Announcement!

I Have A Notion blog and store have moved to:


the store can be found at


There is a much easier to navigate store, with new items. The blog has its own page as well... new content too.

The blog is now at www.ihaveanotion.com/blog

Please come and visit!

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Why Shop at I Have A Notion (IHAN)?

Why Shop At I Have A Notion this holiday season? Or at all, for that matter?

That's a good question, don't you think?  Why do you or don't you shop at IHAN?  I've been honest and forthright in my posts (except where I put the practices and acknowledge I'm telling a lie or the truth is being stretched :)  and I would like to hear what you have to say too.

Do you have any feedback that would be helpful for me or the IHAN website.  Could it be more user friendly?  More convenient?  Better prices?  What is it that would cause you to shop at IHAN for your Quilting, Machine Embroidery and Needle Art Supplies on a  regular basis? (please don't say money because I know we all have money trees hidden under our fabric stash....lol :)


To keep this conversation balanced, I'd like to tell you why I own IHAN, what I love about my work here and why I'd like to invite more people to shop with me.
IHAN found me, I didn't set out with a plan to open a Quilting, Embroidery and Needle Art Supply Website.  It has grown from a tiny seed and now has several budding branches.

I have frequently asked myself why am I doing this? And why do I continue to put my energy here.  The answer is, and has been, because of the connections I have made with other people that have grown my soul and added beauty to my life and the world.  Honestly, it has little to do with sewing at all...although I love to create, sew, play and encourage that pleasure in others.  It's all about the people....drawing wonderful people into my life...that is why I'm here at IHAN

I spend quite a bit of my time doing the type of research I want to do....not that someone has asked me to do....but because I want to know if the products we see in magazines are worth my time, money and energy.    It does benefit others and I so enjoy that....but I love being able to network, share ideas and information and seek goodness in people and in business.

The IHAN Blog?  Well....I have to say it has a special place in my heart...it is a platform to share ideas, thoughts, strange humor and experiences with other like minded people and it is a privilege, freedom and a gift I deeply appreciate....I still can't believe it's FREE!


While at Quilt Market in Houston this past November, I became more aware of  the way I run my business and life too really.   How I do business (never feels like "business" to me but..)...it has to be a win/win...good for everyone...and I care about those I buy from, or network with, to support their businesses and lives.  It's all personal to me....if that makes sense...it's more about my value system I guess.  

My life energy is  precious to me and so is my time.  Lucky for me, I spend quite a bit of my time exchanging information, ideas and thoughts with so many people her on the Internet and also while at Quilt Market.  While at Market, I spend quite a bit of time getting and giving hugs, hearing about who others are and what they are interested in doing or creating.  There is very little time spent talking about  about money or making money.  Funny thing is...when I spend my time doing that...I end up making more money...not only a bit for myself....but for others as well.  I'd say that is a win/win, wouldn't you? 

When I shop I think about who and what I'm supporting...I ask myself...do I want to pay their mortgage for example.  I think many people would be surprised to see how I engage sales people and businesses before I make a purchase..especially a large purchase.  This is not to say I haven't been mis-led...nope...that has happened too....and I'm wiser for the journey.

Sorry if this sounds a bit heavy for you....if it is...go turn the TV back on or play computer solitaire.....we all need a break every now and again : )


Time for you to share your thoughts.....and here is some enticement...ya gotta love enticements :)


For everyone who leaves a sincere comment on this post or who sends an e-mail to IHaveANotion@yahoo.com (please put IHAN Feedback in the subject line) I will enter your name into the drawing for the gift package....and of course I'll be adding more fun things to the collection too.   I'd like to know if you have any suggestions for improving IHAN or the IHAN blog....why you do or don't shop at IHAN (remember, forthright and honest) or things you'd like to see expanded, changed or stopped.  (If you tell me to stop with my strange humor...sorry I can't do that...I was born this way).

