Giveaway....AGAIN...win 3 Goats Milk Soaps

Here we go again....this time I have 3 Goats Milk Soaps up for grabs - Grapefruit Essential Oil, Golden Goddess (Baby Phat) and PS I Love You (Bath and Body Works). Hop on to ByHandGiveAways and see the simples details of how to enter.

http://byhandgiveaways.blogspot.com/2010/04/sponsored-enter-here-win-soap-mea-culpa.html

What Lush scents would you like to see in my store?

So....I've been gone, I know....I had a lot going on in my life - store was busy, we were looking for a new house, moving, settling in etc.....I am not completely all unpacked and all, we just moved in 2 weeks ago. Taking it slowly....

I have gotten few Lush scents and I was really wondering which ones are popular and which ones you would like to see. I investigated Lush's ingredients and honestly, as much as they tout natural and all - oh, they are not. Probably the worst ingredient in their products is SLS.

In my store, you can find a lot of the amazing scents of Lush (with changed names, of course) with my REALLY all natural products.

The ones that I have for now are:

Karma

Honey, I washed the kids

American Cream

Rock Star

Uluru

Alkmaar

Champagne Snow Flurries

Jungle

I am really looking forward to finding and buying more, so your help would be very appreciated.

Etsy Buy Handmade MeaCulpaBodyandBath

Getting personal with soap...no, not THAT way!

So, I started making soaps and my biggest challenge so far has been matching colors to the scent. Yeap - it takes some creativity to do that successfully.....and honestly, I dont think I have been all that successful with it.

One scent just sent a lightening bolt through my head and I had the colors pink-gray in my head. That scent was Very Sexy from Victorias Secret. I dont know why, it somehow reminded me of my days when I used to work as a customer service at a

n international phone company. It was elegant, sensual and sexy in such a subtle way - just like the ladies that worked at the office with me.

In a tribute to our inner sensuality - I matched Very Sexy with the soft look of pink shirt and gray pants :-)

Right now I am running specials on my soaps - all my 3oz soaps are marked down to 2.50$

MeaCulpaBodyandBath

Sell Handmade

I want to share the new product line in my store - goats mik soaps!!!

I have been a busy bee lately. You know, its so awesome when you do something you love - you dont mind not knowing where your head is, you are actually happy!

Through this year since I have been selling online, people kept asking me if I do soaps.....at that time, I did not. I was a bit unsure if I ever wanted to offer soaps. That was out of my comfort zone.

Well, that changed! I finally plunged into it! My first dilemma (and it still is as I am still filling up the store) was wha

t scent should I make first? Would it be something for the season and the holiday or something that I actually enjoy smelling. I decided to mix them up and start with a small selection, while slowly adding more scent choices of soap.

The first one I made was a soap for my husband. He wanted something exfoliating so he would be able to use it as a scrubbing soap. I added some pumice stone and loofah and

voila! He loves it! This coming from a guy that is addicted to body wash and doesnt want to ever use a bar of soap. That actually gave me the encouragement to make more and add them to my store.

For now, I have these scents in my store:

Oakmoss Sandalwood, Iced Pumpkin, Birthday Cake, Lilac in Bloom, Nutcracker and a Cucumber Mint exfoliating Goats Milk Soap. I am in the process to add Pink Sugar, Violet Shea and Cupcake - for now.....way more to come in the upcoming days.

I really like having nice pictures of the products too and I have never in my life took a picture of soap - I am so used to photographing jars and bottles. I would really appreciate any input you got to share about my photos :-)

The ingredients are:

coconut oil, palm oil, castor oil, safflower oil, glycerin, water, goat milk, sorbitol, sorbitan oleate, fragrance oil, soybean protein, titanium dioxide

Castor oil adds moisturizing;

Safflower Oil is a highly moisturizing oil with an exceptionally high amount of Oleic acids, deeply soothing and one of the best choices for skin moisturizing;

Glycerin is a humectant, drawing moisture to your skin, allowing it to remain hydrated and soft. Beyond hydrating your skin, glycerin is also known to be a natural remedy for yeast and fungal infections, such as eczema and psoriasis. It is especially good for sensitive skin. Glycerin soap does not contain synthetic ingredients that will cause skin irritations. It keeps your skin looking AND feeling healthy and soft.

The low pH level of goat milk is close to our skin’s own pH. Goat milk also contains alpha-hydroxy acids, which are known for their restorative and rejuvenating qualities.

