Accessories and jewelry from indie brands. Favorite places to shop? Stuff you wish you saw more?
>waiting for mossbadger to update like
Western indie:
>Voodooodolly
>Necrosarium
>LOTV
Honestly I buy more vintage accessories than indie, but I love vintage-inspired indie stuff.
Taobao:
>RedMaria
>DarkWhisper
I think DarkWhisper is gone now, though, which is a real shame. They had nice gothic/classic jewelry.
I'd like to see more mix metal/glass bead/faceted stuff, stuff like Schwartz Schmetterling. Not necessarily quite as OTT, but just that type of nice costume jewelry.
Favorites include Peppermint Fox, LOTV, and tournewsoul.
Tournewsoul is doing lucky packs this year and I kinda want to go for it but I'm saving for my dream dress too so yeah...it's so hard to save money during Christmas time. Wish more brands would do lucky packs though, they're pretty fun.
I want to see more things that aren't just assembled pieces from taobao or whatevs a or things that use actual original handmade molds
pls seagulls
Sauce on op pic?
Recently bought pic related from krukrustudio on etsy. They have a lot of unique bags/coin purses.
>>8765979
I got a Tour New Soul lucky pack last year and it was totally awesome, I'm definitely getting one this year
>>8765824
there's still some of her stuff on the lolita collective page http://store.lolitacollective.com/search?page=1&q=mossbadger
>>8766967
I legit bought the same coinpurse on Taobao last month. Can't trust these etsy people.
>>8767060
They've been on etsy for many years - the Taobao purse could likely be a knockoff of theirs...
>>8767045
Oh I know! I already bought a lucky pack from there haha. I was hoping mossbadger would make more portrait brooches. It's just frustrating because sometimes she announces a planned update ("I'll be updating the shop at 6 pm EST on this date!") and sometimes she just randomly uploads so I feel like I have to constantly refresh the shop.
>>8765802
Soo you wanna give some sauce on that OP?
>>8767040
Good to know anon, thanks! Its really tempting me...what did you get in your pack last year, if you don't mind me asking?
>>8767136
Wouldn't it be easier to make your own portrait brooches? I know some people prefer not to make their own stuff, and the ones in OP are really nice and polished, but these look pretty simple to make.
>>8765848
>DarkWhisper
This taobao store has a lot of similar (and a few identical) items.
https://r-vintage.world.taobao.com/search.htm?spm=a312a.7700824.w5002-634212929.1.aPkVZ3&search=y
>>8767136
Just send her a FB message. I did that before her last restock and she let me buy from her directly since I wanted a specific color item.
>>8768624
If I could find nice resin colorful portrait frames about that size, I would make my own! (minus resin coating because I can't work with resin to save my life.) But the only ones I can find pre-made are poor quality, whereas the mossbadger frames are pretty and well done.
>>8768755
hmmm will try this, thanks anon!
Is it okay to self post?
http://jellyultra.storenvy.com/
Thank you for anyone who takes a look! Also I'm completely open to con crit as well.
>>8769164
Your stuff is gorgeous!!
Not quite sure where to ask this but if I already own a lolita etsy shop and I want to make Jojo inspired jewellery, would it be weird to put it into a lolita shop or should I make something separate?
>>8769187
Depends on how you make the Jojo stuff? Will it still have a sort of fancy/lolita aesthetic?
>>8769219
I'd like to make it subtle and classy with colours and themes of characters rather than out right pictures of said characters so it may not be too weird looking in lolita I guess.
>>8769164
Please make another inky moth. I'd love to buy one but the one in-stock is poorly made.
>>8769066
Actually I have a few molds for those exact frames. Won't be casting again until after the new year though. You can contact me on my shop FB if you'd like.
http://creamyalamode.storenvy.com/
I really like a lot of the stuff in this shop, but most of what I'd like is sold out.
>>8769164
Do you make anything with silver colored fittings? I hate all yellow gold. But I like the glitter moth.
>>8769486
I like the hair on top.
>>8769171
Wow oh my gosh thank you !
>>8769411
I have definitely considered making more classic items. Obviously my favorite style is sweet but I want to have a little bit of everything for every girl. I table at conventions a lot and feel so bad when I hear girls say something along the lines of "Awww I love your stuff, but I only wear black." One of my favorite more classic themes is forest type items and mushrooms ! So that might be my next adventure.
>>8769463
Duly noted anon. I'll restock and try to create a better product. Is there anything is specific you think looks weird?
>>8769511
Yes of course ! I have both silver and gold fittings. I personally like gold more, so I'm a little biased when I assemble my jewelry. Feel free to contact me via my contact form on storenvy or [email protected] for custom requests. I would have to recreate the pendant since the gold bale is already fitted on the other one, but I would recreate the same look. I wouldn't charge extra and turn around time is about 1 week. I do have some silver fittings in my store, so you could take a look at the color. Both the "Shivering Star" necklaces have silver. Thank you so much for the comment!