For the folks who like routine...YES I DO KNOW IT'S WEDNESDAY...LOL...and I'm working on Increasing your E-Notion IQ post too :)

Oh yeah....when will I tell ya who gets the prizes?....don't even say you weren't thinking about winning...we all love to have some fun things arrive at our doors....I'll let the Mean Mr. Random Number Generator do the dirty work....on Monday December 12th...sound good?

Sincere Smiles,
Kelly

78 comments:

  1. My favorite thing about IHAN is that you're so "real" -- no airs about you, girl! I love that you do honest, tried-it reviews about your stuff. Plus, you're generous!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Well...Kelly, you from the moment you have stepped into the blogging scene, I have been one of your biggest fans....and will continue to be one. You are amazing, sincere, and yes, you shop is user friendly, customer service is tops and your employees the cutest young men ever.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I am not going to lie. I love this blog. I love the reviews you give including the tutorials that show how products work. I have put items into my Wishpot (wish list) often never purchasing them. And, I love your wacky sense of humor too. :-)

    However, I have to confess that I'm a savvy shopper. I tend to shop around for the best prices including shipping and handling. I'm a Scrooge year round. Ha! :-) This may be why I have only purchased from your shop once or twice. Or none? For the life of me, I cannot remember!

    PS If this entry is drawn, please redraw as most of the stuff in the prize I'd probably will never use with the exception of the clips and the light. I rather see that someone use and appreciate the prize(s). :-)

    ReplyDelete
  4. I love your blog and getting inspiration from it. When it comes down to buying fabric I look at the cost....yardage price, postage and the dreaded customs. If I buy from the states I buy 8 yards in a $13 (?) post envelope and hope the customs do not stop it.
    Maybe you could give an example of how much 8 yards costs to ship to the UK on your shipping page.

    ReplyDelete
  5. I love your shop Kelly. And if truth be known, I would buy one of everything if I could. I have purchased from your store before (EQ6 for one). You are sincere and very helpful. When I purchased an item that I had problems with, you helped me to resolve it. And your prize looks yummy! I gave my Beam and Read to my mother in love as she was having difficulty reading at night. You are a wonderful person Kelly, and I am so grateful to know you. Keep on blogging :-)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I enjoy reading your blog for the interesting product reviews, but have not purchased anything from your shop, yet. I already have quite a few tools, but since I follow your blog when I do need something I plan on visiting you to comparison shop.

    Thanks,

    Cindy

    ReplyDelete
  7. I really appreciate your honest product reviews and the way you promote buying local whenever possible, so my dear, it's your sincerity and honesty that keeps me shopping at IHAN.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I have not yet bought from your store as I have not ventured into buying anything other than fabric online. I appreciate your honesty and putting a "face" to your store. I like the personable aspect. That is probably why I am more likely to buy from my local quilt shop than online. I have only recently began reading your blog and I enjoy it. If something catches my eye that I need (versus want) I will definitely consider buying it. Thanks for the "deep" post :)

    ReplyDelete
  9. I found your blog and shop through another blog long enough ago that I don't remember. I do remember my first time reading and realizing that your prices are great but more than that, I'm getting an unbiased true critque of products that I want to purchase some where in my future when the money train comes through. I know you put a lot into trying and describing each item and whether it is worth it or not. So when I see some of the bigger items I'm interested in on your blog/shop I know that it's worth it because you just wouldn't sell it if it's junk.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Kelly, I love your blog and your stories, about yourself and your kids. You have a great sense of humour and put enough of yourself into the blog to make it interesting. I don't like that your blog comes up on my reader with only the first few sentences showing. I need to tell you that when blogs come up like that I seldom click on them to open them right up. So if I'm not opening up and reading your whole blog posts, then I'm not remembering all the wonderful things you sell in your shop and going to look and them as often. Which I am sure you know means less sales.
    The other thing that is a deterrent for me is shipping costs. I live in Canada, shipping is pricey. Since the base rate is $11.95 I usually try to get enough things to fill a package. I don't know why, but I've never been able to find enough things that I want/need enough at one time in your store to justify the postage. This is not your fault. You can't do anything about postal prices and you can't make me want or need things I don't. The one thing you could do is fix the darned blog so that I get and read the whole thing. That would lead to me looking in your store more often and probably making a purchase at some point. Hope this is helpful.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I have no suggestions on how you might improve IHAN, as I think it's pretty perfect already. I came to IHAN as a shopper, and you had the best price for what I wanted. Our interaction on that order and your upfront honesty and sense of humor caused me to be not only a follower of the blog, but also a friend.