Another gentle and all natural hair aid - Natural Hair Detangler

Soooo, how did it start? My daughters always, ALWAYS woke up with some messed up hair, totally in knots and it was painful to brush that! I did use store bought sprays to detangle it, but the thing that I hated the most was that it left their hair soapy! Yeap, every single time I gave them a bath and got their hair wet - it already had slippery soapy like thing in it, way before I even applied shampoo.

Decided to play with what I had at home and get this done and over with. First thing that I thought was - jojoba oil. Its a wax, not an oil and its been known as a good hair aid - it gives shine, it nourishes it, it repairs it. Didnt want to put any essential oils - I was dealing with kid after all and I was not sure how their scalp and hair would take that, so I added just a tad bit of rosemary extract. That would help with the knots and add shine and silkiness. At last, I added phytokeratin (carrot product) which is THE best for hair detangling and making it manageable again. And then, I mixed this all with distilled water :-)

I have used this with my girls for few months now and I have given one to my sister. I am so happy with the results!!! No more soapy hair! Whats best, it leaves the locks shiny and silky and even takes care of the frizziness!

I just wanted to share my little discovery, my little all natural hair spray for tangles, knots and shine :-)

If you would like to purchase it, you can do it here (without even opening an acoount):

MeaCulpaBodyandBath

Buy Handmade

Bags full with Bath and Body products from different sellers! Grab yours now!

What IS EGCG Swag Bags?
The Swag bags are a collection of 18 generous sample-sized products from different Bath & Body shops - all members of EGCG ( Etsy Green & Clean Guild!) It's a great way to try different products from different shops at the same time. It's also a great Mother's Day gift idea!
Another awesome feature is that your EGCG Swag Bag is a special reusable, eco-friendly shopping bag! So make sure you put it to good use long after you use the products.

What's IN it?
This round, we have a variarity of handmade bath soaps, lip balms, lotions, facial soaps, laundry soap, candles, bath fizzy, body mist, sugar cube scrub....wonderful goodies!

Where to get them?
Swag Bags will be available on April 15th on EGCG Etsy's shop.

Participating shops:

Morgan Street.
Bunny Butt Apothecary.
Spa Therapy Works.
Right As Rain Creations.
The Bath Project
DressGreen
Jadewicks
You Stink Soap
Shower Treat Soap
Sweet Creek Herbs
Farnham Soaps
Kelle's Kitchen
Mea Culpa Body and Bath
Inseine Creations
Rachel Rene
Grumpy Girl
SudzNThings
Mirasolfarm

A big thanks to Shannon of The Bath Project who originally authored this post

Which picture is an attention grabber?

As every other person that takes their own pictures of the goods they sell - me too, I agonize over how my photos work....


Tell me know, work with me here (or you are here only to drop your entrecard?)....which one of these pix would grab you attention? Which one would make you want the item? If there is none, dont be shy - say so! Constructive criticism can only make one be better!


I am asking this, because - unlike soap - I dont have to make the product ahead of time to sell it. And honestly, I would rather make it fresh and when ordered. So, that means that I need a good stock photo.






a:)




b:)




c:)








d:)

HUGE ECO FRIENDLY giveaway! Green Inspired awesome basket full with all kinds of goodies!

This is Aprils giveaway hosted at Risky Beads Blog . She is so awesome! Every month she collects items from us volunteers, organizes the giveaway and takes care of the winner. Not a lot of people would do that! On top of that - OMG, does she have some good jewelery!

Here is a little intro into this green inspired giveaway:

It's time for the April ArtFire Giveaway!! It's your chance to win a bunch of eco-friendly girly goodness from a bunch of awesome ArtFire sellers! This giveaway will run from today, Wed. April 1st - Tues., April 7th at midnight. There are 11 sellers participating in this giveaway, so please read the entry rules them carefully! Our theme this month is Eco-friendly/Earth Day products, so on to the loot!


This month's prize consists of a Love Your Mama tote bag by NotMoira, an Antique Doll Part by CobWebPalace, a Vegan Trio of Unscented, Lavender, and Oatmeal Guest Soaps from Green Hill Soap Co., Brennan the Friendly Bath Monster by the Shine Your Hiney Soap Co., Scrubbies by leahMarie, Unscented Body Yogurt with Goats Milk from MeaCulpaBodyandBath, Pom-Great-Nate 90z Palm Wax Candle from Jennuine Candles, Earth Day Glow-in-the-Dark Ornament from BAKidagain, Handpainted Key Hanger from ChelseaLynnDesigns, an Earth Day Upcycled Scrabble Tile Pendant from NinjaJenn, and an Upcycled Pendant 'Peaceful Times' from Campgirldesigns. These products retail for $91.00!