>>8769472
do you have any pictures of the frames you made before?
>>8769472
>http://creamyalamode.storenvy.com/
Your pink fart necklace made me laugh anon, thank you.
>also really love you donut pin
>>8769604
If you made some foresty/mushroom stuff I'd be all over that!
i shop at thrifts stores for picture frames, and lace. not really sure what people would look for but i just pick up stuff that catches my eye.
>>8769164
your stuff is really cute! Im going to bookmark your storenvy.
>>8769486
Minus the hair, it's adorable
>>8769486
Ah I remember when this store first launched. I think a lot of gulls were comparing it to q-pot but obviously not as stupid expensive. I like a lot of their items too, I wonder why they've stopped making new stock.
>>8769618
If you check the FB page, I have a few in the last batch, but I'll need to take pictures of my others molds to show you the other styles.
>>8769472
Yooo
I bought from you at Kumoricon! You had amazing stuff!!
>>8769486
the hair on top is killing me
>>8769761
Ah no worries ! Its hard to explain but I did a clear top of resin with a black underneath. So in photos it can look a bit odd, especially when viewing the piece on an angle. Next time though I'm going to do a full black resin piece. However to do the glitter version it has to have the clear top to get the effect.
Thank you so much for the explanation
>>8769708
Thank you! I'll be back in a few weeks for NewCon.
>>8770511
Yeah, I'm not going, I don't trust the con anymore after being in the newcon thread
>>8770582
I'm a bit worried, but I already decided to go a while back. Worst case scenario, my friend and I still have fun in Portland.
>>8770955
That's a good way to look at it!
>>8769486
I own a number of items from this brand, none of them have hair on them but a couple had very minor flaws (dried glue strings which I pulled off, no big deal). I'm not even a sweet lolita but the jewelry is really cute! I think she mostly sells in-person at events, but maybe sending an email might encourage her to put more online?
I just ordered this. Restyle.pl seems to have a lot of lovely things, especially if you lean towards EGL.
This totally tickled my love of stained glass prints and Beauty & the Beast which kickstarted it all.
>>8771199
Also got these to match. There needs to be more cute stained glass stuff.
>>8771199
Wow, this is really lovely! Could you review it when it arrives?
>>8771370
I will! All of them.
>>8771372
The bag was 44 USD after shipping costs (but goddamn 62 in CAD because shitty exchange rate right now)
http://restyle.pl/product-eng-1201-Round-bag-CATHEDRAL-ROSETTE-stained-glass-Beauty-and-the-Beast-A4.html
Designed by Euflonica, who makes many lovely things.
Cabochons were fairly cheap. They have more styles than this one, I suggest searching stained glass on MLD if you want more!
http://www.my-lolita-dress.com/round-church-colorful-window-vintage-lolita-necklace-8-styles
The last one was extra cheap. I want to use it to make an accessory.
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MAZZ-0488-sprial-stained-glass-necklace-square-NECKLACE-glory-Windows-dallas-texas-necklace/32311336896.html
>>8771670
Sucks that you got fucked by the exchange rate, anon.
Thanks for the links, they have some cool stuff on there.
>>8769623
yes! me too me too!
>>8765824
This. I thought she was going to put more frames and rosettes up before Christmas. Anyone with Moss in their name takes forever to update apparently.
Mind another selfpost? >http://thefabledfawn.storenvy.com/
Some people were asking for mushroom/foresty accessories so heres what I've got! I've also got mushroom rosettes and earings that I made for a convention but haven't put in the online shop yet, if anyone wants a pic I can snap one really quick!
I'm also totally cool with any concrit anyone has to give! Thanks!
>>8775763
jesus sorry for the gigantic image size, I thought I clicked the smaller sized one
>>8775763
>http://thefabledfawn.storenvy.com/
The resin stuff is cute but I can't say I like your needle felted stuff at all. It looks really messy and unfinished. Maybe spend more time on each one making sure to tuck in the stray strands more or find a way to keep them down. For pictures at least, you can wet the felted thing to get it to look nicer.
>>8775763
Those choco hearts look more like wooden hearts to me anon, I think a better idea would be mimicking the texture of a mars bar if you've ever seen then? And like the other anon said, the felt stuff is just really messy. You might also wanna make the bow a bit neater, but the other stuff is cute!
>>8775763
I like the idea of the mushroom/forest stuff, but it's honestly difficult to tell what it is due to the messy material... especially when it's under the glass. It kind of looks like you're going for a mossy forest look but I think it would look nicer if the mushrooms were polished/finished/clean looking.
>>8775731
Calm down, they both have day jobs.
>>8777080
does anyone have any tips on how to make floral headbands like pic related. I've been making headbands for a while but mine never look as polished and are always a mess of wires from the back. I'm really looking to improve.