    With a DH who was laid off almost 3 years ago, who hasn't found a permanent job yet, I was blessed to make the original purchase and getting to meet you. When I can afford to buy something that I need, IHAN will be the first place I come to for shopping. Just keep the prices reasonable and the shipping affordable, and be your wonderful quirky, fun self, and your "branches" will grow all on their own.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I love your blog and enjoy browsing your online store. I find the store easy to use with great prices. Like so many others I spent time unemployed this year. This too shall pass ... and when it does IHAN has several items on the top of my "wish" list.

    ReplyDelete
  13. I have said it before, I love your site - I love your product reviews as sometimes I do not even know a product exists until I read about it on your blog. Being on a fixed income, we do not buy much anymore, but I always know I can dream. I wish I could do more buying and less dreaming, but it is what it is. I love your honesty and beautiful spirit. Judy C in nc

    ReplyDelete
  14. I love how you review products and then carry them and also have sales on them. I think your helpers are cute too!

    ReplyDelete
  15. I don't get out to quilt festival so your blog is where I learn about all the latest and greatest gadgets and tools that help me to be a better quilter. Thanks Kelly!

    ReplyDelete
  16. I love your quirky (not at all strange) sense of humor! I look forward to your posts and enjoy reading every one of them. And I love buying from you because you're so honest and generous, and I love the little handwritten notes you tuck in with each package. Happy Holidays Kelly!

    ReplyDelete
  17. I love IHAN. Your blog is fantastic. Your site is one of my favorite to view. Right now due to finances I can't really shop, but your still always so nice and share so much. When I feel I have the money I will be shopping with you.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I love your sense of humor and your great product reviews! I don't get to go to the big shows or anywhere that new products are featured. I've learned so much! I'm a gadget girl, and love to read about new things. Thanks so much for all you do!

    ReplyDelete
  19. I also enjoy reading your blog. I enjoy your honest reviews of products. To be truthful, I nearly always try to buy at my LQS. If they go out of business I would hate to have to drive an hour just to get to a quilt shop. However, I will make an effort to try your shop as I really DO enjoy your blog. Thx!

    ReplyDelete
  20. you're a good, interesting blogger, give good, interesting product reviews and have a really good sense of humor. carry on with the goodness!

    ReplyDelete
  21. By far, your blog is one of my favorites! I remember coming upon your blog thru Pat Sloan. Being a "Notion Queen" I fell in love with your website. I love your honesty in your reviews of notions and absolutely love your sense of humor!! Whatever you decide to do, please remain true to yourself. Thank you for such a wonderful store and blog.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Kelly, It is a pleasure doing business with you. I love the personal touch you bring to your site, your blog and your interaction with IHAN customers. I ordered 2 products a while ago and you contacted me to say I was buying two of the same product. Thank you for your honesty. You bring this same honesty to your product reviews. The information you provide is very helpful to most quilters who are trying to stretch their quilting budget as far as they can and especially beneficial to those of us who love gadgets. Also love your personal/business philosophy. Sounds as if you are truly trying to walk your talk.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Actually, I was going to give feedback without the bribe of a giveaway. That extra bit is why I like you. (Of course, enter me! LOL) Though we haven't purchased high $ through you, you have received all we spent on rulers. Whenever someone blogs and asks about a ruler, I usually end up mentioning you. Why? You are honest and trustworthy. When you say you will do something, you do. Besides you are funny in your blog posts. And, you are extremely knowledgeable about tools, notions, etc.. You spent extra time to hunt down what my mother needed. These qualities are why I feel comfortable recommending IHAN. I will say that the web site is a challenge for me to navigate. That may be more me than the web site. Your blog is a great asset for building your business, in my opinion. It built my initial confidence in your integrity as a businesswoman. Thank you Kelly.

