Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Etsy Tour – I Recommend It

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I attended the Etsy San Francisco Meet-Up last night and if there is one coming to your city I highly recommend you go! The Etsy people were all super nice, informative and enthusiastic about handmade and about their jobs.

I was SO JEALOUS of the tech people. Hey, I’m crafty but I’m a coder geek too. I spent my morning getting with WordPress MU and will spend my afternoon cutting fabric for my dress pattern. Maybe I’ve posted before about how much geeking and crafting resemble each other… if not maybe I will soon.

It was great to hear about other peoples Etsy experiences and then hear Esty’s feedback right away. It really makes a big difference for me since I kind of loathe forums and wading through a million pointless user responses.

I ended up having to bring my two year old and so I was kind of distracted, although, I have to say he was pretty good. Loud and squirmy… but good for a two year old!

Two things I wanted to say but was too distracted to get out:

1. I wish it was easier and less time consuming to upload pictures for a listing. Hook it up to Flickr? Allow multiple selections to upload at once? Something like Facebooks little java applet for photo albums?

2. Sub Categories – Whenever I am searching peoples shops I often am frustrated by the category sorting. I want a DRESS in MEDIUM. I don’t want to sort through 45 pages of small dresses.

I was happy to hear all the items that are high up on the Etsy’s development list and the possible new features. Shop rearranging is exciting and I liked the idea of a ‘Buy it Now’ widget for the Etsy Mini Shop’s and I might be willing to pay for that on a click by click basis.

Thanks Etsy peeps!

Check here for the tour schedule.

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Etsy Feature – Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building

Sometimes clay tools feel more like magic than equipment, and this Moth Pottery Template definitely falls into that category. One moment you’re working with a flat slab, and the next you’re holding a detailed, sculptural moth that looks like it could flutter right off your table.

Why This Template Caught My Eye

This design stands out because it combines structure with artistry. The template gives you the clean, symmetrical base of the moth form, but once you have that shape cut, the real fun begins—adding textures, underglazes, or even metallic accents to bring the wings to life.

It’s ideal for slab-builders who want to go beyond mugs and bowls and dive into more decorative or sculptural projects.

What Makes It Special

  • Unique Subject: How often do you see a pottery moth? It’s an instant conversation starter.

  • Sculptural Yet Simple: The template does the tricky work, leaving you free to decorate.

  • Wall Art or Table Décor: Finished moths look stunning hung on a wall, framed, or displayed on a shelf.

  • Room for Creativity: Paint with bright colors, earthy neutrals, or even metallics for different vibes.

Ideas for Makers

  • Use glossy glazes with shimmering metallic accents for a celestial-style moth.

  • Keep it natural and muted for a woodland-inspired look.

  • Make a series of moths in different colors and sizes for a gallery wall effect.

  • Turn smaller versions into pendants or ornaments.

Why Makers Will Love It

Templates like this are inspiring because they bridge the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. It’s not just about making something useful—it’s about making something memorable. And let’s be honest, it’s the kind of piece guests will immediately comment on when they spot it in your home.

You can grab it here: Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building on Etsy.

This spotlight is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates and tools that push creativity beyond the basics. If you’re ready for a project that feels both bold and whimsical, this moth template will absolutely deliver.

Crochet Pattern – Adorable Fluttering Moth Sprite Doll [Crochet]

DIY Moth Embroidery Pattern And Kit [Needle Work]