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I'm Jealous...but what about a conflict of interest.
I would love to be on a design team. I don't think I'm necessarily at that level, but I also sometimes feel like if I could spend copious amounts of money on anything I needed, then maybe I could be. But what kind of irks me is that there are so many people out there who are designing for more than just one company. I feel like "Yes, you are good. You are designing for Company A, so please give some others a chance at desgning for Company B." Especially when they are designing for 3 or 4 companies! I am completely and utterly jealous. So for you out there on the design teams, designing for multiple companies...you know what...You are amazing! You're cards, pages and other items are great. I guess I just wish that a company would see my stuff and be like, wow, she does really good for not spending much money and not owning every copic marker and prima and ribbon and latest stamps and paper and embellies known to man.
__________________ Kelli ~ "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." Proverbs 16:24 My blog ~ My Gallery 2018 Scrap Goal 8/12
i sometimes feel that way.. i would love to design for some of those companies out there, but i can't afford their stamps. period.. and... i'm a single mother with a full time teaching position, PLUS i direct a community choir, PLUS i teach at my LSS, PLUS i teach private voice and piano lessons on the side.
i think some of these people that are on multiple design teams have the TIME to design...for the teams.. if i had one job (not a high school music teacher...) and was married/had a partner (to take some of the parenting load), i would maybe have more time to dedicate to this craft, but what i've had to tell myself is: my passion is my amazing job, and my students, and my darling little boy, it's NOT about getting on design teams, and getting 100, 000 blog hits, cause in the grand scheme of things where is getting on a design team on the list of priorities in MY LIFE? it's not up there, so i can't worry about it..
heck.. i don't even have time to apply for most of them!
__________________
{Gallery}{Blog}
I design for: Stampendous!, There She Goes, Technique Tuesday,
SRM Stickers and Deconstructed Sketches.
I completely agree - and I think it's a bit odd when you read their blogs and they're gushing about how awesome all 3-4 different companies are. But then again, I guess companies like having "big names" as one of their representatives.
I actually am on a design team for a small company, and I can't imagine doing any other design work. I'm a SAHM with two young kids and also involved in a number of community things, and there are only so many minutes to go around :mrgreen:
Well, I know the ones that I see on design teams, their work is awesome. But I dont know much about how it all works...LOL! do the companies come to them? Do they submit? I have seen a few for guest designers that want you to submit...whats in it for the person besides getting to say you are on a design team? do they get compensated in some way?
The way I feel, well, I LOVE making cards. I know that I have made someones day alot of times by giving them a handmade card...and even though one day I too would love to be on a design team, THAT is THE best part to me, well 2 things really, (1)I enjoy doing this and (2) I make someone smile and brighten there day!
Design teams vary by the company - some approach designers that they know and see already using their product in a way that would draw other customers. Others have design team calls, with some form of application process. I think in general, most companies at least offer free product in exchange for a pre-determined amount of cards/projects. Others may offer other incentives.
If you're interested in design teams, put your work out there. If you purchase stamps from a company, make a few cards and send pictures their way as a thank you for producing great stamps...then casually offer your services if they are ever in need of design work or samples for their gallery.
I'm on three DT's, I submitted for all three because I LOVE all three. As you can see, I'm not a big name, lol! If I gush about the companies I design for, it's because I love the products and want the world to know, lol! Alot of people may not understand what motivates someone to submit for a DT but I can tell you that for me, it's because I love the company, want to be a part of the industry I love, and a lil discount sure doesn't hurt the purse;) While I can understand questions about the bennies, or how one gets accepted on a DT, I don't really understand the apparent jealousy, as the op put it. There are SO many wonderful companies out there, SO many opportunities to throw your name in the hat. If it's not your "thing", great! I'm so happy that you enjoy making and sending cards, because after all that's what this hobby is all about But please don't criticize or belittle those of us who work hard at achieving something we've wanted and practiced for for so long, kwim? I probably DO have alot more time on my hands than most of you. I am married but have no kids. I work full time, as does my DH. Pretty soon, I'll have even more time on my hands because my DH is deploying (next week). Please know that this is not meant to be inflammatory. I only want to understand more why it is people tend to "gang up" on dt members?