But, wait, it gets better!!

Each owner of these shops has volunteered one of their products because they want to promote their shops but also ArtFire as a venue so we are all offering 10% off in our shops during this giveaway! Use this code when purchasing: RBAPRAF10P** ArtFire is a relatively new site in the grand scheme of the online handmade market scene, but we like it because it's very open and has a fee structure that allows us to put our money into our product. If you've been considering giving ArtFire a try, I encourage you to do so as the shops offered at the discounted rate are going fast!

The winner of the contest will be chosen by the random number generator at random.org, so each comment is one entry unless it's incomplete, in which case it will be skipped. To enter the contest, you must visit at least 6 of our 11 shops listed above, come back, and leave 1 comment that mentions your favorite item from all 6 shops, not 6 separate comments. After completing your main entry, you can earn extra entries by doing any or all of the following, putting each one in a separate comment:

--visit the other 5 shops you didn't visit in your first comment and mention your favorite item in one comment for all 5 shops

--blog about the giveaway and link back in your comment

--tweet about the giveaway and link back in your comment

Want automatic entries in this giveaway? Well, then all you have to do is:

--purchase from any Artfire shop from April 1-April 7 and link back with your order #. Your seller will give it to you or ask for it.

--purchase from any of our 11 shops and receive 2 extra entries per shop and link back with your order #. Your seller will give it to you or ask for it.

Please remember to leave your contact information in your comment. We can't contact you if we can't find you!!! Anonymous entries with no email address will be deleted.

-Lori


DONT LEAVE COMMENTS ON MY BLOG. IF YOU WANT TO ENTER GO OVER LORI' S BLOG AND ENTER THERE:

http://riskybeads.blogspot.com/2009/04/april-2009-artfire-giveaway.html

Pay attention to the labels of Anti Aging Cosmetics

Have you ever read the ingredients of the expensive anti aging creams and serums? I bet you never paid attention at the order of ingredients though! Those products do offer a solution - a temporary one....and it comes costly and with side effects. First of all - its gonna hurt your wallet, second - the active ingredients are so far down the line on the list, that they are not really having any lasting impact AND they are full of chemicals....


Natural homemade products put quality first. There is no mass production and paying off your ass for their marketing people, designers, lab technicians etc. We make the products, we test them, most of us design our our labels and market our products on our own. We care for our customers, because our products are not on every single shelf in the stores so we can afford oopsies! There is 0% of ooopsies allowed!


The big companies marketing strategies are very strong and effective. People believe that cosmetic company of that magnitude will not lie...well, they DONT, but they do mislead.


For example, L'Oreals anti aging Collagen filler is everything but helpful! Their main ingredients are Shark Liver Oil, Boswellia, Vitamin E and Collagen BioSpheres. The last is a good ingredient, but that on its own is NOT gonna make this effective! Shark Liver Oil? Really? Do we need to kill more animals for our beauty products? It is beneficial for the skin, but its far from anti aging agent! This ingredient only would make turn around and run!


Estee Lauder's Nutriv Intensive Lifting Cream doesnt even release ALL ingredients! Now how is THAT for a peace of mind for the paying customer, huh? It has more than 54 ingredients and that doesnt mean that its better. Especially when they would not disclose all of them!


Clinique's Total Turnaround....Clinique does offer a premium make up, but c'mon! Does everyone have to jump on the wrinkle fighting bandwagon? ntiAging-Reviews.com team found that Total Turnaround contains Salicylic Acid, which is an ingredient found in some of the most effective acne formula, but not one usually included in wrinkle formulas.


Dior's Capture too, it does not provide a specific list of ingredients. It lists them in a very vague way.


All this reminds me of the dog food industry. The biggest companies like Purina, Eucanuba, Iams, Science Diet....they all do not specify ingredients. They would place "animal fat" as an ingredient...well, which animal? Or fish meal. Which fish? Or they would market the food as protein high, but the protein comes from corn....hummmm...corn is a filler, meat is a protein source.


Do you get my drift?


