USPS is introducing new HazMat fees and stricter enforcement, including a $50 non-compliance penalty. Learn which products qualify, how to avoid costly mistakes, and stay compliant. Artisans who make perfumes and fragrances beware! Read more here.
Mary Strope's Posts (55)
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A-Corp is a new limited liability legal structure that helps creative people keep control, protect their work, share ownership with collaborators, and raise support without giving away the art. Now law in Colorado. First formations expected in early 2027. Read about it here.
Here's something to keep in your files! A comprehensive guide of online sales possibilities compiled by our friend Artsy Shark! Look here.
Effective immediately, businesses are no longer required to sign a Brand Control Agreement (BCA) in order to purchase Swarovski Crystals and HARMAN is authorized to sell Swarovski Crystals to a broader range of customers, including resellers and retail businesses. Check out their website for more info. https://www.harmanbeads.com/
Meta launched low cost subscription plans for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Read more here.
We’re celebrating Pride Month by highlighting seven incredible LGBTQ+ makers and their work. From growing their own skills to building crafting communities that make new faces and fresh perspectives feel welcome, we can’t wait to see what these makers do next. Continue reading here.
Looking for a community of papermakers in the Chicago area? Need space and supplies for papermaking? Check out this article from our friends at Craft Industry Alliance.
Etsy reveals it's Spring/Summer Trend forecast. Read about it here
The landscape for independent fabric retailers in the US has shifted dramatically in the past year. Between new and ever-changing tariffs, the end of de minimis shipping exemptions, and the closure of major chains like Joann’s, small shops are navigating real sourcing challenges — while also fielding growing demand from customers who suddenly have nowhere else to go. Neighborhood craft stores and quilt shops are fielding more requests for garment-quality fabrics than ever. Adding even a curated selection of garment fabrics isn’t just a response to demand—it's an opportunity to broaden your audience, attract a whole new category of maker, and give existing customers more reasons to shop with you. Read more here.
On July 19-19, 2026, the American Craft Council will launch National Craft Open Studios Weekend, a first-of-its-kind, nationwide celebration inviting the public into the creative spaces of more than 1,500 craft artists across the country. To learn more and participate, click here.
Before you raise your prices, watch this video first. From our friends at Artsyshark.
The United States Mint is seeking professional artists to join the AIP via a Call for Artists. The AIP is a pool of talented American artists who enrich and invigorate our Nation's coins and medals by developing specialized designs. Learn more here.
Etsy is the home for human creativity online, and we have an important role in shaping what the future of shopping can and should look like. That’s why we’re engaging early with trusted partners to help build systems that amplify rather than replace the human touch of our 5 million+ sellers, enabling them to connect more seamlessly with shoppers looking for unique, meaningful items. Today, we’re excited to announce our partnership with Stripe and Microsoft, helping us take another meaningful step toward that goal. Read more
Artsy Shark is accepting applications for artists to become a Featured Artist on their site. Selected artists receive extensive marketing to the over 100,000 art buyers and industry professionals who frequent their site. A pdf of your feature is provided so you can send it out too! Don't miss this opportunity! Apply NOW! Click for the details.
Another interesting read from Artsy Shark, aka Carolyn Edlund. Carolyn writes about the 2025 market and how to evaluate your year. Take heart. It's not you, it's the market! Read it here.
Instagram will limit the number of hashtags you use to only five. Read about it here.
Several craft supply companies are cautiously optimistic about the 2026 market. Read about it here.
From ARTnews.com. Although this is more for gallery artists, it's still interesting to read the 2026 predictions from major galleries worldwide. Some are predicting a return to classic art and master artists. Read it here. What do you think?
Enjoy this PBS special with the latest edition featuring a quilt artist, silversmith, weaver, and more.
If you were holding your breath waiting for the Color of the Year announcement, it's here! Well, actually, there are three Colors of the Year.
How will these colors influence your work?