I don't have any great advice for getting on a design team - other than to not take it personally that you are not. It's hard to know what a company is thinking or looking for and the best thing you can do is just be yourself and stay true to you and your style. I do find it frustrating to see multiple companies choosing the same designers over and over again. Everything starts to look the same and it becomes so difficult to find a fresh new look. I admire the work of many designers, but my belief in their sincerity wanes when they do gush over a bunch of companies at once. I know if I ever make it on a design team that will be it for me - I would expect product loyalty and am fully prepared to offer it - but that may be a detriment. I just don't know, but it is what I feel is right. I've often become very frustrated and wished that companies would find more value in the "little" people that have great work, but aren't necessarily famous. Granted I am biased on that opinion but in some cases - it's those people who put their heart into their work and they are not just looking for free stuff and more notariety. I wish companies could see the value in a wide variety of styles to reflect the many ways their product can be used instead of choosing the same people who produce the same work over and over. I've only been stamping for about three years now - but lately it's becoming harder and harder to identify a company by a sample or product - now they all look alike and could be anybody. I think too much gets sacrificed when you go after the big name designers..but again...I'm just a little biased there..lol..
A lot comes down to motivation for me - there are some designers who are trying to make a name for themselves in the crafting world, and they're good and deserving of that, so - good for them if that's what they want to do, and if they feel they can offer the same high quality they originally offered the first team when they take on more responsibilities. For me.......
I know my limits and what I can handle. 2 teams is plenty for me right now, and I also design for another company's gallery that doesn't have a team - but that is completely voluntary (and welcomed). I also know that when my motivation goes from "love of the company/product" to the benefits, it's time to move on, and I've done that too.
Anyway, that's a soapbox of mine - whole 'nother thread on it here:
I completely understand how someone can design for multiple companies..... Everyone has favorites as far as stamp companies go and for myself I couldn't even narrow it down to just three. I don't begrudge any designer in designing cards for a variety of stamp companies, if you love the stamps/company, why not?
My hat is off to you designers!
As for the OP, find a favorite company or a few and try out when they have a design team call. It can't hurt to try at all and one day what you design may/will be what they are looking for.
While I can understand questions about the bennies, or how one gets accepted on a DT, I don't really understand the apparent jealousy, as the op put it. But please don't criticize or belittle those of us who work hard at achieving something we've wanted and practiced for for so long, kwim? Please know that this is not meant to be inflammatory. I only want to understand more why it is people tend to "gang up" on dt members?
i think if you read the OP post again you will find it's not mean spirited AT ALL.
maybe instead of attacking her, give some tips (like scrapstampindiva) to get known:
post often, post on forums etc etc...........
__________________
{Gallery}{Blog}
I design for: Stampendous!, There She Goes, Technique Tuesday,
SRM Stickers and Deconstructed Sketches.
i think if you read the OP post again you will find it's not mean spirited AT ALL.
maybe instead of attacking her, give some tips (like scrapstampindiva) to get known:
post often, post on forums etc etc...........
Hi Tobi :mrgreen: yep, it's definitely all about post, post, post......design, design, design and post..........surf thru the member forums as well and post, post, post there. PM a few DT members and ask questions if you are curious about something or want some pointers, we're just everyday people and don't mind that at all
I would love to be on a design team. I don't think I'm necessarily at that level, but I also sometimes feel like if I could spend copious amounts of money on anything I needed, then maybe I could be. But what kind of irks me is that there are so many people out there who are designing for more than just one company. I feel like "Yes, you are good. You are designing for Company A, so please give some others a chance at desgning for Company B." Especially when they are designing for 3 or 4 companies! I am completely and utterly jealous. So for you out there on the design teams, designing for multiple companies...you know what...You are amazing! You're cards, pages and other items are great. I guess I just wish that a company would see my stuff and be like, wow, she does really good for not spending much money and not owning every copic marker and prima and ribbon and latest stamps and paper and embellies known to man.