    ReplyDelete
  24. I enjoy following your blog and find your reviews of products particularly useful. There are a couple of items I'd like to purchase because of your reviews (including the Beam-n-Read light) but haven't yet for financial reasons. I tend to think your prices are a little high, but I'm also willing (when I have the money) to pay a little extra for great customer service (which you provide).

    ReplyDelete
  25. I don't regularly buy from you, and the only reason is your international shipping policy, the wording on your shipping info page is quite confronting and I have been too scared to ask for a quote...

    ReplyDelete
  26. Hmm. Definitely sounds serious. But ask you ask, I shop at IHAN as you introduce me to products that you think I'd like, as you know what I like to do. I trust your recommendations. I also like it when you find things that I can't find elsewhere. You've introduced me to some wonderful DVDs that have helped my FMQ, some great tweezers that I don't know how I ever lived without (or how any quilter manages without) and many other products too.

    But I trust you, which is why I shop at IHAN. It isn't a matter of giveaways, but the integrity you have for selling quality products at reasonable prices.

    SewCalGal
    www.sewcalgal.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  27. I wish I could remember how told me about your blog and shop - cuz I'd have to thank them! I love how real you are, I love hearing about your life, I love your zany humor. Your reviews are REAL - honest - and your heart is evident in every post, and every transaction. If I could, I'd buy one of everything from your store! It's so fun to browse and dream.

    Your customer service just can't be beat, Kelly, keep up the great work there. Let's pray this stinky economy turns around so we can GET MORE GADGETS!

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hi Kelly, originally I came to your blog because of the month long giveaway. However yours is one of three blogs I read (almost) every day. I work full time and have lots of other commitments (don't we all) but I try to spend a few minutes reading my three favourite blogs; one of which is yours. I love the fun attitude and the great information you give. It is also fun entering the competitions, even if I don't win. Of course I checked out your shop and have bought odd things from time to time. With our Australian dollar being about parity with yours, it is a great time to shop online. Also, the same products are cheaper in US than in Australia; sometimes only a little, but sometimes a lot (even after adding postage). I find your prices to be very competitive. At first I checked a few other web sites, but now I would probably just buy from you because I know you will look after me. Further, there are some things (actually a lot of things for quilting) that you get in the states that I have never seen here in Australia. That month of giveaways was great, 'cos I got to see lots of things I have never seen before, some of which I subsequently purchased. I think your 'profiling' of products is excellent and great for me who often has no idea of what is available. I'm spreading the word at the craft camps I attend. My recent purchase of the blade sharpener was of great interest, and I think at least one other person will purchase one. I'm glad you find joy in your work. I work for Alzheimer's with a great group of people and I love it too. It makes working, not really work. Kind regards Sam

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi Kelly, originally I came to your blog because of the month long giveaway. However yours is one of three blogs I read (almost) every day. I work full time and have lots of other commitments (don't we all) but I try to spend a few minutes reading my three favourite blogs; one of which is yours. I love the fun attitude and the great information you give. It is also fun entering the competitions, even if I don't win. Of course I checked out your shop and have bought odd things from time to time. With our Australian dollar being about parity with yours, it is a great time to shop online. Also, the same products are cheaper in US than in Australia; sometimes only a little, but sometimes a lot (even after adding postage). I find your prices to be very competitive. At first I checked a few other web sites, but now I would probably just buy from you because I know you will look after me. Further, there are some things (actually a lot of things for quilting) that you get in the states that I have never seen here in Australia. That month of giveaways was great, 'cos I got to see lots of things I have never seen before, some of which I subsequently purchased. I think your 'profiling' of products is excellent and great for me who often has no idea of what is available. I'm spreading the word at the craft camps I attend. My recent purchase of the blade sharpener was of great interest, and I think at least one other person will purchase one. I'm glad you find joy in your work. I work for Alzheimer's with a great group of people and I love it too. It makes working, not really work. Kind regards Sam

    ReplyDelete
  30. Its funny you would ask this question now. Just yesterday I was looking around your shop for some rotary blades and you didn't carry the size I needed so I had to go elsewhere to get them. I peruse your shop often and find that I am drooling over the things you carry. It seems you carry many things I love but the higher end things (things I cannot afford). That is not to say it is a bad thing. There are some things I am saving for. BUT in times such as these there are things I want but don't necessarily need. Does that make sense. I enjoy you very much and can tell you put your heart and soul into what you do and wish I could support you more.