>>8777117
Can you post an image of yours/what you mean, anon? I don't quite understand.
The one in your pic will have been all glued together onto a felt base, which is then attached to the headband and covered (In this case with the crocheted lace, from the looks of it.)
Gluing everything does SOUND lazy and/or cheap, but it's honestly the best and cleanest way of doing things.
Any recs for headdresses? I need to amp up my hair/head accessories and world like to buy some hand made things
Just got my first red dress and thinking about buying this to go with it. Their fabric stuff is eh and I'm not into mori so I don't know about antlers but I like their jewelry a lot, the sweets stuff is nice.
etsy.com/shop/LolitaPopShop
>>8777157
Sweet Mildred on Etsy is p cool
>>8777238
though i gotta say, without my glasses on, pic related looked like a giant beetle headdress and i got really excited. while her stuff is diverse it's not quite THAT diverse...
>tfw no giant insect headdresses
>>8777239
>tfw no giant insect headdresses
Anon I love you, let's start making these.
any more?
>>8778467
I want to selfpost, but I only have a couple of resin brooches available until January.
>>8778475
Do it anyway anon! I'll follow you on your storenvy or etsy
They wouldn't fit in my wardrobe at all but I'm in love with these butterflies
>https://www.etsy.com/listing/216929039/blue-morpho-textile-butterfly-statement
Interesting purses
> https://www.etsy.com/shop/TitinaStore
>https://www.etsy.com/listing/191375645/carnival-cotton-candy-earrings-pastel
cute needle felted accessories
>https://www.etsy.com/listing/202044902/handmade-cat-brooch-needle-felted-ginger
Also I guess I'll give a few PSAs of some shops.
>https://www.etsy.com/shop/lepetitebonbon
I was recommended this shop from a friend but I later found out that the seller just glues rement figurines to jewelry findings. Which is okay if you dont want to hunt down the miniature yourself, but if handmade or artist made items are important to you I would avoid this shop. Otherwise the jewelry is pretty cute !
>>8778589
>the rement set the cake is from
>Nerdylittesecrets
If you search the archives for NGL you'll find an anons review about this shop. She received very poor items and I've heard from many others that she takes a dynasty to actually ship her items.
>https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/185847159/stackable-bracelet-oreo-whoopie-pie
>https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/111308230/unicorn-necklace-laser-cut-necklace
https://www.etsy.com/listing/200345620/twizzler-ring-kawaii-polymer-clay-charms
>>8778734
Yeah absolutely disgusting. I would have been so angered if thats how the items arrived to me, I probably would have started a PP claim. She also said the bow came dirty like that and the air bubbles were atrocious
>>8780651
It's cute, but it kind of looks like 'how many motifs can we jam onto one piece'? The colors don't look right together either. Too much going on.
>>8780705
Idk, I like it. It's got a really calm mori feel to it. It's a bit much for lolita though.
>>8780651
It just looks like dollar store stuff glued to a leaf. Too much going on and where exactly are you supposed to put it?
>>8780705
Moss, leaves, mushrooms and deer don't go together? I think this is an old Moss Marchen piece.
>>8781764
That doesn't mean it can't be an eyesore. Sometimes too much of a good thing can become a bad thing.
>>8769164
Yes please make more inky moth. I would really like one!
>>8781941
Are you even a lolita?
>>8783999
Are you mad that someone on the internet has a different opinion than you? It looks clashing, so what. Move on.
>>8784119
I'm glad I don't have such shit taste.
>>8784119
They just sound like a tacky brandwhore.
>B-b-but it's Moss Marchen!!!
>>8784167
Just because I'm a duck don't mean I aint kawaii.
>>8784191
What if my opinion is that your opinion is shit?
Not like I'm the OP, but damn girl, you thirsty.
>>8784216
Why are you this stupid, there should be laws against this or something.
Let's get this thread back on track.
Pic related is amazing and I want it.
>>8784330
Speaking of things that are tacky and jam too many motifs together.
>>8784167
Moss Marchen and Moss Badger aren't brands, their just girls who think too highly of themselves and make things only for their friends.
>>8784512
Poor baby, too slow to catch the updates?
Did anyone buy Dulcecalaveritas' bat bows? Are they worth theur money? I'm tempted to buy them for Holy Lantern.
More from Miss Danger. The hats on their etsy are exquisite.
>>8784512
Ah, yeah, only for their friends. Must be why they have shops open to the public. Get over yourself, salt-chan.
>>8784982
Just... make your own? It's just a piece of black pleather cut to look like a bat with a strip around it?
>>8784512
Salllllltttt. Mossbadger is dope idk what your problem is
>>8785026
Oh wow, these are beautiful! I wonder if she'll do custom designs too? I see custom colors on the preorder listing but nothing in the header/listings about custom designs...