I know how you feel, I am in same position, and I can't afford to get more stuff, I already feel I spend a lot on stamping supplies etc
__________________ Splitcoast Dirty Dozen Alumni visit my blog
I don't find the OP's post insulting or bashing against DT members at all... she is honestly stating that she has questions and that she sometimes feels jealous... nothing wrong with that.
I am on a few DTs although I am NOT well-known or a big name by even the tiniest bit...
Here's my take. I design for two different stamp companies (they are both owned by WONDERFUL individuals who run their business from their home, so they are not HUGE companies.) They both have different styles... one is cute and whimsical and one is sassy and witty. Both are mostly lined images which I am drawn to because I love to color. I think they are different enough to not have any conflict of interest... in the year that I have been designing for them, I have never encountered having the same images to use.
The other DT I am on is for an altered wooden shapes and letters company. This is just another interest of mine and a way to be creative... no competition there at all.
How did I get them.... get your work out there... post a LOT... pick one or two companies you like... stick with those stamps... visit their blogs, play in their competitions, email them your interest... don't wait for someone to come to you... go to them! If they have a DT call... submit!!! (And don't be offended if you don't make it the first time... one of mine I didn't make the firtst round... but kept with it...)
And the other thing... for me, this is part of my job. I am blessed with being able to work from home and I teach on-line crafting classes... and part of my "work" is representing these fabulous companies. And it IS a lot of work... and I take it very seriously.
I do understand your feelings... sometimes I too get jealous of all of those "big name stampers" out there... and there are so many other companies that I LOVE ... but I have to remember that I am ME... and I am happy with that.
I say go for it if you want it... and the best of luck to you!
__________________ Colleen Schaan - Education Specialist at Imagination International Inc.,/Copic Marker
Blog - Distinctive Touches;My Copic Books!
I don't find the OP's post insulting or bashing against DT members at all... she is honestly stating that she has questions and that she sometimes feels jealous... nothing wrong with that.
I am on a few DTs although I am NOT well-known or a big name by even the tiniest bit...
Here's my take. I design for two different stamp companies (they are both owned by WONDERFUL individuals who run their business from their home, so they are not HUGE companies.) They both have different styles... one is cute and whimsical and one is sassy and witty. Both are mostly lined images which I am drawn to because I love to color. I think they are different enough to not have any conflict of interest... in the year that I have been designing for them, I have never encountered having the same images to use.
The other DT I am on is for an altered wooden shapes and letters company. This is just another interest of mine and a way to be creative... no competition there at all.
How did I get them.... get your work out there... post a LOT... pick one or two companies you like... stick with those stamps... visit their blogs, play in their competitions, email them your interest... don't wait for someone to come to you... go to them! If they have a DT call... submit!!! (And don't be offended if you don't make it the first time... one of mine I didn't make the firtst round... but kept with it...)
And the other thing... for me, this is part of my job. I am blessed with being able to work from home and I teach on-line crafting classes... and part of my "work" is representing these fabulous companies. And it IS a lot of work... and I take it very seriously.
I do understand your feelings... sometimes I too get jealous of all of those "big name stampers" out there... and there are so many other companies that I LOVE ... but I have to remember that I am ME... and I am happy with that.
I say go for it if you want it... and the best of luck to you!
Thank you for the GREAT advice, I know I applied to couple DT calls, but now I am hoping to not be chosen LOL. I am VERY busy at the moment, as I have quite few art festivals coming up, and a BIG juried one in September, which may open doors for other things.
But I am going to save what you said, in case I am planning to apply in the future. You are awesome!
