THE RAMBLINGS OF A STRUGGLING ARTIST ON LIFE WITH TWO TERRIERS, A PONY WITH ISSUES AND OTHER WILDLIFE AND BIRDS THAT CROSS OUR PATH

7 November 2013

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED AGAIN PLEASE

A - Snippet
It has been pointed out to me that underselling myself is not good for business and, having actually managed to make a small loss on the Christmas cards (my own stupid fault), I've decided to do some packs of cards that might sell all year round. Your input last time was invaluable and I'd really appreciate your help again if you could possibly spare a few minutes. 

There are three categories: Drawings, birds and more general photos. I'd really like to know which you think would make good cards in each category. I'm thinking of packs of five A6 cards of the same design with envelopes, which would pack easily into an A5 envelope and keep postage costs down to a minimum. Bear in mind, the square images would be cropped to a more oblong shape.

So........ 

Category 1: Drawings (including Snippet above)

B - Anemone

C - Northern Spotted Owl

D - Two for Joy

Category 2:  Birds

E - Stonechat

F - Blue Tit

G - Chaffinch

H - Magpie

Category 3: Photography

I - Stone Wall

J - Valley Shadows

K - Snowy Snippet

L - Meldon Hill (I think!)

M - Snippet's World

N - Snowy Stone Rows
These are in again for Pat at http://weaverofgrass.blogspot.co.uk/, I know she only wanted the sheep in the Christmas lot!
O - Snow Sheep

P - Middle Tor

Q - Rainbow Sheep

R - Layers

S - Lone Sheep

T - Rocky Snippet

If you have liked any other pictures in the past that you remember, do please suggest them. Trawling through hundreds of images took forever and I probably rejected ones I should have left in. Any ideas appreciated. My choices would be:

A - Snippet
C - Owl
D - Two for Joy
E - Stonechat
F - Blue Tit
I - Stone Wall
K - Snowy Snippet
N - Snowy Stone Rows
R - Layers

But I was completely wrong before!

Thanks so much in advance and until next time, here are Snippet and Jack today



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64 comments:

  1. Cait O'Connor7 November 2013 at 21:31

    Top favourite is Snowy Snippet, I adore this one. Hard to choose but I also love the owl, all the bird pics and rainbow sheep. I will look back at others in the past too,.

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:18

      Thanks Cait - I must find a pony one I think. The Owl is proving popular.

      Delete
  2. Kath7 November 2013 at 21:32

    oh look at that little face! of course I just love dogs, but I do like the snowy and rainbow sheep ones and the gap in the wall.

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    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:19

      He has that worried, furrowed brow that I thought he was going to grow into and it would stretch out.....that doesn't seem to be happening!

      Delete
  3. Anonymous7 November 2013 at 21:40

    Now, you know I love your sketches but I think for cards my favourites are - g, i, k l and n. Totally personal and I'm sure different people will have different favourites, so of I were you I think go with your own preferences unless there are some really clear common favs x

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:26

      Interestingly, and here I should be doing a bar chart I think, there are some clear favourites, so I'll go for those and choose a few myself depending on how they go. Thanks for your input! x

      Delete
  4. Jane and Chris7 November 2013 at 22:13

    A,C,D,E ,G,H. H brought tears to my eyes as I LOVE magpies.
    I,M,N,Q.
    There. That's my opinion.
    Jane x

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:26

      Funny how the Magpies split opinion so much!

      Delete
  5. Tom Stephenson7 November 2013 at 23:27

    A and M are my personal favourites, maybe Rainbow Sheep as a close third. You must remember that many people just hate Magpies, mainly for the way they rip apart nests in the Springtime and devour other bird's chicks. I don't, but some do.

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:27

      I'm not keen on them in the flesh but they're great to draw. People's opinions on them seem quite extreme!

      Delete
  6. rusty duck7 November 2013 at 23:35

    A,B,C,D,I,L,N,O,P,Q,R.

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:29

      Thanks Jess - very succinctly put and easy to transfer onto my tally sheet!

      Delete
  7. HappyK7 November 2013 at 23:57

    Though I like them all these are my favorites in each category.

    Category 1 D - Two for Joy
    Category 2 G - Chaffinch
    Category 3 Q - Rainbow Sheep

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  8. Cindy@NorthofWiarton8 November 2013 at 01:29

    A C I O & Q ; but A C & Q the best :), oh yes and always Snippet, and now Jack. x

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  9. Sue in Suffolk8 November 2013 at 09:09

    My favs are C.D.I.L.M.N.O.Q.S. Not sure why I'm not so keen on the bird photos - maybe it's because the birds are common everywhere, where as your beautiful Dartmoor photos are special as not everyon can see them

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:30

      I agree about the birds although I do like the Stonechat.

