How to ask the RIGHT questions to ChaptGPT to get the best results!

Here are a few tips straight from the source for asking ChatGPT the right questions to get the best answers:

1. Be clear and specific: When asking a question, be as clear and specific as possible. This will help ChatGPT to understand what you're looking for and provide more accurate and relevant answers.

2. Use appropriate language: ChatGPT is a language model, so it's important to use appropriate language when asking questions. Avoid using slang or overly complex language that may be difficult for the model to understand.

3. Provide context: Providing context for your question can help ChatGPT to provide more accurate and relevant answers. For example, if you're asking a question about a specific topic, provide some background information to help ChatGPT understand the context of your question.

4. Ask follow-up questions: If you're not sure about an answer or need more information, ask follow-up questions to clarify your understanding. ChatGPT is designed to provide conversational responses, so feel free to ask as many questions as you need to get the information you're looking for.

5. Break down complex questions: If you need to ask a complex question, break it down into smaller, more manageable parts. This can help ChatGPT to better understand your question and provide a more accurate response.

6. Avoid ambiguity: Be specific in your question and avoid ambiguous language. This can help ChatGPT to understand exactly what you're asking and provide a more relevant response.

7. Be respectful: Remember that ChatGPT is an AI language model, and it's important to be respectful in your interactions. Avoid using offensive language or asking inappropriate questions, as this can undermine the quality of the responses you receive.

What are the ways in which you can give ChatGPT context?

There are several ways to provide context to ChatGPT when asking a question:

1. Background information: Provide some background information about the topic you're asking about. This can help ChatGPT understand the context of your question and provide a more relevant response.

2. Examples: Give examples to illustrate your question or provide more information. This can help ChatGPT to better understand what you're asking and provide a more accurate response.

3. Related topics: If your question is related to another topic or concept, mention it in your question. This can help ChatGPT to provide a more relevant answer based on the related topic.

4. Keywords: Use relevant keywords in your question to provide more context. For example, if you're asking about a specific product or service, include the name of the product or service in your question.

5. Tone: Use a clear and concise tone when asking your question. This can help ChatGPT to understand what you're asking and provide a more accurate response.

6. Use specific qualifiers: Use qualifiers like "best," "worst," "most," "least," and "highest," to help specify the type of information you're looking for. This can help narrow down the focus of your question and provide a more targeted response.

Does using multiple keywords in my question for ChatGPT help me get a better answer?

Using multiple keywords in your question can be helpful in some cases, as it can help ChatGPT to better understand the context of your question and provide you with a more accurate response. However, it is important to use relevant keywords that are directly related to your question, rather than using irrelevant or extraneous keywords that may only serve to confuse ChatGPT.

Here are some tips for using keywords effectively when asking questions on ChatGPT:

1. Be specific: Use keywords that are specific to the topic you are asking about. This can help to ensure that ChatGPT understands the context of your question and provides you with a relevant response.

2. Use synonyms: Try using synonyms for your keywords to broaden your search and increase the chances of finding relevant information.

3. Don't overdo it: While using multiple keywords can be helpful, don't overdo it. Using too many keywords or irrelevant keywords can lead to inaccurate or irrelevant responses from ChatGPT.

4. Use natural language: When asking a question, use natural language that closely resembles how you would ask the question if you were speaking to a person. This can help ChatGPT better understand your intent and provide you with a more accurate response.

Providing context to ChatGPT can help improve the accuracy and relevance of its responses. By giving background information, examples, related topics, keywords, and using a clear tone, you can ensure that ChatGPT understands your question and provides a useful answer. Be clear, concise, and specific with your questions and don’t forget to be kind. Enjoy playing with this powerful tool. These helpful tips will get you the best results. With ChatGPT, the world is your oyster.

Building Your Website with Squarespace

In today's world, having a website has become an essential part for any business or individual looking to establish a presence online. A website can serve as a digital storefront, a way to showcase your work or skills, or a platform to share your ideas and opinions with the world. With so many website building platforms available, it can be overwhelming to choose one that meets your specific needs.

Why Squarespace?

Basia here. I would like to take a moment and rave about Squarespace. I have built websites on several different platforms including Wix, Shopify and Wordpress. These platforms are probably my top choices compared to other platforms I’ve used in the past, however they do not hold a candle to Squarespace.

With Squarespace, you can easily create a website that looks and feels professional, and you won’t have to worry about hosting, security, or any of the other hassles that come with running a website. It’s easy to use (with a shorter learning curve than other platforms) and their support is unlike any other!