    ReplyDelete
  31. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  32. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcuR2zuwfeQ&feature=related

    Please re-draw

    ReplyDelete
  33. Kelly you're a wise woman to ask this question but it's difficult for those of us out here to answer because the answer lies in a combination of things. I honestly don't do much internet shopping at all but your store is at the top of my list when I'm looking for something. Your prices are totally in line with other shops so that's never an issue for me. Your trust in me, the customer, is the real drawing card. I know you can get burned sometimes and I hate that, but the fact that you don't take that out on other customers is remarkable. I love that I can e-mail you directly and ask a question knowing that you will answer it honestly and in a timely manner. The Beam-n-Read is a case in point. I asked questions, you answered, I bought, and I love it just like you said I would. And just so you know I'm saving up for that orange Reliable iron and it's going to be my next purchase from you when I bite the bullet - and yes, I know I could buy it from Amazon at the same price but I'd rather buy from "the little guy" whenever possible. blessings, marlene

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hi Kelly - I just found you this year and am still impressed with how you jumped in and helped me to find the cutters/snips that would work perfectly for me. I honestly do not have any constructive criticism for you. You are helpful, fun, have competitive prices, provide wonderful customer service - what else could we ask for?

    ReplyDelete
  35. Hi Kelly,
    Since I work full time here at home, and juggle my blogging and quilting and "real" life, too, I rely on you to give honest reviews of products. The fact that you and I are on the same page as far as humor goes, is a plus that brightens my day! When I have purchased from you, I receive my shipment quickly, and smile at the card about the elves who obsess about my order being perfect. And then I open the item I ordered and I am always pleased. Your determination to give sterling customer service and friendly advice shines through, and since that is what I try to give my customers, I value that a great deal. I would say the only reason that I don't order more from you is that the money tree is actually LOST under that pile of fabric -- when I find it, you'll see more requests from me!

    ReplyDelete
  36. I visit your blog everyday. Here is one of the places I come to for inspiration and ideas. You share upbeat and encouraging things with your readers and that means something to me. Keep up your positive attitude and blog. That is what brings me back.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Ok, add on....I come to you before I go anywhere else..if you have it ...like the rotary blade sharpener I purchased, needles you have I purchase...YOU have taught me sew much of what is available as a new quilter...still less than 1.5 yrs...I have a lot to learn.. ok. how is that? lol

    ReplyDelete
  38. Kelly, I read your blog because of your product reviews and advice. I have made a couple of purchases from IHAN and the customer service is great! On my wish list is the Beam n Read (need to save some money or see if Santa brings one.) However, I do like to shop locally when I can.

    ReplyDelete
  39. I feel your pain. Since I've become addicted to blog reading I have spread lots more money around. That's part of the problem. You only spend a little at a whole variety of places. Most online shops are so specialized or carry so few things you don't get everything you want.
    On the other hand, I don't want to buy only in large box stores. I boycott Wxxx. I love doing my part in keeping local small stores open.
    You have the market on tools and accessories. I love your demos and have learned a lot. I was surprised at your big investment in threads for machine emboidered. Seems like a narrow niche to me. The biggest groans when we receive a product from the Internet is color.

    ReplyDelete
  40. I guess I ran out of room. I may be the only person who feels like this, but I hate to order only one thing and pay shipping on it. I always feel I need to order more to make it worthwhile. I dont always need or can justify more and therefore don't order anything. I am ALWAYS enticed by free shipping. I know that's not feasible for the seller but shipping is a deterrent for the buyer.

    ReplyDelete
  41. I enjoy reading your blog but have never bought anything from you. I think it's primarily a matter of money (which is tight for all of us these days). More sales/deals would probably entice me and/or free shipping.
    Keep up the good work - it sounds like you are juggling a lot of balls in the air
    Happy holidays!