>>8785035
What's with this attitude??
I have little free time and have zero ambitions to learn to make shit when I can easily pay people to do it for me. Hers aren't that expensive and I only need like 3 bows in different leathers. You can't buy a piece of pleather this small anyway; what am I supposed to do with the rest??
>>8769164
>http://jellyultra.storenvy.com/
would be cool if you had gurokawaii related merch
I feel like you'd like the Haenuli Stained Glass of Staint Giles JSK/OP/SK. http://haenulishop.livejournal.com/4489.html
Lately I've seen it on loli comm sales and lacemarket.
>>8785898
Did you mean to post this in this thread?
>>8765824
She said on instagram today that she's working on rosettes
>Kumacrafts said they were closing on December 14th until sometime in early 2016 because they were moving
>don't bother checking on their blog after my last purchase because they said they were closing for the month
>decide to look at the blog today
>they didn't close at all and had a 25% off everything sale December 25th-26th
god... damn it
>>8789536
Maybe an update in March then.
>>8769164
>http://jellyultra.storenvy.com/
Please make more Inkymoth, I love it
>>8790347
take your meds, paranoia-chan
>>8790322
we just want pretty accessories
>>8784508
Hah I think it is pretty the way it's arranged and the quality. But I agree I wish it had less going on.
So aside from Miss Danger, any secret sources for hats?
>>8784167
>2015/16
>calling someone a brandwhore
>>8785026
Damn, this is nice. I like the little pearls on the ends of the bow.
>>8784512
Yes, you're right! Must be why they have online shops. You know, so that nobody else can buy their stuff.
>>8793006
I want to argue because you're coming across a bit abrasive, but I actually sort of agree with you. For online shops, they very rarely have any stock available, which defeats the purpose of having a shop in the first place.
>>8793129
Why are you so entitled? Mossbadger has a day job and makes all her stuff alone. It's not like these guys are having china mass produce everything for them so they don't have to do anything but sell. Just watch the shop or social media for info about restocking and be a functioning adult with patience.
>>8792944
>>8793006
The reason mossbadger rarely has online stock is that she does make most of her stuff for her friends' on commission and for conventions. When she updates the shop, there will maybe be 10 things for sale, but when she goes to conventions she'll have at least 5x that.
>>8793141
I don't think people would be as annoyed if they would stick to their deadlines or at least have a good sized stock available when they do update. Saying she'll be "uploading stuff in the next week or two," then nothing for a month is frustrating. Or finally seeing them update but it's 5 things.
>tfw lots of indie shops are closed for the holiday season
I...I just want a new petti and a Peppermint Fox brooch pls ;-;
>C-can I selfpost too, senpai?
I'm putting these guys and a bunch of other brooches/pendants up.. Sometime this week. Maybe Thursday.
Seeing some of the fantastic photography in this thread is making me feel awful inadequate right about now.
>>8793809
I really want that one on the left.
>>8793809
yo anon if you make any ouji brooches in that style you might have a customer right here
>>8793809
I like this stuff, and from what I can see on your blog, that dock frock skirt is really cute. I kinda want it for a rockabilly marine look, but christmas has bled me dry for the time being.
>>8793809
These are really cute, can't wait til they're up
>>8793809
oh, I know your shop from the otome thread. there will be a dress with these cute girl flowers?
>>8793948
I really like that bunny JSK. Do you make them yourself?
>>8793948
>Anything in particular that you'd like to see?
i do not want to get your hopes up, since i am broke for another month or so, but a gothic blue rose-head ouji would be an immediate wishlist item.
>>8794409
Maybe! I'm definitely shifting focus to jewellery and accessories for the time being.
>>8795061
I do! I'm finishing up a Chai Latte/Blue one at this very moment, haha.
>>8795118
Ah! I wasn't entirely sure what you meant by Ouji - These guys in particular or just more masculine designs.
I'm definitely doing boy versions and more flower types! There's no reason I can't do blue roses at some point.
>Design Oujia Board and Planchette brooches.
>Large, separate boards and planchettes and smaller board + planchette dangle combo.
>Also in pendant forms.
>Feelin' pretty happy with these designs, bro!
>Decide to check out some of the other stores mentioned in this thread.
>MossBadger also does boards and planchettes.
Fuuuuuck.
>>8797437
a lot of people use ouija* boards and planchettes in their designs. you can get premade resin ones off of taobao/Ali Expeess. if you are doing it in a way others are not, go for it.
*please spell it correctly. for the sake of oujis everywhere, please place your "i" BEFORE the "j" so we do not get weird search results when looking for ouji shit.
>>8797437
No need for fuuuuuuck, mossbadger doesn't restock regularly at all, so the market's open for them.
>>8797444
Ah, that was just a typo. The designs already have 'ouija' written on them; No need to worry.