In contrast to this, the homemade anti aging creams are nothing but natural and safe! The ingredients are all disclosed and they do NOT come from questionable source. Usually we dont even label our products with anti-aging! Why? Because almost 90% of the ingredients we use for anything - lotions, moisturizers etc are already having these properties and why jump on the "fight the wrinkles" bandwagon? Our creams have multiple benefits and no side effects. We all use Shea Butter as one of the ingredients, or Mowrah Butter...and to top it off, we use a big quantity of them so you would feel the benefits of these amazing butters! We do NOT place them at the middle or the bottom of the ingredients list. And, we use what we sell too!


Once I received a comment like this - your lotions are a little more expensive than the ones I can buy from the grocerie store. I'll tell you why its like that too. Because the cheap St Ives, Jergens etc or Avenoo, Bath and Body Works etc....they all use way too much water! Yeap, you heard me right! The beneficial ingredients are in such small percentage that they can afford to sell them for that price! Thats an IF they have beneficial ingredients - not all do.


Ok, done bitching! Maybe....

Some of the information gotten from:
http://antiaging-reviews.com

Visit to read more.

Tattoo Care....Gentle Natural Cleanser

So....yeah, I am obsessed with creating products to treat a new, fresh tattoo. But dont worry, I already have a cream in the works for already existing and older tattoos - for optimum enhancement and gentle moisturizing.


This thing that I researched is a cleanser with Witch Hazel and Rose Floral Water. The two of the best put together. I was so happy when I found out that my husbands tattoo artist used Witch Hazel to clean while tattooing (instead of alcohol) that I wanted to jump!


The rose floral water nourishes & Moisturizes skin, hair, body; naturally regulates skin's oil production; balances skin Ph balance; heals irritated area. It is said that its a gently cleansing and toning product for all skin types. Stimulates regeneration processes, has a calming effect in acne and sunburns. As a result the skin texture becomes even and elastic.

And the good old Witch Hazel...I cant do without it! And I cant recommend it enough. It never burns any kind of irritated skin, nor a burn or scared tissues....and the tattoo is a wound....you wont feel a thing! And it has a cool touch which is just so soothing for the tattoo. I dont even wanna mention how good it is at cleaning the skin! Also, it still helps with the healing.

I used this and the KISS MY TATTOO BALM on my husband and he had no scabbing, his ink is still there and vibrant and his tattoo healed within days, no weeks! He had no problems with the skin drying and itching either. These two worked so good in combination!

Came out with some new items

I have been so lazy lately. I am sitting here, on the computer - but doing actually NOTHING. My daughter was sick and waking up at night way too many times, then waking up way too early in the mornings. I was royally pooped! Wouldnt you be?



So, I got off my lazy butt and made some new things for my virtual store.



I love, just LOVE Almond Biscotti....oh, they are so good, crunchy and a bit bitter and they go so good with a cup of tea or coffee. So, I just had to make this Almond Biscotti Lotion for all those biscotti crazies out there. Yeah, yeah, I'm talking to YOU! LOL



Another thing that I have been hearing lately was this white tea and ginger scent. Hmmmm....is it really that popular? Well? Is it? Anyways.....I decided to give it a try and just do it. Make the darn thing and see for yourself. It DOES smell good though. Fresh, a little bit spicy, a bit of exotic tea.....ah, if I could just be somewhere else :-)



What do you think of a scent with apples, pears and melons? All the juiciness in one bottle. How about the name for it. BUTT NAKED. Yeap! You heard it right. Dare to bare!

What can girls do at a slumber party? DIY lotions, potions, mists, perfumes and bath salts projects!

They can play with essential and fragrance oils and make their own lotions and potions!!! They can create their own perfume oils! Their own bath salts and body mists!

I was thinking a lot while watching my 6 year old all in my stash of bottles, oils, lotions, shampoos, conditioners. We have made few mists together and I've seen her enjoy every second of it. Most importantly - she is so content and happy after she has done her own masterpiece :-)

So, I have created a DIY kit for girls. I have also given you your own choice of fragrances so its more personalized.

