I am a fan of Layl Dill, an AFI member and polymer clay artist extraordinaire. What she is able to do with this clay is amazing. She goes way beyond making the canes and then using them for jewelry. Check out her website: http://www.claysquared.com/index.php/layls-silly-milly-art and see for yourself.
I bought a light switch plate for a bathroom with a sealife theme. I took the plate out of the box and went to install it. I noticed the white screws stood out a little and thought about painting them. As I was throwing out the box, I noticed a little plastic bag with screws that matched the light plate. She had thoughtfully included them to 'finish' off the piece.
A couple of years ago I bought a bracelet made of amazing beads. I fell in love with the colors and had to have it. As I tried it on, I noticed a little silver tassel hanging from the end of the clasp. A nice touch that isn't normally found on commercial bracelets.
I have a 3d piece and the figure is on the lid to a small box that makes up the base. An added touch that helped sell me the piece.
These are the things that customers notice when they are buying your work. We like buying things that aren't found at Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel etc.
Whether it is a new type of wire for an earring, an extra design on that ceramic piece or something special added to that watercolor, these thing are noticed and appreciated.
Comments
You're so right (again) Geri! I try and add a little touch 'extra' to everything and it is always appreciated. Even in a piece is plain by design, added extras such as packaging, a little freebie, extra information, guarantees etc., are still appreciated by the customer.
I am the reason that the mermaid holding a turtle is sold. My mermaid is amazing, I notice something new every time I look at her. While cute is not a word I would use to describe the sculptures, some of her canes definitely are. I hope she inspires young girls to want to learn how to make them.
Geri, I had to go take a look at Layl's work. Oh my goodness what cute stuff! No wonder you are a fan.
Geri, those little extras are the things that make you a repeat customer. Those are the things missing from the junk from China.