>>8797967
One thing that I'm particularly paranoid about is having someone say "But you just stole that idea from XYZ!", haha. I probably should have actually looked at other related accessories before I did them, but seeing how common the theme is now it's all good.
They're hand drawn and cut/domed as opposed to the more common laser-cut acrylic, anyway.
>>8798667
i am paranoid about that as well with my own designs (i do mostly beadwork, chains, cameos, etc.), and other creativity. i think most artists fear being accused of copying.
would be interested to see your work when you are ready to share.
>>8798800
Especially when you're a catering to such a niche group, it really does feel like everything has already been done once!
Here's a quick phone snap of the dangle brooches. I need to drill one out and try a pendant before I put them up for sale!
>>8799479
They're cute but I feel like the attachments make them look cheap
>>8799546
not that anon but it is difficult to find sturdy black jumprings (and head/eye pins) that will not lose the black finish when bent or unbent. i also think the silver jumprings look fine; if matching is an issue, don't they go with the silver on the ouija boards and planchettes?
>>8799880
for comparison, here's a mossbadger one with unmatching beads and chain. (blue/black board, crystal/bronze chain).
>>8799880
I think the size is more of an issue than color
I'm looking to buy a tiny drill for jewelry making, any recommendations?
>>8800034
Look for a "drill press". I can't remember the brand, but we used one in my jewelry making class back in hs. It had a clamp to hold the piece and a lever to lower the drill bit. Using a hand held drill might be dangerous with small objects.
>>8800034
I use a Dremel. Get attachments for drilling, buffing, and sanding. I use the course sander on my dogs nails for smooth nails.
>>8798667
>>8798800
Same here. I'm getting tired of some of the hivemind mentality within the lolita community when it comes to 'copying'. I'm not talking about direct replicas, but buying accessories with a similar theme. In such a niche fashion, certain ideas are bound to overlap. Sometimes it seems as if lolitas are a bit too quick to point the finger if someone happens to release something even slightly similar to someone else's (see Mulberry Chronicles vs Peppermint Fox). I once got accused of copying another indie brand's rosary design simply because I sold "gothic" rosaries in my shop. The necklaces I sold looked nothing like theirs (aside from basic rosary assembly), but because that indie brand is already popular for rosaries apparently no other shop can make them... It made me a little paranoid about what I release since that incident as well, but also made me grow a thicker skin about critics at the same time. People are still buying my creations, so something must be going right.
My advice is to just go for it if you have an idea, if you've made something you enjoy share it. Researching what other brands are currently doing is helpful so there isn't too much design overlap, but don't let paranoia keep you from putting your designs out there.
>>8799479
The jump rings need to be smaller, these make them look clunky. How big are these, btw?
>>8800445
I don't think that's just lolita (cosplay and fanart are other frequent victims of 'You copied xxx because you drew/cosplayed as y! I'm telling!' attacks) and it seems to be mostly tweens and young teens who are quick to spew shit about everything. Ironically, they don't seem to notice the 30000 Etsy listings for 'unique handmade OOAK' items that happen to look exactly the same. I guess it's only plagiarism if you're not buying it wholesale from China.
>>8799479
These are cute, but I hate the fact the hole is drilled into the goodbye. I personally wouldn't buy for that reason alone.
>>8800445
The Mulberry Chronicles vs Peppermint Fox situation was pretty stupid since while they both aim for the same market and might have similarities in colors and all, they do different designs. Reminds me of the time when a bunch of lolitas went crazy when a Taobao indie brand made a cat themed tea party print and called it a replica/copying AP cause they made Cat's tea party therefore no one can do something similar. Sadly the print was no longer made into a dress which made me sad since I liked it a lot.
Also I love Peppermint Fox's animal brooches but I wish they made them in brighter colors like in pastels but with the same style and look of the animals.
>>8777238
Her customer service leaves a lot to be desired, won't be ordering from her again which is unfortunate given she seems to have produced some nice things.
>>8781953
Aw thanks anon! Since this thread I've been working on more moths
>>8785026
How have I never heard of Miss Danger... Her items look absolutely stunning.
>>8769920
What resin do you use?
>>8801689
> that pink moth
I hope you do a few of them moths cause I really want that pink moth even though nothing in sweet lolita matches expect the color. Looks pretty nice though!
>>8793809
Can I ask you what glaze you used to get them so lovely and shiny?
>>8801689
Have you thought of selling these as pins or charms? I would love one
>>8799886
Maybe it's my monitor but the chain looks gunmetal to me, not bronze.
>>8799479
I remember a while ago someone tried to start drama because some indie brand was making rosettes and accused them of copying Moss Badger. MB ended up commenting pretty graciously about it saying she didn't invent rosettes and that people should calm down about it. She didn't invent ouija boards either and yours look different anyhow so I don't think you should avoid making things with the same theme.