8 oz of unscented lotion
2 2oz empty lotion bottles
1 oz of your choice carrier oil
6 vials of 4ml fragrance and/or essential oil
1 1/2oz empty roll on perfume bottle
1 dropper





Choice of fragrance and essential oils:

Champa fragrance oil
Cinnamon fragrance oil
Juniper fragrance oil
Green tea fragrance oil
Lotus fragrance oil
Mandarin fragrance oil
Mimosa fragrance oil
Nerolli fragrance oil
Spearmint fragrance oil
Verbena fragrance oil
Water lilly fragrance oil
Water lotus fragrance oil
Wintergreen fragrance oil
Yuzu fragrance oil
Jasmine fragrance oil
Pineapple fragrance oil
Lilly of the valley fragrance oil
Sensual amber fragrance oil
Sandalwood FO
Musk FO
Lemon blossom FO
Vanilla FO
Coconut cream FO
Pomegranate FO
Mango madness FO
Chocolate FO



Peppermint Supreme essential oil
Sweet orange 5 fold EO
Lime EO
Eucalyptus EO
Anise EO
Lemon EO


Choice of carrier oil:

Jojoba oil
Sweet Almond oil
Grapeseed oil
Olive oil
Sunflower oil
Apricot Kernel oil
Hemp Seed oil


If you prefer already mixed fragrances, the choices are:

RED CURRANT & THYME TEA - FO

PINA COLADA - FO

CUCUMBER AND GREEN TEA - FO

ANGELICA - FO (A light and airy blend of aquatic notes, delicate citruses balanced with soft rose, soft sandalwoods and musks. )

MEDITATION KRISHNA - FO (Strong robust woods infused with spices, spiritual nag champa and frankincense)

ORIENTAL - FO (Asian blend of ylang ylang, cherry blossoms and vanilla secured patchoulis, sandalwoods, vetiver)

ABSINTHE - FO (Anise, sugar, juniper, spices and citruses leading to a unique version of this legendary underground favorite)

ANOMALY - FO (Sexy and complex, this fragrance is beguiling, with notes of white florals, musks, sandalwoods, and grapefruit)

LOVELY - FO (Light musks to sandalwoods, delicately mixed with earthy champa and vetiver)

MOONLIGHT PATH (TYPE) - FO (The scent is the familiar one of lavender, mandarin, bergamot with the invigorating florals like rose, jasmine, violet, ylang, lily of the valley....all of it held together with mysterious and enticing sandalwood, vetiver, oakmoss, vanilla, amber and musk)

ALMOND BISCOTTI - FO (a delicate biscuit with hints of toasted sweet almonds)

BUTT NAKED - FO (fresh green apples perfectly harmonized with refreshing melons and juicy pears)

DRAGONS BLOOD - FO (warm, woody and earthy scent, with notes of amber, vanilla, sandalwood, light tones of powdery musks and hints of asian florals to bring out subtle spice undertones)

JAMAICAN ME CRAZY - FO (Think fun, fruity, fresh and edgy with a sly kick, an original of passion fruit, mangoes, citrus and SSHHH...secretly introduced splash of cannabis)

WHITE TEA AND GINGER - FO (Fresh and slightly spiced, this fragrance is invigorating with subtle notes of exotic tea. Its Refreshing to the senses while evoking a warm feeling timelessness.

ZEN GARDEN - FO (Aquatic water lily, green tea and osmanthus grounded with sweet sandalwood)




I am working on making a kit that would include bath salts, mist bottles, mesh pouches and again - your choice of 6 oils! And for the ones that want it all - I will have a DELUXE kit that includes all of the above! Isnt that great?!


YOU CAN GET IT HERE:

Essential Oils and the eyes area

The eyes are said to be the seat of the soul. We spend enough making them look attractive, but no amounts of mascara or eyeliner can hide the problems that afflict the very delicate skin that surrounds the eye, the crow's feet wrinkles, creased skin, bags under the eyes and darkening around the whole area can depress even the brightest of souls!

With regular use, the essential oils applied around the eyes can diminish the creasing and smooth out the tiny cracks and crevices. The skin around the eyes, however, is extremely fragile and it is important only to use the lightest of base oils and the minimum of essential oils. If any oil gets into the eye, flush it out immediately with water.

Use the oil relevant to your age group.


