A CREATIVE 2008

My sister in law, a very creative an caring spirit, spent the week introducing me to Etsy. I have become addicted. I am amazed at how many creative people there are on the site selling their hand crafted items. And the best part so far is the supportive community, the ability to communicate with like minded people who love what they are doing.

I want to tell everyone I know, because almost everyone I know is creative and makes something beautiful. It doesnt' matter what level you are at. You can grow by learning from others.
I was an English major in college, my favorite period being Pre-Raphaelite and William Morris.
Dr. Wilbur Albrecht at Colgate University addicted me to the literature, art, and passion of the makers and followers of the movement. William Morris brought back the craftsperson, the one who puts their love and effort into making things. I am taking a pledge to buy all of my gifts this year on Etsy, to support the artists and craftspeople who are trying to make it work or just have fun. We need to return to the individual, the self-sufficiency we once had, instead of the mass production of discount stores.

Everyone, Creative! Let your mind open up to new ideas and new People!
Welcome 2008!

Getting Stores to pay

Hi All
This is my first blog ever, so I have alot to learn, especially the lingo.
I have been selling my clothing wholesale for 6 years to small boutiques. In the last two years, about 75% of the stores have delayed payment past the 30 day net period. I am finding myself spending more time on collecting funds than designing..and it has impacted my cash flow so much that I am only doing retail shows this year and selling on line to pay off the debt.

I do take credit cards, but even that is hard to collect...they only give me dribs and drabs.
Any advice?

My web site is www.alextex.com
I sell on Esty: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5243667

and www.smashingdarling.com/store/1657

Would love to hear your opinions and ideas!
Janetexcat