Is there/was there a doc of indie accessory shops?
>>8799531
>>8799546
>>8800846
>>8801597
Thanks for the feedback, guys!
They're about 4cm wide (the board) and 6.5 long (w/ rings.)
The jump rings are 6mm - So 'standard' size, although I'll definitely grab some 5mm ones and see how they look instead!
These were actually the product of an accident, haha. They were initially only meant to be separates, but my printer messed up the scaling and they came out much too small, so I tried putting them together. If/when I make more, I'll definitely account for where the drill holes will be so that they don't through the print.
I'll try some stuff out and come back with hopefully improved versions soon~
Does anyone know of a shop where they have cute and well made fimo/clay/resin cake charms or something similar? My friend got pic related for her birthday and my search has been full of regresty stuff.
Also what indie brand or shop sells good wristcuffs?
>>8801868
I've tried both Easy Cast and Envirotex lite because they are what I have in my area. I prefer Envirotex.
>>8801946
Aw thanks anon! I do plan on doing more in the future of pastel colors. Like pink, sax, and lavender. I like experimenting with doing traditionally non-sweet themes and turning them sweet. But not to the same point as creepy-cute if that makes sense? Definitely agree about the them not matching anything though haha, maybe more appropriate for casual j-fash.
>>8801980
I have definitely thought about pin backs for these ! Since I've been making so many, I will definitely delve into trying it out.
>>8802737
Peacockalorum has good wrist cuffs. Not sure about cake though.
>>8801641
Agreed. I love both shops - to me, the more the merrier! Yeah, I remember that Taobao cat tea party fiasco on Lolita Updates. Shame it never made it to production.
Another instance I can think of was back when madonna crowns were at the height of their popularity and more people started selling them, the designer of Maroonsparrow made a post bawwing about how they 'did it first' and shamed other shops for making knockoffs of their crowns. But actually, madonna crowns have been in circulation for a long time in avant garde/runway fashion. Just because you market it to lolita fashion does not make it new or make it your sole idea. The designer ended up looking like a bit of a twat, honestly.
>make dark/gothic jewelry
>do well at cons, but usually sell out of sweeter designs fast
>decide to up my kawaii game and make more cute things
>realize i am not sure i understand "sweet" as a substyle
pic related, two simple experiments (necklace and brooch). concrit welcome; i am not sure whether they fit within the parameters of sweet lolita or if i ought to categorize them under general kawaii/feminine jewelry.
excuse the 3am cellphone pic quality.
>>8802984
That would be the case if the crowns that everyone else made looked like they were inspired by runway fashion, but instead they all look identical in design to original design, so you can't really say they were inspired by high fashion, can you?
>>8804438
The taiyaki doesn't really match anything in sweet lolita expect food wise prints (most are just desserts like cakes, donuts, etc) but I would totally that that off you right now!
The rose is a bit more sweet and I like the way it looks honestly, it's very pretty. I think when I hear sweet style accessories, I see more of desserts, bears, stuffed animals, ponies, that have bright pastel colors and bows, lots and lots of bows.
>>8804451
Maybe it's just me but I wouldn't consider that design original. There were some secrets about it, and I distinctly remember people mentioning that the brand Apatico made those crowns even before MS, so it was wrong for MS to state that hers were original. Also, this was a while back but remember Candy Violet's chemise rant? It was about how she spent "years and years" designing a chemise gown (which had no unique design details that set it apart from a basic chemise), upset when someone else began selling gowns? Chemise gowns are not original property, sorry.
At the end of the day, there's room for everyone in a niche fashion, but I think it becomes callous when lolitas try to point the finger at others for copying designs that were not original or copyrighted in the first place. Lolitas have a great sense of brand loyalty, and will continue to buy from whichever shops they trust to make good products. Even if someone else sells something similar, if the indie releases good, high-quality products people will continue to support that brand.
>>8804438
The Taiyaki is very cute and quirky! but like the other anon said it is an unusual motif for a sweet piece of jewellery. (If you gave the little fish a pink/blue bow on its head and tied a pink/blue bow somewhere on the necklace it would make for a pretty funny piece)
The brooch I think is bordering on classic rather than sweet. If the roses were red and the links were gold I would buy it in a heartbeat. Lovely work, do you have a shop?
>>8804438
I think the taiyaki would work as a general jfash accessory but it doesn't really fit in with lolita. Until Meta inevitably releases a taiyaki print or something. The rose is cute though, and would work with quite a few dresses. Sweet jewellery is usually pastel-toned doughnuts and biscuits and cupcakes, so this is at least different enough to stand out.
>>8804452
>>8804494
>>8804981
thank you for the thoughtful feedback, anons! i will keep experimenting and upload the results soon.
for the anon who asked, i have a few things up at my new shop (ghastlygear.etsy.com), but nothing like those items yet. i am only now cautiously moving away from traditional gothic color schemes and motifs.