__________________ Splitcoast Dirty Dozen Alumni visit my blog
I don't find the OP's post insulting or bashing against DT members at all... she is honestly stating that she has questions and that she sometimes feels jealous... nothing wrong with that.
I am on a few DTs although I am NOT well-known or a big name by even the tiniest bit...
Here's my take. I design for two different stamp companies (they are both owned by WONDERFUL individuals who run their business from their home, so they are not HUGE companies.) They both have different styles... one is cute and whimsical and one is sassy and witty. Both are mostly lined images which I am drawn to because I love to color. I think they are different enough to not have any conflict of interest... in the year that I have been designing for them, I have never encountered having the same images to use.
The other DT I am on is for an altered wooden shapes and letters company. This is just another interest of mine and a way to be creative... no competition there at all.
How did I get them.... get your work out there... post a LOT... pick one or two companies you like... stick with those stamps... visit their blogs, play in their competitions, email them your interest... don't wait for someone to come to you... go to them! If they have a DT call... submit!!! (And don't be offended if you don't make it the first time... one of mine I didn't make the firtst round... but kept with it...)
And the other thing... for me, this is part of my job. I am blessed with being able to work from home and I teach on-line crafting classes... and part of my "work" is representing these fabulous companies. And it IS a lot of work... and I take it very seriously.
I do understand your feelings... sometimes I too get jealous of all of those "big name stampers" out there... and there are so many other companies that I LOVE ... but I have to remember that I am ME... and I am happy with that.
I say go for it if you want it... and the best of luck to you!
Very well said!
I would love to be on a design team some day, and I admit it is tough on the ego when you aren't picked for one. But, one of the most important things to remember is that even if you are not a "Stampin' Celebrity" you have to remember why you started stampin'/scrappin' in the first place - because you love it.
i don't know if i'm a "famous" stamper/artist or not--you tell me, but i DO know that I was approached by 3 of the teams I'm on (Verve, MFT, and SU INK) and applied for the 4th one before I was asked for any of the others--the smallest company I may add (GLUE). I think it was all a matter of getting my work out there, posting more to my gallery, posting to my blog frequently and putting myself out there in a few forums. This took a lot for me to do because I still think there are so many other artists out there that have more talent than I do!! I have certainly grown as a stamper over the last few years (take a look at the "back" of my gallery!) I don't see anything wrong with being on several teams, because I think each companies products are different and naturally cause each card or item I make to have a different "look" to them. I will say this--if you persue any DT position, make sure you are in love with the stamps or their product or you won't have FUN anymore making things with their stuff! Anyway, as Dory from Nemo would say, "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming", just keep working at it and learning (case, too!). There are always going to be stamp companies that need designers and some that will rotate their teams to offer more opportunities for others!! You can do it!!
hey ya'll! I am not even unpacked in my new house but this thread intrigued me because just a bit over a year ago....I was in your shoes---wondering how I could get noticed and get on a dt or two.
After all, what is better than free product and getting paid to do what you absolutely LOVE?
Although I am not a big name in the industry, I am proud of where I have come in the past year...but it has taken a LOT of hard work---
Don't be afraid to try out for dt calls and contests. After all, if you are having problems landing a full time dt, go for a guest postion or enter a contest or two.
Be prepared for rejection. It does hurt but it is all part of the process. Every designer I know has been rejected at least once. I did not get on the first dt I applied for and I know how disappointed I was---but the important thing is that I didnt give up. Just keep trying and practicing--you will get there.
Finally, you do not have to have all the lastest gadgets and accessories to make wonderful things. Sure, it helps but showing how to use ordinary things creatively is a big plus. After you land those first dts and make a bit of money-you can invest back into your hobby/business and add those wish list items to your stamp inventory. AND THAT IS FUN~!
Just wanted to give my two cents!! Good luck to you!