      Delete
  10. Anonymous8 November 2013 at 09:24

    All lovely pics Em which would all make super cards but I think my choices would be either C or D for Category One, E for Category 2 (I love Stonechats but rarely see them here), and I, N or R for Category 3 :-)

    PS. Are your Christmas cards still available as I haven't got around to ordering any yet ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:31

      The Christmas cards have all gone but if you want some I can get them printed in this batch. I'll contact you through your blog in case you don't read this. Does anybody?

      Delete
    2. Anonymous9 November 2013 at 11:24

      Thanks Em (I occasionally read the replies as this message will no doubt confirm!) :-)

      Delete
    3. Em Parkinson9 November 2013 at 16:32

      I'm very impressed! OnceI sort out ordering the rest, and our Christmas cards since the school have decided not to print the children's ones this year, I'll give you a shout.

      Delete
  11. SeagullSuzie8 November 2013 at 10:22

    Hi Em, I'm really sorry that you made a loss on the xmas cards, however we live and learn!
    Would really not select magpies at all and agree with Tom on that one-they are also seen as an ill omen so I would suggest avoiding.
    Cat 1 Drawings-I think Snippet is too personal, so B and C and you have a few sheep/lamb ones not included that might work (lost lamb?)
    Cat 3 Photography-I stone wall, K snowy snippet, O snow sheep.
    I hope that helps Em. I think you have some brilliant photos in posts not included here. Perhaps some of the ponies...I know it's very difficult!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:34

      Funnily enough, I sold a big print of the Magpie drawing recently which was a big surprise. Even though I'm not superstitious at all, the one for sorrow thing is so ingrained, I do feel a slight twinge when I see one alone. However, this has lessened since living here as I'd be a nervous wreck with the huge amounts I see!

      Delete
  12. John "By Stargoose And Hanglands"8 November 2013 at 11:36

    Surely there must be a market for doggy drawings or photos - lots of dog-lovers out there.

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    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 11:39

      I think people get very specific about the breed of their dog when buying cards John. I might take the risk and use them myself if they don't sell.

      Delete
  13. Ragged Robin8 November 2013 at 11:55

    Very difficult to choose between them as they are all so lovely. But would probably go for A Snippet, D 2 for Joy, F Blue Tit, G Chaffinch. I stone wall (superb photo!) as is Q Rainbow Sheep, 0 Snow Sheep L M the Hill one and K Snowy Snippet.

    So sorry you made loss on Cmas Cards - apologies for not ordering any (haven't really thought about Christmas as I just mentioned on CT's blog I am totally disorganised!!!) To be fair not having a good year (family commitments!).

    ReplyDelete
  14. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 13:00

    Thanks RR - I've just finished my Christmas shopping for people other than family so I'm feeling very smug....trying desperately to spread the cost!

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  15. Gail H. Ragsdale8 November 2013 at 14:09

    My two cents for what it's worth!
    In order of appearance:
    Snippet
    Northern Spotted Owl
    Two for Joy
    Chaffinch
    Magpie
    Meldon Hill
    Snippet's World
    Middle Tor
    Rainbow Sheep
    Layers
    Lone Sheep
    Pricing is hard! Everyone tells me I'm under priced but unless it's one of my graphite or charcoal horses I can't hardly give my art away! I get a lot of my cards on Zazzle and am pleased with the quality.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 14:43

      I thought that little Raven painting of yours I bought was very cheap. I absolutely love it. It's really hard because I would hate to be thought of as trying to rip people off! However, we have to remember the time it takes to do all the packing. posting, admin etc too. I'm useless. Iit's just nice that anyone wants to buy anything quite frankly!

      Delete
  16. Gail H. Ragsdale8 November 2013 at 14:13

    After reading some of the comments, I personally would buy Magpies as I an affinity with them. I almost bought the Magpie print instead of the Northern Spotted Owl, but it's on my list of things to get so maybe next time!

    Also think some of your pony photos would be great too. Many people have a fascination with the ponies living on the Moor.

    ReplyDelete
  17. The Weaver of Grass8 November 2013 at 15:47

    To be honest Em I love them all. I would certainly buy the sheepy ones and also the bird ones - particularly if they were for any day rather than just for Christmas. Could I send you a cheque for them as I don't deal (or know how to deal with anything like Paypal)/

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    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 19:04

      Of course you can. Those sheep will get printed whatever as I like them too!

      Delete
  18. The Weaver of Grass8 November 2013 at 15:47

    PS Em - you needn't post them off until the cheque had cleared! (after all you don't know me).

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  19. Down by the sea8 November 2013 at 19:04

    Hi Em,
    My favourites would be A, B,F, I,K,Q, P. I'm sorry you made a loss with your Christmas cards they look so professional.
    Sarah x

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson8 November 2013 at 19:07

      I only really did it to break even for followers but I forgot that Etsy take a cut afterwards as well as charging an insertion fee. I'll know better next time!