Mossbadger posted this with a "sorry for being slow" but still no date for when she will have things ready.
>>8809043
Am I the only one who doesn't like those Ouija board accessories? They look cheap and nasty.
>>8809217
no, but in my case i do not think they are any worse than any other resin accessory. they are just not my style.
>>8809217
I don't care about the ouija boards but I'm excited for more of those little framed portraits.
>>8809217
Yeah, 7 billion people living on earth and you are the ONLY one who doesn't like those Ouija board accessories
>>8809217
I like the concept of them, especially in different colors, but all the ones I've seen worn just look strange.
>>8793809
These guys are finally up! And everything is 20% off for the rest of January.
>Finally get cohesive photos of every item.
>They're shit.
I'm going to borrow a proper camera tomorrow to take more and replace them ASAP.
>>8801965
It's just a resin glaze/dome!
>>8809662
Derp. They're up on Hellobonesjones.com, that is.
>>8809662
just bought two little birds! Great work!!
>>8809662
Just got the birds and them together! It's really adorable in the pictures!
>>8809682
>>8809717
Ah! Thank you both so much!
I'll ship them out ASAP tomorrow afternoon!
>>8809662
Do you take commissions? I need one of the flowers girls as hydrangeas. For butterflies and hydrangeas.
>>8810130
I most certainly can! If you don't have any issues with me continuing to sell the design, it'd be the same sale price as the rest, too.
>>8810381
That would be super amazing! This is the colourway I have. It's really hard finding anything to match the dusty pink and purple. Your art is so cute!
>>8809261
How hard are you sucking on her mossbadger
>>8810418
They clearly are saying there are plenty of people who don't like the ouijas, the opposite of what you think. I'm sorry you are too stupid to understand that or to make a comment that makes any sense.
>>8769604
I'm really loving inky moth! My only nitpick is the golden detail, the lines could stand to be cleaner, but I'm sure it's not very noticeable in person.
Saving you from page 9!
>>8809662
How do you do the resin glaze dome thing? And what's the base material? I'm asking because I have a few of my own illustrations I'd like to create into jewelry for my coords
>>8814251
Not that anon but I found this
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrVj4JSpPzI
Might be helpful
>>8814272
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrVj4JSpPzI
>Might be helpful
thank you so much! I've always wondered this especially with irregular non-round shapes. when i tried to search I ended up with pre-made round domes or silicone molds
>>8814515
Glad I could help. I want to make brooches and stuff too just as a way to keep myself busy so I've been looking into it a bit myself. No idea how to make the base though.
>>8809255
I'm also not that into the ouija boards but these look cute as hell.
>>8814638
Who made these?
>>8814856
read the thread you dingdong
>>8814638
Does she cast the frames herself or are they bought from somewhere? I wonder if she could make ones with custom images inside but if they're premade I might as well do it myself. I like how detailed hers are.
>>8815903
She casts the frames herself, but I have seen the molds she uses available for sale, along with made-in-China frames from those same molds for sale. I have a few of her frame brooches and the frames are much higher in quality than the ones you can find pre-made from China.
I'm sure if you contact her she might be able to do some sort of commission? Either that or have a look on ebay for miniature frames and get some brooch backs to glue on them.
>>8810398
>>8810952
Ah! I didn't get a chance to do them before the weekend, but I'll dome them tonight and will have 10 of each in-store tomorrow!
>Phone camera colours are inaccurate.
>>8817371
These are so precious.
>>8814638
Where did she post these?
>>8809662
Do you take commissions on your little flower girls?
>>8819586
read the thread, anon.
>>8809662
Bought a flower girl and a bird. Can't wait!
>>8819500
On her personal fb. She posted today that she is having an allergic reaction to resin so she's worried she can't finish things she was working on.
>>8819747
>allergic reaction to resin so she's worried she can't finish things she was working on.
Uh oh. Developing an allergic reaction to resin when it's essential to your business is definitely not good. Has she been working with it without using 100% safety precautions, I wonder? You're more likely to develop a sensitivity if you have a significant amount of resin skin contact/unvented fumes in the past.
>>8819586
I do! I just made those ones because of a suggestion/request in this thread!
>And then I've gotten super busy, but they'll DEFINITELY be up tonight, damn it.
What kind of flower/s would you like to see?
>>8819732
Thank you so much, anon! I'll try to post them out this afternoon!
>>8819808
Oh man, getting mixed resin on my arm once was enough to start being super neurotic about it.
That sounds awful.
>>8819964
Thank you for shipping so fast! I convinced my friend to buy too!
>>8819964
I'm the one who got the twin birds and the oujia charm :) I'm happy that you're getting business! Really excited for my stuff~ I've linked my friend to you as well!