I would love to be on a design team. I don't think I'm necessarily at that level, but I also sometimes feel like if I could spend copious amounts of money on anything I needed, then maybe I could be. But what kind of irks me is that there are so many people out there who are designing for more than just one company. I feel like "Yes, you are good. You are designing for Company A, so please give some others a chance at designing for Company B." Especially when they are designing for 3 or 4 companies! I am completely and utterly jealous. So for you out there on the design teams, designing for multiple companies...you know what...You are amazing! You're cards, pages and other items are great. I guess I just wish that a company would see my stuff and be like, wow, she does really good for not spending much money and not owning every copic marker and prima and ribbon and latest stamps and paper and embellies known to man.
you know what? You don't have to spend "copious amounts" of money. If you invest wisely, there's an amazing amounts of things you can make with just one stamp set! It's not always what you use but how you use it. You don't need to have Copics etc to make really great things. Use what you have to the best of your abilities. Enjoy the art of paper crafting without the pressure of focusing on being a DT member. Pursue the goal of being on a DT by honing your craft.
I am on 2 design teams that I applied for and was miraculously accepted! I truly love both of these companies, they both produce awesome stamps and I am very thankful to be a part of both of them. At the moment, my plate is getting full with these 2 DT's as well as being a SAHM to 5 and a Stampin' Up demo.
It IS possible to love more than one company's stamps, you know! I love Bella's, MFT, Verve Visual, SU ... I could go on and on with all that I love!!
I can't speak for the owners of any stamp company. I don't know what they're looking for when they look for design team members. I'd imagine it may include things such as: good (and I mean good) photography, good artwork, lots of posting on your blog and in forums like Kendra said. That's just a few thought, anyway.
you know what? You don't have to spend "copious amounts" of money. If you invest wisely, there's an amazing amounts of things you can make with just one stamp set! It's not always what you use but how you use it. You don't need to have Copics etc to make really great things. Use what you have to the best of your abilities. Enjoy the art of paper crafting without the pressure of focusing on being a DT member. Pursue the goal of being on a DT by honing your craft.
Very well said, Renee! As the design team coordinator for Verve, the latest gadgets aren't what I'm looking for, but how you make the stamps sing. KWIM? Just keep trying! I agree with Kendra and Carolyn also. Post in forums, participate in challenges, and enter contests. Anything to get those companies you're interested in looking at your work! Most of all, have fun. If it's not fun, it's not a hobby anymore!
i don't know if i'm a "famous" stamper/artist or not--you tell me, but i DO know that I was approached by 3 of the teams I'm on (Verve, MFT, and SU INK) and applied for the 4th one before I was asked for any of the others--the smallest company I may add (GLUE). I think it was all a matter of getting my work out there, posting more to my gallery, posting to my blog frequently and putting myself out there in a few forums. This took a lot for me to do because I still think there are so many other artists out there that have more talent than I do!! I have certainly grown as a stamper over the last few years (take a look at the "back" of my gallery!) I don't see anything wrong with being on several teams, because I think each companies products are different and naturally cause each card or item I make to have a different "look" to them. I will say this--if you persue any DT position, make sure you are in love with the stamps or their product or you won't have FUN anymore making things with their stuff! Anyway, as Dory from Nemo would say, "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming", just keep working at it and learning (case, too!). There are always going to be stamp companies that need designers and some that will rotate their teams to offer more opportunities for others!! You can do it!!
I should have added this, too---I DON'T have all the latest and greatest stuff, nor am I able to purchase copious amounts of anything. We are a one income family (a small income!) with two little girls and a teenage daughter (that speaks for itself!). I don't think it takes all that "stuff" to become a designer or a good crafter. You have to create constantly to find your style and to get better. Use what you have and don't feel like you have to "keep up with the Jones'" because you so don't!!