OILS FOR AROUND THE EYES



18 TO 25 YEARS

2 teaspoons Hazelnut Oil
2 drops Borage Seed Oil
1 drop Chamomile German
1 drop Carrot Oil


25 TO 40 YEARS

2 teaspoons Hazulnut Oil
2 drops Botage Seed
3 drops Evening Primrose
2 drops Lavender
1 drop Lemon
1 capsule Vitamin E
2 drops Carrot


40 TO 45 YEARS

2 teaspoons Hazelnut Oil
6 drops Evening Primrose
2 drops Borage Seed
2 drops Palmarosa
2 drops Lavender
1 capsule Vitamin E
3 drops Carrot


MATURE YEARS

2 teaspoons Hazulnut Oil
5 drops Jojoba Oil
2 capsules Vitamin E
1 drop Lavender
1 drop Lemon
1 drop Bois de rose
3 drops Carrot


* 1 capsule Vitamin E = 250 IUs


Mix the ingredients together well and use the lightest amount around the eye area. Weight around th eye area causes it to sag - and that applies to all oils and creams. Leave the oil for a few minutes and then gently wipe off the excess. Apply th eoil every night.




To treat puffy eyes and dark shadows around the eyes, these are the ingredients you need:


2 teaspoons Hazelnut oil
1 tablespoon Witch Hazel
2 drops Fennel
2 drops Chamomile German


First, dissolve the oils as far as possible in ice cold witch hazel, and place it in the fridge. Wrap an ice cube in a cotton-wool ball, dip it in the essential oil and witch hazel mixture and place it over your closed eye and the puffy area. Leave it in place for a few seconds and then, while the skin is still wet, apply a small quantity of hazelnut oil to the area.

Tired eyes benefit from dabbing with a cold rosehip or green tea. Make up the tea and keep it in the fridge and just dab it around the eyes when they feel that they need it.

You can make up your own eye oil, using the following . It would be ideal to use this while g yourself a face k reatment, for your eyes will be closed and relaxing , and you can lie down and take it completely easy for 5 minutes or so. Apply the oil around the eye area, not on the eyelids.


ESSENTIAL OILS FOR AROUND THE EYE AREA

Chamomile German
Lavender
Fennel
Carrot
Lemon
Palmarosa
Rose


BASE OILS

Hazelnut
Almond


ADDITIONS TO BASE

Jojoba
Evening Primrose
Borage Seed







If you would like anything done, you can contact me at www.MeaCulpaBodyandBath.etsy.com

If you would want to use the info for DIY, have fun creating and playing with the oils, you will enjoy it!

Floral Waters

I read this about floral waters on the internet:


Briefly stated, a hydrosol is the aromatic water that remains after producing an essential oil via steam or water distillation. Hydrosols are sometimes also referred to as a floral water or distillate water.
The plant matter used in essential oil distillation imparts a wonderful aroma to the water. This hydrosol offers therapeutic benefit, and some plants are specifically distilled for the resulting hydrosol instead of the hydrosol being simply a byproduct of the distillation.

Unlike essential oils that should be deluted prior to application to the skin, hydrosols are water soluble, are much more gentle than their essential oil counterparts and can be used directly on the skin without further dilution.

Hydrosols can be used in place of water in creating natural fragrances, lotions, creams, facial toners and other skin care products. They can also be added to the bath, and used on their own as a light cologne or body spray. Hydrosol can be added to finger bowls for elegant, romantic dinners. Examples of commonly available hydrosols are rose, roman chamomile, neroli and lavender.

It kept giving me ideas about what to do with my floral waters. I have arabic friend that I remember his mom was using Orange Blossom Floral Water when his kids were having an upset stomach. Now, I cant do THAT. But I can use them in my facial treatments.

I made an astrigent with Orange Blossom Floral Water, Witch Hazel, Lime and Grapefruit Essential Oils.

Orange Blossom water helps inhibit sebum production in oily skins, making this an especially useful skin care product for teenagers who often have an excess of skin oils. Regenerative properties promotes the production of collagen and fights wrinkles by helping old cells to shred off. Purifying, cleansing and moisturizing.

Witch Hazel is one of nature's best astringents, there is probably no better tonic or toner for skin care preparations. In skin care Witch Hazel can be used as toner or in place of a cleanser. It is particularly beneficial for oil and problem skin through its more gentle properties.

Used in a base cream, lotion or as a wash, grapefruit oil can help to clear a greasy, congested and acne skin, while also helping the tissue get rid of cellulite and drain any excess retained water.

Lime has an astringent and toning action to clear oily skin and acne, and also helps with herpes, insect bites and cuts.





Rose Floral Water...wow....this is one of the best tonics in the world. Tonics stimulate the circulation, reduce oiliness, and help refine open pores and unevenly textured skin. They are usually applied after cleansing to ensure complete removal of any residue left from creams and lotions.

I made Tonic with Rose Water and Palmarosa Essential Oil.