      Delete
  20. Elizabeth Musgrave8 November 2013 at 20:27

    I love the snowy sheep too and the stone walls. I agree that Snippet, though lovely, is very personal to you and I would go for landscape or birds. You have some great images!

    ReplyDelete
  21. DeniseinVA8 November 2013 at 20:32

    All of them are lovely and I'd be proud of any of them but as all our tastes are so different, this would be my five to pick.

    A-Snippet
    C-Northern Spotted Owl
    K-Snowy Snippet
    D-Two for Joy
    I-Stone Wall

    ReplyDelete
  22. Roy Norris8 November 2013 at 22:10

    Hi Em,
    Apologies in advance.

    Cat 1. Reject B.
    Cat 2. Reject all of them.
    Apart from E, you have filled the frame up too much with the subject and the quality of the image isn't good enough.
    Cat 3. Reject. J. M. R. S. T.
    R would have been good if you had got down much lower.

    Again sorry for being so blunt.
    Regards Roy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson9 November 2013 at 10:02

      Not at all Roy - that's why I asked. The only thing I disagree on is R, but since only two other people like it, my opinion is irrelevant!

      Delete
    2. Jopsy11 November 2013 at 21:50

      Everyone needs a follower like Roy :)

      Delete
  23. Wendy9 November 2013 at 14:02

    I love looking at all the pics and I must admit I'm sure what would sell or not - so I'll just give you my favourites which are A, C, E (love to see a Stonechat, I don't see them here), I, K (my favourite), L, P & Q.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson9 November 2013 at 16:33

      I think Snowy Snippet is going to be our Christmas card - thanks for your input Wendy, much appreciated.

      Delete
  24. The Weaver of Grass9 November 2013 at 14:12

    Re your query about the cupcakes in the candle shop - what the sign says I think is 'cup cakes no calories'!

    ReplyDelete
  25. The Three Muleteers9 November 2013 at 17:00

    Love them all but think my favourites for all year round are: D,H,I,J and Q.

    Em can you re-post the link for Xmas cards if you have any left as I'd like to buy some, never organised enough to plan too far in advance!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson9 November 2013 at 17:08

      The first vote for J!!! Not sharp enough when I looked at it in the cold light of day and only a Dartmoor resident would vote for it I think. Thanks Muleteers.

      Delete
  26. Morning's Minion10 November 2013 at 01:45

    I'm coming to this a bit belatedly, but will add my 2 cents. I used to buy single cards which appealed to me for their artistry, not always having a recipient in mind.
    I would choose Northern Spotted owl; Two for Joy; Magpie; Stonewall, Middle Tor; Rainbow Sheep; Layers.
    I didn't choose Snippet in any form--not because the drawings or photos lack appeal, but not being a 'dog person' I would likely only purchase a dog image with a particular person in mind, a dog lover [if that makes sense!]

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson10 November 2013 at 20:08

      Thanks MM. The owl is a firm favourite, particularly with those of you from the USA, it being one of your birds!

      Delete
  27. Spinners End Farm10 November 2013 at 16:52

    My favorite is the stone wall but I also love the snowy sheep. Tis the season for tupping!

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson10 November 2013 at 20:08

      It is indeed! Thanks for visiting and I'll be visiting you as soon as I've sorted the fire out.....

      Delete
  28. Bovey Belle11 November 2013 at 13:45

    Gosh, I am a landscape person so love them all (I, L, N, P, Q and R. But also C, D and G. My favourites are I and P.

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    1. Em Parkinson11 November 2013 at 13:55

      Thank you - there are six clear favourites, four of which are in your top lot.....time to print and see how it goes. x

      Delete
  29. thelma11 November 2013 at 15:31

    Late to the feast as always but, to be succinct, and in no particular order ...N,O,M,K,G,F,D,B,Q,
    As one of my interests is megaliths, I loved the stone row photo, 'themed packs' birds, ponies, tors and prehistoric stones, and a Snippet and Jack pack maybe ;)

    ReplyDelete
  30. Jopsy11 November 2013 at 21:48

    C I K xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson12 November 2013 at 10:00

      Thanks Jo. Loved your other comment too!

      Delete
    2. Em Parkinson12 November 2013 at 10:00

      PS - you'll be getting K as a Christmas card from me anyway. x

      Delete
  31. Lou Mary14 November 2013 at 12:14

    A bit late - must have missed this post somehow! If it isn't too late to vote.... my faves are:
    A, C, D, K, P, Q and R :) but they are all lovely! Sorry to hear you made a loss on the xmas cards. I am already thinking who to send mine to, obviously my favourite people!

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    Replies
    1. Em Parkinson15 November 2013 at 19:19

      Thanks Lou - really appreciate you taking the time to look at them.

      Delete

Thank you so much for leaving a comment. It's great to read them and I will always try to reply.

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