    ReplyDelete
  42. I love that your blog always seems to have the newest great sewing/quilting notion. I love the fact that you actually try out the products before you write about them. I also love your incredible generosity--you are always giving away fabulous gifts to your readers. Thank you for sharing and educating us on what's new.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Kelly, I like to buy from you for several reasons. First, you treat your customers like friends, instead of a number. I love your products and your prices. You a just a jewel to do business with. Cheers!

    ReplyDelete
  44. I can't say that I bought anything yet but I love your blog. I love your sense of humor and how articulate you are on your blog. I love your advice when you email me back about something I noted in my comments. If I do need a gadget I will check your shop first. Right now my budget is limited and gadgets are not on it. Keep up the good work and keep giving great advice.

    ReplyDelete
  45. I haven't ordered from your website as of yet, but I do love reading your blog posts and reviews. My ordering challenge is living in Canada, which means the cost of shipping and potential duties often outweigh the advantages of your lower prices. However, I do keep an eye on things and comparative shop and have bookmarked a few thing I hope to buy after Christmas. All in all, you have a nice shop,easy to peruse and I LOVE the product reviews!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Kelly -- I love your honest reviews about products. Honesty like that is hard to find in today's business world! Thanks for doing that! : )

    ReplyDelete
  47. I really enjoy your blog with all the great information you provide. I take a look at your shop weekly, however, i have never bought anything. Since I live in Canada what stops me from buying from your site is that there isn't any information on "international" shipping just the extra 2.50 and to e-mail you. So call me the average lazy shopper that wants to buy now and not send an e-mail to get shipping prices and then order later. I think your prices are really good, but when shipping prices are not listed i think "going to be very pricey" and buy somewhere else. For example I just bought 1 accuquilt go die, 2 cutting mats and thread from two Canadian sites that were charging more than you with $12 S&h since i assumed your S&h would be more i bought from them instead. That might make me an idiot(lol)but I think that is how a lot of people shop too...or i'm just an idiot...lol I hope none of that came across as mean! I would really like to buy from you, but that is what is holding me back :)

    ReplyDelete
  48. I read your blog because you write very interesting articles and present the facts about the products you write about. You have been instrumental in several of my purchases, including the wonderful ruler holder and shelf that you provided information on where to buy it. I don't buy a lot from you because of limited funds, but I do share the knowledge I have gained from reading your articles with others. I think of you as the Consumer Reports for Sewing and Quilting notions, lol. You do a great job! Don't change a thing.

    ReplyDelete
  49. Although I have yet to purchase anything from IHAN, I do enjoy your blog. So very down to earth and honest. I honestly don't know how you can improve it but I appreciate your asking for suggestions.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Kelly, I haven't purchased from you (yet) but that is mainly because I try to support my local quilt shops to help keep them in business. When I do shop online, because I can't find what I want or need locally, I compare prices (including shipping costs), look for sales and free shipping offers and only buy when I feel I'm getting the best deal out there. I do appreciate your honest reviews and look forward to reading your blog posts. :o)

    ReplyDelete
  51. i purchase when you post about something i cannot resist! i follow your blog for your posts ... they're interesting, informative; you give good reviews.

    ReplyDelete
  52. I love your evaluation on products. It's informative yet light and entertaining. I've read and seen products that I hadn't seen or heard of and have actually purchased quite a few items you highly recommended and have not been disappointed.

    ReplyDelete
  53. I appreciate everytime you post a recommendation on this site. The only thing for me is that the layout of your site doesn't really scream to me what you're about.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Your reviews are the best. And very interesting BLOGS. Your prices are great too. No complaints here! Looks like it will be a nice giveaway.

    ReplyDelete
  55. I truly enjoy your blog, and began reading it when I met you at my quilt guild. You are a pleasure in person AND online! But honestly, I don't buy much because I HAVE so much in my stash: books, patterns, gizmos and fabric. All I need is time to use it all. Don't take my non-purchasing personally....