Hello, everyone. Just a note to the op... I just want to encourage you that you can totally, 100% make it as a designer without spending a ton of money! I've been publishing with Paper Crafts and many other mags for several years now but I have never been a big spender on stamps, etc. For instance, I love SU, but I've only bought a few stamps from them in the past 2 years (probably 5 sets or less - I go for the few I can use over and over). I don't jump on the bandwagon for every hot new products... I'm very particular and purchase only what I know is a good investment for me (I'm finally going to break down and get a single gray Copic for shading only!). Mags and DT's do want to see new product, but they also want to see *great* designs, and that doesn't always have to mean using new product. Think about it... it doesn't make sense for every mag and DT to only choose projects that look the same (using all the same product, etc.). It takes a variety of creative styles to truly show off a product or company. And obviously, if a company sees that you make great stuff with their product all the time, yes, they are more likely to notice you. But I will say that it's not impossible to be approached by a company simply because they like your style and know that you will work well with them. If the design is great, they will love your project and take notice of you no matter what. My advice is to focus on that.
__________________ Paper Crafts Go-to-Gal member #1507gallery witticisms... a witty blog
I have been reading this thread with great interest and want to say this: if any one stamper has the creativity and energy to be on many design teams *More Power to Them*!! I believe the stamp company owners are saavy enough to discern which artists will showcase their products in the best light, and if a team memeber is spread a little too thin (on too many teams) I would think they would either resign or be asked to resign. I do not know as I am not yet a design team member but pure speculation on my part. Thanks for letting me chime in!!
I can't really say anything because I've never submitted/applied to be on a design team (even though I'd love to be on one!). I'm surprised that the companies are ok with one person being on multiple teams. You can't demonstrate for SU and CTMH so I would think the companies would have issue with that?
__________________ Jenny Mick
Check out my blog... Create Everyday (updated daily sometimes more than once a day)
Well, I have all the latest and greatest and am not on any design teams!! LOL
Seriously, it is human nature to feel a twinge of envy when someone else has something you want. All you can do is try your best! I'm not envious of the design team gig, but I am envious of the TALENT!!! Oh, to be able to be so clever and creative!! You go ladies! And, Stampin Kub!
About the conflict of interest? IMHO, it is up to the company to deal with that issue, not the stamper.
If Company A doesn't mind if you are also designing for Companies B - Z, then go for it! In fact, I bet sometimes Company A wants its designers to be designing for other companies, as it might lend legitimacy to the design team of a new company to have a well known designer on its team.
__________________ Dear Paperlicious is my blog...with a series on how I'm learning to improve my cardmaking by studying others.
Cammies not a big name in the industry? That makes me giggle......
I am not a big name (waaaaay smaller than Cammie) but I am also on 3 DT's and none are a conflict. Each company I work with I LOVE, the products are very different from the others in style and that's how I don't see it as a conflict.
There is no way to get published or on a design team without working, and submitting. For my 1 card that is published there are about 60 that are rejects, so you can see the odds.
If you LOVE the products from a company then become involved with their forum, either here on SCS or on their website. Use the products, post to your blog and upload to the gallery here.
I have 2 girls under 4, but I MAKE the time each day for myself. If I don't I'm not as happy, you have to give yourself some time to do what you love.
And if you just apply to a DT without a love of the product then I think it shows. Just applying to do it may be good practice, but when you are passionate about what you work with then it comes through.
Don't give up and good luck!
Quote:
Originally Posted by Cammie
hey ya'll! I am not even unpacked in my new house but this thread intrigued me because just a bit over a year ago....I was in your shoes---wondering how I could get noticed and get on a dt or two.
After all, what is better than free product and getting paid to do what you absolutely LOVE?
Although I am not a big name in the industry, I am proud of where I have come in the past year...but it has taken a LOT of hard work---
Don't be afraid to try out for dt calls and contests. After all, if you are having problems landing a full time dt, go for a guest postion or enter a contest or two.
Be prepared for rejection. It does hurt but it is all part of the process. Every designer I know has been rejected at least once. I did not get on the first dt I applied for and I know how disappointed I was---but the important thing is that I didnt give up. Just keep trying and practicing--you will get there.