Palmarosa oil moisturizes the skin, while balancing the hydration levels and stimulating cell regeneration. It balances production of sebum, to keep the skin supple and elastic and is valuable for use with acne, dermatitis, preventing scarring, rejuvenating and regenerating the skin, as well as fighting minor skin infections, sore tired feet and athlete's foot.

Rose Water is a gently cleansing and toning product for all skin types. Maintains the pH balance, stimulates regeneration processes, has a calming effect in acne and sunburns. As a result the skin texture becomes even and elastic.

This can be used by people with mature AND young skin!

Now I am even thinking of adding them maybe to my lotions, making some mists with them....the opportunities are endless!

Grab some before my sale ends OCTOBER 31!

What kind of scents would you like to see in my shop?

I am debating AGAIN what to buy and what not. You can help me out to see what actually people like. Please vote on the poll on the right.




Fragrance Choices:

Dragon Blood - autumn-like warm, woody and earthy scent, with notes of amber, vanilla, sandalwood, light tones of powdery musks and hints of asian florals to bring out subtle spice undertones

Almond Biscotti - a delicate biscuit with hints of toasted sweet almonds.

Desert Rose - an alluring rose tapered with musks and sandalwoods

Dragon's Breath - Earthy, yet smooth, a silky blend of Champa, vanillas, heliotrope that is a more delicate version of the classic Dragon's Blood.

Enchanted Evening - Spicy and sharp yet seductive oriental composition of musks, lilies, patchoulis, sandalwoods

Coconut Lime Verbena - The smoothness of coconut infused with lime zest grounded by unique verbena provides a nice rounded scent.

Blueberry

Butt Naked - resh green apples perfectly harmonized with refreshing melons and juicy pears.

Black Berry

Banana

Geisha - A delicate infusion of asian spices, musks and florals, very feminine, seductive and complex.

Hazelnut Cappuccino - Roasted coffee, light chocolate with nutty, full bodied hazelnuts.

Hot Rose - Soft rose with a hint of cinnamon to spice things up

Indian Luck - Warm, unique, and intriquing -- a ubiquitous blend of soft middle eastern spices and soft earthy woods.

Kiwi




ANY ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ABOUT A FRAGRANCE CHOICE ARE WELCOME IN THE COMMENTS.

THANK YOU.

HEADLINE: Chatting with Bohtieque Design, a shop on Etsy

What is your stores name and what do you sell (and anything else that you wanna share about it)?



My store's name is Bohtieque Design, and I design and sell labels and cards, mostly. I started out with photo announcements, but then posted one or two label designs and they just took off, so I concentrate on them the most!



How long have you been crafting for yourself before you decided to share your designs with other?



Actually, I've been working with graphic design for probably 8 years, but before my son came along, I was doing business identity design for small businesses. After my son came home, I changed over to photo announcements and cards. A year later, I started my Etsy shop.



Where do you get your inspiration?



Everywhere. I do often look at fabric designs, old photos and images and design blogs for inspiration.





How do you see yourself down the road?



In a few years, I'd like to see myself doing something very similar, still connecting one on one with clients and still working Etsy in the evenings and summers. I really love my day job--teaching--so I wouldn't want to leave. Hopefully, though, I'll be able to buy a few of those cool Pottery Barn office organization systems, though, so I'll be sitting in a well organized office. (And that, of course, is a total dream. Organizational system or not, I'm still a mess.)



Do you do this for fun or for serious business?



I do this seriously--I think I do most things seriously. I've got a few goals for what I want my business to get me, and those goals require that I take it seriously.



Do you ever get a creative block? If yes, how frustrating is it and how do you deal with that?



I do, sometimes. It usually isn't too hard to get over. Instead of sitting there being upset about it, I'll grab my camera and go take some shots, organize the mess a little, do some cooking or gaze at the TV for a while. Sooner or later, the block just disappears.





What is one favorite thing that you made and felt bad selling it - only because you liked it so much?



I never feel bad--most of my things can be remade easily. I do sometimes feel a little bad when my favorites, like http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15335763, don't get sales. I want so share them with people!



What is a normal day like for you?



Get up at 5 a.m., get ready while checking convos and working up proofs, and leave before 7 a.m. I work until 4:30 or so, then come home and spend time with my family, who really DO rock. After my son goes to bed, I work on Etsy until 10 or 11. It's a busy, packed day!



What else interests you besides your craft?