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hi, Kelly. I really do enjoy reading your blog, and I especially like this entry. I confess that I have not yet purchased from you, but I have come close. I have my eye on a couple of things, but I keep putting of the purchase for various reasons.

    ReplyDelete
  57. I have bought from u & have not been disappointed...you even researched something i asked u about before u sold it to me..God bless u & your family

    Merry Christmas!

    ReplyDelete
  58. You gave the best review, very personal in customer service, helpful and sincere. I enjoy reading your blog.

    ReplyDelete
  59. I love reading all of your product reviews but have only recently purchased from your website. I have been on a personal no-buy hiatus but I like supporting business like yours. I do look at my local quilt stores for what I need first though before resorting to internet purchases.

    ReplyDelete
  60. I buy from IHAN because of you--your enthusiasm about the products you sell and the detailed reviews you give about a new item, reviews I know I can trust. You do some of the footwork in seeking out new things in the quilting world that I don't have time to look for and then you ask the questions I would like to ask about them,and some I wouldn't have thought to ask--or had the courage to ask. And I keep buying things from you that our local quilt store doesn't carry because your prices are more than fair and your service is super. Besides, I want to keep you in business so that the inimitable Kelly Jackson blog humor will continue to make me smile.

    ReplyDelete
  61. Although I am not quilting at this time I still take the time to read your blog, nearly daily. It gives me a lift! I love your reviews and your mention of various prominent quilters. Now when I go into shops I recognize the names you have reviewed since the start of IHAN. I love my lamp, my seam ripper, and my gloves and of course the service is THE BEST! I have found navigating your notions store a little difficult in the past. I knew you had certain gadgets but I had problems finding which category they were in. Maybe a table of contents/index that is alphabetical that would lead one to the object would be helpful, not sure. You know I love seeing the boys and Mr. McSteamy in your photos. I am able to keep up with the happenings at your house and see the growth of the boys. Keep doing what you have been doing and your business will grow as it has already. Your personality, quirky as may seem to some, draws others to you. Have to admit, I'm one of those people. I just love your humor and at the end of a day it is just what I need!

    ReplyDelete
  62. I love your site and I love your product reviews as many times I do not even know a product exists until I read about it on your blog. We have had to majorly downsize and therefore I cannot buy much anymore, but I make lists and eventually buy a thing or two. I love your honesty and personality that shines through your posts. I really cannot think of anything of how to improve your site other than having a once price shipping on specials ie maybe on Mondays everything ships for $5.00 or whatever amount that would make sense. Thanks for the giveaway chance!

    ReplyDelete
  63. Kelly-you have a great blog and I love your sense of humor. You truly seem to have fun with what you are doing, and that shines through everything you write. You keep us aware of what's new. My shopping does not include e-shopping in general, but I also have an awesome local store (Quilt Patch, Tecumseh MI). You're close--come visit! Thanks for your blog. I really enjoy seeing life through your eyes!

    ReplyDelete
  64. Hi Kelly, I just want to say thanks for such a fun site! I love reading about the latest and greatest products in the industry and it's wonderful to 'meet' the people behind the products. You do give such an honest appraisal of the items, also. Your service is fast and I have loved everything I've purchased. Thanks so much!

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hi Kelly I am new to your blog. This post really resonated with me. I have not shopped with you, however, I will certainly take a look now. Thanks for your post.

    ReplyDelete
  66. I try and buy from IHAN because I know things that are offered have been tried out and value Kelly's opinion. You can always email her with questions and get honest answers and help. I just wish I had more money to spend! LOL

    Rosemary

    ReplyDelete
  67. I try and buy from IHAN because I know things that are offered have been tried out and value Kelly's opinion. You can always email her with questions and get honest answers and help. I just wish I had more money to spend! LOL

