstations that were valued at between $500,000 and $1 million apiece.
One workstation scanned high resolution photos and then we color-corrected the photos. The other workstation was a page layout station where we assembled photos, graphics and created newspaper pages that were output to film.
In that year, the Art Department had an Apple computer with Photoshop 1.0 and Illustrator 1.0 loaded on it. These were considered "non-production" tools used by the Art Department just for creating art. These desktop computers did not have the horsepower of the Scitex system for creating an entire daily newspaper and outputting film.
In 1998, I worked for one of the major companies that printed the Yellow Pages. Adobe finally came around to creating Photoshop and Illustrator that would work on a PC and not just on Apple Macintoshes. It was then that the graphic arts field really opened up.
Scanners for the PC became incredibly cheap, dropping from $500,000 to $5,000 in just a few years. Scitex workstations were replaced by Macintosh and PC workstations running Photoshop, Illustrator, Freehand and QuarkXPress.
And after Y2K came and went, the prices dropped even more. It was now affordable for anyone to become a graphic artist or web designer. Software, computers and scanners were cheap compared to the early 1990's.
But, what I've learned is that just because anyone can now be a graphic artist, not everyone should do it. It's like saying that because you learn to write a paragraph in school you qualify as a professional writer or because you can take pictures with your iPhone you are now a professional photographer.
There is still a place in the world for professional graphic artists and designers who have talent. Like any other profession, however, competition is fierce. Mastery of the tools is essential. I just can't wait to see what kinds of graphic arts tools the next 10 years will bring.
Mike S. Wilkins writes about graphic design packaging and marketing plus other subjects for of interest to the retail marketplace.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_S_Wilkins
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6790933
This newer technology involved cutting and pasting long strips of text on paper that had just gone through a waxer onto a newspaper page template. We used X-acto blades for cutting and glass rollers for pressing the text onto the paper templates.
For photographs we created halftones. These were created with a small vertical camera in a large darkroom. The photographs were imaged onto paper made up of small halftone dots. These halftone images were developed, fixed and dried. Then they too were pasted on a newspaper page template.
Sometimes we also cut and pasted line-art either from stock books or created by an artist to make the pages fancier. In 1989 I went to work for another newspaper, but this one had high tech Israeli equipment called Scitex in another department. I started out as a paste-up artist, then worked my way into the Scitex department on two different workstations that were valued at between $500,000 and $1 million apiece.
One workstation scanned high resolution photos and then we color-corrected the photos. The other workstation was a page layout station where we assembled photos, graphics and created newspaper pages that were output to film.
In that year, the Art Department had an Apple computer with Photoshop 1.0 and Illustrator 1.0 loaded on it. These were considered "non-production" tools used by the Art Department just for creating art. These desktop computers did not have the horsepower of the Scitex system for creating an entire daily newspaper and outputting film.
In 1998, I worked for one of the major companies that printed the Yellow Pages. Adobe finally came around to creating Photoshop and Illustrator that would work on a PC and not just on Apple Macintoshes. It was then that the graphic arts field really opened up.
Scanners for the PC became incredibly cheap, dropping from $500,000 to $5,000 in just a few years. Scitex workstations were replaced by Macintosh and PC workstations running Photoshop, Illustrator, Freehand and QuarkXPress.
And after Y2K came and went, the prices dropped even more. It was now affordable for anyone to become a graphic artist or web designer. Software, computers and scanners were cheap compared to the early 1990's.
But, what I've learned is that just because anyone can now be a graphic artist, not everyone should do it. It's like saying that because you learn to write a paragraph in school you qualify as a professional writer or because you can take pictures with your iPhone you are now a professional photographer.
There is still a place in the world for professional graphic artists and designers who have talent. Like any other profession, however, competition is fierce. Mastery of the tools is essential. I just can't wait to see what kinds of graphic arts tools the next 10 years will bring.
Mike S. Wilkins writes about graphic design packaging and marketing plus other subjects for of interest to the retail marketplace.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_S_Wilkins
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6790933
Tuesday 10 January 2012
make money from home- Start a Home Based Business Even with Limited Cash and Skills!
You wish to start a Home Based Business, Make Money from Home, be your own Boss but unfortunately what is preventing you from getting started is that you don't have much money or special skills. This is a problem that is in the back of the mind of many would be entrepreneurs who wish to make money from home. Let this not be a barrier and dampen your enthusiasm. You certainly can get started if you set about in the right manner.
If you are highly motivated and passionate about achieving your goal of being a successful home based business entrepreneur and make money from home, first you have to do some self searching and self assessment. Next you have to get your priorities right.
"Good things don't come to those who wait, they come to those who want something so bad, and they can't wait for it."--Ashton Kutcher
Every person is blessed with certain skills or qualities they are good at.
You have to identify yourself with those skills and qualities you think you are good at, happy with and feel confident about, especially with respect to home based business. If you are unable to identify them yourself, get the help of your friends.
Skills can be categorized under, Craft Skills, Service Skills and Professional Skills.
Craft Skills.
Some examples are: Carpet cleaning service, Carpentry service, Wall Paper Service, Candle making, Home sewing etc.
To make money from home and be successful in this business category you should have qualities such as being good with your hands, ability to repair things, being artistic etc.
Service Skills.
Some examples are: Care Giver, Child Care, Senior Day Care, Wedding Planner, Party planner, Food Delivery Service, Catering etc.
Qualities that will propel you to success and make money from home are: you should enjoy meeting new people, talking with strangers, helping people irrespective of other considerations.