Finally, you do not have to have all the lastest gadgets and accessories to make wonderful things. Sure, it helps but showing how to use ordinary things creatively is a big plus. After you land those first dts and make a bit of money-you can invest back into your hobby/business and add those wish list items to your stamp inventory. AND THAT IS FUN~!
Just wanted to give my two cents!! Good luck to you!
But I'm not directly selling for the companies who I design for, I am promoting and creating. I think that is the difference between being able to be on multiple design teams and selling SU/CTMH.
If I could only be allowed to use one brand of stamps, I couldn't........I would probably choose to not be on any DT so that I had freedom to use what I love.
Quote:
Originally Posted by jfstamps
I can't really say anything because I've never submitted/applied to be on a design team (even though I'd love to be on one!). I'm surprised that the companies are ok with one person being on multiple teams. You can't demonstrate for SU and CTMH so I would think the companies would have issue with that?
I have to admit I am totally jealous of all the design team members. I would LOVE to have a DH that would support me being able to do all of that -- I am lucky to get a card made on the fly heading out the door to said event.
Like Elizabeth said, we are not "selling" for all these companies. We simply "advertise" for them, therefore no conflict of interest, unless the company itself considers it to be. That would be like saying Tom Cruise can ONLY be in Mission Impossible movies because he can only represent that movie. They do like to know if you are on any other teams, but mostly have the attitude that as long as you can keep up with ALL of it, that's cool!
I applied for one DT and was never notified either way. You kind of feel, like geez, what's wrong with my work that they didn't even respond to me. We all love to have our work validated, I smile every time I get a comment in my gallery! But I have no idea what anyone is looking for. Some cards that I make and I think they are just ok get numerous hits and comments while there are other cards that I upload, thinking they are the best thing since sliced bread don't get viewed at all. Go figure. One day I will be on a DT. I'm not in any hurry.
I do understand what the op means though. I see something and say, Hey I could have done that...but then I laugh to myself and remind myself that I didn't! kwim? LOL
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Quote:
Originally Posted by chickadee3357
I would love to be on a design team. I don't think I'm necessarily at that level, but I also sometimes feel like if I could spend copious amounts of money on anything I needed, then maybe I could be. But what kind of irks me is that there are so many people out there who are designing for more than just one company. I feel like "Yes, you are good. You are designing for Company A, so please give some others a chance at desgning for Company B." Especially when they are designing for 3 or 4 companies! I am completely and utterly jealous. So for you out there on the design teams, designing for multiple companies...you know what...You are amazing! You're cards, pages and other items are great. I guess I just wish that a company would see my stuff and be like, wow, she does really good for not spending much money and not owning every copic marker and prima and ribbon and latest stamps and paper and embellies known to man.
I understand how you could feel that way.
I'm on 1 dt and I dont have all the latest and greatest toys, dont have tons of money to buy the latest and greatest. I work a full-time job and don't have a ton of stamping time at all.
It was pure luck that my work I submitted to this stamp company caught the owners eye and I wonder how I got so lucky every day! This company is the only 1 I have ever applied for so I think we must be meant for each other, lol.
Just keep practicing your stamping, stick with your own style and submit your work to companies that you love and are interested in. That's all the advice I can give, I'm definitely not a pro!
Oh and what Elizabeth said is so true. Use their products and put your samples on your blog or website and the SCS gallery.
I applied for one DT and was never notified either way. You kind of feel, like geez, what's wrong with my work that they didn't even respond to me. We all love to have our work validated, I smile every time I get a comment in my gallery! But I have no idea what anyone is looking for. Some cards that I make and I think they are just ok get numerous hits and comments while there are other cards that I upload, thinking they are the best thing since sliced bread don't get viewed at all. Go figure. One day I will be on a DT. I'm not in any hurry.
I do understand what the op means though. I see something and say, Hey I could have done that...but then I laugh to myself and remind myself that I didn't! kwim? LOL
can you imagine how many applicants some companies receive? I can't see that they'd respond to each and every one, some may and that's nice. I love validation too, but don't need it to keep playin' in my stamp room! It's an art form I love and enjoy.