    Rosemary

    ReplyDelete
  68. Hello Kelly - I am a customer and visit your blog every day (love love love it) as I have a passion of doo-dads! LOL! I love your personal attention and dealing with AN INDIVIDUAL as opposed to a faceless company. Thank you! As for suggestions to make your shop better I just have two little ones. One - Time is short for me, so I would much prefer to see more items on a page without having to keep paging through multiple pages. For me, it is annoying. Two - I know this would be very time consuming ... but big clear pics of items would be very nice. I have found several times that I have had to go Googling to find a nice big clear image of something you have in your store to see if I really wanted it or not ... and found a better price or shipping rate in the process. So a large pic would have kept me here. Just sayin. :)

    ReplyDelete
  69. I buy a lot of fabric online, but for notions I usually go to my LQS where the owner treats me like a friend. I do love seeing new tools in person. I have enjoyed learning from your blog and you seem like a sincere and knowledgeable person. I would definitely purchase from you over other websites if there was something my LQS couldn't get for me.

    ReplyDelete
  70. I love the information you give about products. I live in the UK so find customs charges extortionate when buying from the States. I recently bought a McKenna Ryan Quilt Kit from another shop in the States and the customs charges were £62.00!!!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  71. Your sincerity comes through in your blog, I've come to trust your reviews because I feel they are completely honest, not a chance to push something you sell. I haven't bought a lot from you, but when I needed a gift certificate for a blog hop, you were the one I turned to, I feel a real trust for you and I wanted to introduce someone else to your shop and I guess I wanted to help you pay your mortgage :).

    ReplyDelete
  72. I found a link to your site on Quiltingboard.com and must say I like the way you have it set up ! The member was commenting on your wooden hanging slot ruler holder and she is correct it is GREAT :) Will have to come back when I have more time to search and read

    ReplyDelete
  73. For me it's because of my lack of budget! Thare are several lovely things I'd love to own from your website I just don't have the budget to purchase them (from you or anybody else at the moment, lol). I LOVE your reviews that you do on products. I find them both honest and informative. I hope to be able to purchase from your website in the future! Thank you for doing what you do!

    ReplyDelete
  74. I'm a "newer" IHAN shopper, and what got me there was a gift with purchase. What will keep me coming back is you. It's a great thing about reading blogs - you feel like you really know the blogger.

    Keep it up!

    ReplyDelete
  75. I, too, love your reviews. I bought a velocity steam iron b/c of you. However I got it thru Amazon b/c I had a gift card to help me out. I don't buy a lot of stuff online b/c of shipping cost. But b/c our quilt stores in the area have closed, I probably will buy more online. Keep up the good work with your entertaining blog site.

    ReplyDelete
  76. What I love about your shop, is the same thing I love about your blog. Honesty. Your reviews are priceless, because I know you're going to give the product a fair shake but explore it's limits. You have no hidden agenda with your reviews. The same is with my shopping experience with IHAN. No hidden agenda's. Products shipped super fast, and packaged like you would want someone to send you your Great Aunt Gertie's last remaining piece of china. All I can say, is, if you can get it from Kelly, get it from Kelly. She doesn't sell disappointment. On a side note, use # 142 for my Beam and Read light, is the "Beam and Bust Santa" scheme my 4 yr old has planned for Christmas eve. I think he's been watching too much Phineas and Ferb! Happy Holidays!

    ReplyDelete
  77. Shopping anywhere abroad from South Africa is always somewhat nerve wracking. Where do you start the fight when you don’t get what you ordered after you paid? So I read this blog by this lady, Kelly, and the more I read the more I realized….. this person is REAL! Somewhat crazy at times but very real and I took a chance and ordered from her. Not only got my parcel in perfect condition but included was a little card thanking me for my order and promising to solve any purchase problems I might have. WOW!! That wanted to be done.
    So yes Kelly, I will recommend shopping at IHAN to anyone (already did if you can remember a Karin from South Africa?) for a save, accurate and secure transaction.
    Keep up the good (hard) work.

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for reading the IHAN Blog. I love getting and reading every comment that is left here; however I may not be able to respond to all comments left during giveaways. There are times when I am juggling many tasks at one time and may not reply to all comments. Please e-mail me at quiltnotions@gmail.com if you need a reply quickly. I thank you for your understanding and-
More Later-Beth

Translate

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...