Professional Skills.
Some examples are: Business Consultant, Financial Advisor, Interior Decorating Service, Photographic Service, Video Production, Secretarial Service, Transcription Service Book-keeping etc.
To establish yourself in this home based business and make money from home you should have professional knowledge or skills in a particular field. You should be creative, have the capacity to remember facts and figures, make estimates and solve problems.
Having identified the home based business, you should ensure the following:
1. The home based business should not cost you much money to set up.
2. There has to be a need for the Product or Service in your region for you to make money from home.
3. Your home based business offers your customers a product, service or value that will satisfy them and keep them happy.
4. Another aspect that is often overlooked is that it should be a home based business where you do not need to spend too much money in advertising your business. It should be such that you could start by advertising with "Flyers" and mainly by word of mouth. Word of mouth is very powerful. If you render good service and give something that is unique, the message will spread very fast in your community and your home based business is bound to succeed and you will make money from home.
5. The most economic and easiest way to get started is to start operating the home based business from your home, apartment or condominium. You could always move out to a spacious house or building later.
6. Most of these home based businesses do not need much money to get started in a small way. In fact some of them require only your skills. Financial help and support from family members or a small personal loan from the Bank should not be difficult to obtain. In addition the Small Business Admininistration provides all necessary assistance to start a home based business. Necessary information could be obtained from http://sba.gov. Even credit card facilities are taken advantage of to make money from home by skillful home based business entrepreneurs.
Lack of money or skills should not act as a barrier to start a home based business. If you are really passionate about your business and want to make money from home, it is your determination and the courage to succeed in your home based business is what matters most.
"Believe that problems do have answers, that they can be overcome, and that YOU can solve them."- Vincent Peale
Often the difference between a successful person who is able to make money from home and another is not that the former had better skills, ideas and money but the courage that he had, to take the first step and implement his home based business ideas.
Copyright © 2006 Kanaga Siva
About Kanaga: Kanaga Siva has a wealth of experience in Marketing and also running his own Home Based Business. He now operates his Internet Marketing Business. For Articles, Resources, Ideas and Advise to start a Home Based Business and for other recommended Programs, visit his website, http://www.business-fromhome.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kanaga_Siva
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/140247
If you are highly motivated and passionate about achieving your goal of being a successful home based business entrepreneur and make money from home, first you have to do some self searching and self assessment. Next you have to get your priorities right.
"Good things don't come to those who wait, they come to those who want something so bad, and they can't wait for it."--Ashton Kutcher
Every person is blessed with certain skills or qualities they are good at.
You have to identify yourself with those skills and qualities you think you are good at, happy with and feel confident about, especially with respect to home based business. If you are unable to identify them yourself, get the help of your friends.
Skills can be categorized under, Craft Skills, Service Skills and Professional Skills.
Craft Skills.
Some examples are: Carpet cleaning service, Carpentry service, Wall Paper Service, Candle making, Home sewing etc.
To make money from home and be successful in this business category you should have qualities such as being good with your hands, ability to repair things, being artistic etc.
Service Skills.
Some examples are: Care Giver, Child Care, Senior Day Care, Wedding Planner, Party planner, Food Delivery Service, Catering etc.
Qualities that will propel you to success and make money from home are: you should enjoy meeting new people, talking with strangers, helping people irrespective of other considerations.
Professional Skills.
Some examples are: Business Consultant, Financial Advisor, Interior Decorating Service, Photographic Service, Video Production, Secretarial Service, Transcription Service Book-keeping etc.
To establish yourself in this home based business and make money from home you should have professional knowledge or skills in a particular field. You should be creative, have the capacity to remember facts and figures, make estimates and solve problems.
Having identified the home based business, you should ensure the following:
1. The home based business should not cost you much money to set up.
2. There has to be a need for the Product or Service in your region for you to make money from home.
3. Your home based business offers your customers a product, service or value that will satisfy them and keep them happy.
4. Another aspect that is often overlooked is that it should be a home based business where you do not need to spend too much money in advertising your business. It should be such that you could start by advertising with "Flyers" and mainly by word of mouth. Word of mouth is very powerful. If you render good service and give something that is unique, the message will spread very fast in your community and your home based business is bound to succeed and you will make money from home.
5. The most economic and easiest way to get started is to start operating the home based business from your home, apartment or condominium. You could always move out to a spacious house or building later.
6. Most of these home based businesses do not need much money to get started in a small way. In fact some of them require only your skills. Financial help and support from family members or a small personal loan from the Bank should not be difficult to obtain. In addition the Small Business Admininistration provides all necessary assistance to start a home based business. Necessary information could be obtained from http://sba.gov. Even credit card facilities are taken advantage of to make money from home by skillful home based business entrepreneurs.
Lack of money or skills should not act as a barrier to start a home based business. If you are really passionate about your business and want to make money from home, it is your determination and the courage to succeed in your home based business is what matters most.
"Believe that problems do have answers, that they can be overcome, and that YOU can solve them."- Vincent Peale
Often the difference between a successful person who is able to make money from home and another is not that the former had better skills, ideas and money but the courage that he had, to take the first step and implement his home based business ideas.
Copyright © 2006 Kanaga Siva
About Kanaga: Kanaga Siva has a wealth of experience in Marketing and also running his own Home Based Business. He now operates his Internet Marketing Business. For Articles, Resources, Ideas and Advise to start a Home Based Business and for other recommended Programs, visit his website, http://www.business-fromhome.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kanaga_Siva
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/140247
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