I'm going to chime in here briefly too....As many of the other girls have said....it takes a lot of work at honing your skills and learning. I love the learning part of stamping...that never gets old!
One of the large things you can do to get noticed is to work on being published....nothing makes a company notice you like being in print. You need a thick skin for this (lots of rejection) but if you pay attention to the calls of magazines and keep at it, the rewards are huge! That would be my "little piece of" advice.
But most of all.....LOVE what you do and make sure that is why you are doing it!
I applied for one DT and was never notified either way. You kind of feel, like geez, what's wrong with my work that they didn't even respond to me. We all love to have our work validated, I smile every time I get a comment in my gallery! But I have no idea what anyone is looking for. Some cards that I make and I think they are just ok get numerous hits and comments while there are other cards that I upload, thinking they are the best thing since sliced bread don't get viewed at all. Go figure. One day I will be on a DT. I'm not in any hurry.
I do understand what the op means though. I see something and say, Hey I could have done that...but then I laugh to myself and remind myself that I didn't! kwim? LOL
I applied and didn't hear anything too. I sometimes still wonder if they even recieved it. What if I sent it to the wrong address? Or the hotmail just screwed up? (Thoughts I like to comfort myself with because I didn't get chosen, I don't know?)
__________________ Kelli ~ "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." Proverbs 16:24 My blog ~ My Gallery 2018 Scrap Goal 8/12
Thank you everyone for your comments. I really appreciate the encouragement and also helping others to understand that I'm not meaning to be mean to DT members. Also thank you for helping me to remember to not "keep up with the Jones" I'm sometimes forget that.
__________________ Kelli ~ "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." Proverbs 16:24 My blog ~ My Gallery 2018 Scrap Goal 8/12
Another very important point in getting chosen for a DT or publication is the quality of your PHOTOS. You have to be able to take a beautiful picture of your beautiful creation! No matter how wonderful your work is doesn't mean a thing if no one can see it!!!!! I am amazed at the difference in an unedited photo and a simple quick fix in an editing program. I can NOT afford all the latest and greatest either, I have 6 kiddos, my hubby works long hours etc. like EVERYONE elses families. But I can say that my Adobe Photo shop program is my number one best product I have ever purchased!!! At $80(sams club) it is very expensive(to me) but it has improved my work by leaps and bounds!
I am not a big name and just started my first stint as a DT member.
Another thing I can say that you must make it known to the owner of the company that you want to be on their DT. The one I am now on I basically made a shamless post stating how much I wanted to be a part of the company. She responded back to me that she did not know I wanted to be a part and would love to have me! After thinking about it she sees thousands of cards a day and it must be impossible to remember everyone, so if the company knows your interest then they can search for you work and make a decision. KWIM?
Thank you everyone for your comments. I really appreciate the encouragement and also helping others to understand that I'm not meaning to be mean to DT members. Also thank you for helping me to remember to not "keep up with the Jones" I'm sometimes forget that.
For those of you who have applied for DT's and have not heard either way - be sure you check your spam folders. I'm a DT Coordinator for one company - and an email to one of the applicants actually ended up in SPAM. If you don't hear back, it can't hurt to email them.
I don't consider myself a "big" name, but I'm constantly sharing what I love to do here on the forums, my blog, company blogs and by submitting to magazines. Rejection is not always easy, just keep doing what you love to do!
So many great pointers and advice. I am far from a big name in the industry. I was in the same boat just six months ago. I did what many have suggested. I used the company's products a LOT on my blog and posting in their galleries and the gallery here. I posted a lot in their forums, entered in their contests and challenges, and let them know how much I love their products. I didn't want to design for just anyone so I decided what companies I love and worked to get noticed by them. It takes a lot of work before and after getting on a design team, but I love what I do and the companies I work with so it's worth it.
I'm Jealous...but what about a conflict of interest.