>>8820948
>>8820972
Thank you guys! Referrals and reviews really are the best thing for new stores.
>>8817371
>>8810398
Aaaand these two are finally up!
>>8822515
Awww anon these are so cute !! I wasn't the requester but I love your style < 3
>>8822515
I bought more. Sorry since you had just shipped the others I bought yesterday. A bunny and a hydrangea because they are too cute.
>>8819964
>What kind of flower/s would you like to see?
The Red Spider Lily/Lycoris Radiata
>>8819964
this would be hilarious and fun
>>8785035
Yeah, and then get done in for making a replica of someone else's work, even though it's just for yourself.
>>8822748
And then half of the comm falls down screaming about trypophobia when you wear it. Excellent.
>>8822804
>And then half of the comm falls down screaming about trypophobia when you wear it. Excellent
I can see this totally happening.
And t.b.h that flower close up looks pretty creepy looking but maybe as a flower child brooch that the anon above does? I think it could work but still, some flowers do look kinda creepy.
>>8822757
people really aren't that paranoid, especially for a "design" as generic as that.
How do you guys feel towards indie designers that do not make their own cabochons but order from a supplier or purchace from another fellow designer? Like if someone were to use cabochons for cellphone cases/other accessories?
>>8822955
I'm not sure what you mean, anon?
Do you mean buying pre-made cabochon frames instead of making your own from molds?
Or buying entirely made cabochons (Frames with images already set into them) and using them in larger projects?
>>8819808
Seems like she took precautions, hopefully she can put stuff for sale soon.
>>8823127
cabochons are the flatback components that are set into frames, trays, bezels, etc.
surprised nobody has mentioned this here yet
>>8822955
I feel like it depends on your price point. I don't mind buying things made from premade stuff if it isn't too expensive - otherwise I am crafty enough to buy the parts and do it myself. But if your prices are low and the item is cute, I will buy it because I am lazy and don't have that much free time for crafting. I often see indie designers using components from Taobao etc. and it doesn't bother me unless prices are really high or the work looks shoddy. Also obviously don't claim you made it completely from scratch if you didn't.
>>8823230
i will be participating in the bloodbath
(prayer circle for MTO)
>>8823127
What i mean is buying already made cabochons (like from rockin resin/delish beads/etc) and putting them on to a project that you sell. Not buying premade molds.
My current living situaton doesn't allow me to have space dedicated to resin making. D:
Not sure if I should ask this here or the AA thread but I figure I'd give it a shot. For those of you with online shops, what licenses/permits/whatever do you have/need to legally operate your business? I've been looking into opening my own etsy shop and I'm finding conflicting information as to what I need to do before hand. Any help would be great, thank you!
>>8823446
where do you live? i needed a state tax permit in the US.
>>8823450
I live in the US too. Is state a factor as well and was the tax permit all you needed?
>>8823453
i think so, but yes, state will be a factor. your state should have a website with info for starting a small business. the most important thing is to make sure you pay your sales tax on items you sell.
i had to buy a sales and use permit to legally operate, which i am supposed to display at conventions. i usually keep it in my cash box without issue.
>>8823461
I'm looking into the permit right now. Seems I also need to get an employer identification number. Thanks for your help. Time to deal with the government.
>>8823465
you might be able to use your social security number instead, as long as it's a single-person business.
you are welcome and good luck!
>>8823468
That would be awesome since it'll just be me selling little paintings and such. Though I know NY tends to be more strict on a lot of stuff so I'll double check on that.
>>8804438
Thanks for all who gave feedback. I began a "Teatime and Roses" section on my shop (ghastlygear.etsy.com) where designs like the lavender brooch will be placed. I will add antique bronze-tone versions soon, and some non-teacup gold versions.
Sadly the taiyaki necklace is not ready. I used sections of pre-made pearl chain to keep the cost down, but in natural light the eye pins connecting the pearls are an unusual shade of gold that is impossible to match with a chain (too warm for cool gold tone, too pink for warm gold tone, not pink enough for rose gold tone). Additionally, the metal is strangely soft and easily deformed. I will be starting over with that design using a better quality material. To be continued!
>>8823230
Who is Automatic Honey anyway? Are they a team of people that seriously handmake everything? Their work is very professional (like looks like it is not handmade at home) so I honstly assumed that they were a like big brand rather than your typical indie designer that makes things at home (where you can guess what method was used to make their product)
that also has a day job.
I'm a big fan of theirs and really look up to everything that they do. Very inspiring.
>>8823712
From I know its just two people. Someone I talked to at ruffle was saying how they basically shut themselves away for most of the month and hand make all the chains and stuff.
>>8823752
that's super doubtful. stuff is far too uniform for that. not to say one person couldn't do it, but you have to have more than one or two doing it.
>>8823757
It's definitely 2 main designers at least. I've met them a couple times and I do wonder how they do things.