I LOVE photography. Love. Love. Love. Did I say I love photography?



Is there something you would like to say as the end of the talk?



I love Etsy--and I am doing my best to buy only Etsy work Christmas--it's so worth it!

COFFEE MOCHA Lotion with HEMP SEED OIL is IN!!!!!

I have been thinking a lot lately is it OK to make Coffee Mocha Lotion. I know it smells good....who doesnt like a cup of freshly brewed mocha? Its so creamy and the aroma so rich, that it captures your senses and takes you away.

Soooo, I grabbed my tools and my oils and had to whip up something. The coffee aroma from the essential oil had me right away. I was laughing thinking how I just want to drink this. But - you would find me in the ER from lotion overdoze :-) The chocolate fragrance oil was so rich and dark in the scent, that I wished I had a bar of chocolate. But hey! If I cant eat that calorie-full-thing, then at least my nose is getting a whiff of the fat free thing, right?

Luckily for me...tee heeee....I had an ounse of leftover. So, guess what? Yeap, I am keeping it so I can use it on myself. I already put a little bit on my arm and I am in LOVE!!! Who needs real coffee anyways?

Well, not really. I DO need real coffee too. Maybe thats why I like this scent so much.



Yeap, that one above is mine!

:-)

HEADLINE: Chatting with earthandsunfolk, a shop on Etsy

What is your stores name and what do you sell (and anything else that you wanna share about it)?



earthandsunfolk ~ eco~friendly goods



How long have you been crafting for yourself before you decided to share your designs with other?



i've always been interested in some form of art. sewing is my main focus right now and i've been doing it for about 6 years.



Where do you get your inspiration?



nature..all the beautiful things around me!



Is there a funny story where you accidentally screwed something up, but it turned out better than you planned?


(can't think of one really! yes i have made my share of mistakes though!)







How do you see yourself down the road?


hopefully making a good living from my work...becoming more self sufficient and living off of our own land with my family.whatever the future holds for me, it will be happy.



Do you do this for fun or for serious business?


earthandsunfolk is a seriously fun business.



Do you ever get a creative block? If yes, how frustrating is it and how do you deal with that?


i do a lot...that's probably why i work on several different pieces at once. it helps to change things up a bit.



What is one favorite thing that you made and felt bad selling it - only because you liked it so much?


i usually want to keep most of my things, but i love that something my hands created falls into other hands that appreciate it!





What is a normal day like for you?


raising three girls and trying to keep the house from falling completely apart while i sqeeze in as much sewing and etsy time as i can....then a few hours sleep so i can start all over again!



What else interests you besides your craft?


live music...i love jambands and bluegrass and going to festivals with my family. we also love going up into the mountains and getting lost.


Is there something you would like to say as the end of the talk?


my favorite quote "My fault, my failure, is not in the passions I have, but in my lack of control of them."
~Jack Kerouac


www.earthandsunfolk.etsy.com

HEADLINE: Chatting with CILLA ROSE, a shop on Etsy

Q: What is your stores name and what do you sell (and anything else that you wanna share about it)?


My stores name is CILLA ROSE and I sell fashion fabulous stationery and home accessories.



Q: How long have you been crafting for yourself before you decided to share your designs with other?


I've been designing since high school{that I can remember}... except back then, I didn't realize it would be my passion.



Q: Where do you get your inspiration?



I know this sounds really cliche but I get it from just about everywhere.





Q: Is there a funny story where you accidentally screwed something up, but it turned out better than you planned?


Yes, we just bought a house and I was replacing the switch plates with newer version plates. I screwed one of them too tight and it cracked in half. Nonetheless... I now sell decorative swith plates in my store. Can you guess why???


Q: How do you see yourself down the road?


Down the road I'll be doing a "Grand Opening" for Cilla Rose. Can't wait...


Q: Do you do this for fun or for serious business?


You have to do what you love... and I love it. Isn't it great to get paid for doing what you love?





Q: What is one favorite thing that you made and felt bad selling it - only because you liked it so much?


I really hate selling my switch plates and wooden frames... they are adorable.


Q: What is a normal day like for you?


A normal day for me... what's norma? I have a full time job, two online stores, two sons, a husband, a dog and everything else in between. And then I do it again the next day.


Q: What else interests you besides your craft?


I live in a house with males {2 sons, a husband and a dog named Ace}. It's a girl thing!




http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15503241
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14874274
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14619931
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14804970