I love it so much that I am an affiliate: Go to squarespace and Use the code BASIA at check-out to receive 20% off your annual subscription (for your first year).

Read on to see 8 reasons why I love Squarespace…

8 Reasons Why I Love Squarespace

1. Easy to use

   One of the most significant benefits of using Squarespace is its ease of use. Yes, there is a learning curve, like with any new platform or app. BUT! compared to any other site I’ve used, this has left me the least amount of frustration (by far). They have a drag-and-drop interface which makes it simple to design and customize your website without any coding knowledge. It also offers a variety of templates to choose from, allowing you to create a professional-looking website quickly and makes learning the platform super easy.

2. Professional templates

   Pretty much all websites come with a bunch of templates these days. Squarespace makes it easy to choose one according to what you want to do (i.e. art portfolio, e-commerce store, blogger or influencer etc…). Once you choose one, it’s drag and drop from there. These templates are designed to be responsive, meaning they will adjust to the screen size of the device being used to view your website, ensuring that it looks great on any device - bonus!

3. E-commerce capabilities

   Squarespace makes it easy to set up an online store, allowing you to sell physical or digital products, subscriptions, and services. Squarespace's e-commerce capabilities include inventory management, order tracking, and shipping integration with leading carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx. Squarespace also supports multiple payment options, including credit card payments and PayPal. What is really cool too is that you can integrate any products throughout your site. Meaning you can insert a product beautifully into a blog post or your home page if you want. No need to keep the shop front the only place to promote your stuff.

4. Search engine optimization (SEO)

   This is a BIG one! If you don’t know what SEO is or why it’s so important, read my blog post on justpinit.ca —> What is SEO and why is it so important? Squarespace is designed with SEO in mind! Your website will be optimized for search engines right out of the box. Squarespace's templates use clean code and are optimized for mobile devices, both of which can improve your website's search engine rankings. Squarespace also offers features such as customizable page titles, meta descriptions, and URLs, which can further improve your SEO. These features are super simple and clear to use so you do not have to learn a whole new language or a separate platform.

5. Built-in analytics

   Squarespace offers built-in analytics that allow you to track your website's performance, including metrics such as page views, unique visitors, and bounce rate. These insights can help you understand how your website is performing and make data-driven decisions to improve it.

6. Squarespace is cloud-based

   All of the website building tools and resources are hosted on Squarespace's servers, rather than on your local computer. What does that mean?

   • There are no software installations required. All you need is an internet connection.

   • Automatic updates. You don't need to worry about manually updating your website builder or plugins to ensure they are up to date.

   • Scalability. If your website grows in popularity and starts to receive more traffic, Squarespace can handle the increased demand without any additional work on your end.

   • Security. The company employs advanced security measures to protect its servers and user data, including SSL encryption and regular backups.

7. Updating your website on the go

   The app for the platforms itself is amazing - I am able to change (using the squarespace app on my phone) the price of a product while I was out and about. I was able to edit a link and spelling mistake in one of my blog posts directly from my phone! I can check the analytics from my phone and orders coming. I can even refund a customer immediately from the app on my phone without opening up my computer!! This accessibility has saved me so much stress when I was not around my computer and needed to make immediate changes.

8. Support

   Squarespace offers 24/7 live support to its users, making it even easier to get help when you need it. You can contact them via live chat or email, and they will respond promptly to help you resolve any issues you may be experiencing. This level of support can be particularly helpful for individuals or businesses that are new to website building and may need some guidance along the way.

   Before I use their live support when I get stuck, I simply google my question. Often I am lead to the Squarespace forum but there is also a lot of information sharing on YouTube (if you prefer to watch versus read - especially when working in a place you don’t understand, watching people solve problems is very useful). There are loads of people using squarespace which makes solving your problems easier by having a large pool of people willing to help!

I seriously love Squarespace.

Their older version (7.0) was a little more simple and easier to use than the 7.1 version that is currently available, but even this newest version is easier to navigate and problem solve, compared to any other platform I’ve used before.

Here’s how I can help you save money:

Use the code BASIA at check-out and you will receive 20% off your annual subscription (for your first year).

Embracing the New Year: A Guide to Setting Goals

As the New Year approaches, the air fills with a sense of renewal and opportunity. It's a time when many of us reflect on the past year's journey and set our sights on what lies ahead. Setting goals for the New Year is a tradition as old as time, serving as a catalyst for personal growth and achievement. But how do we set goals that inspire us, push us forward, and are realistically achievable?

A great podcast to listen to is by Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist and professor, who makes goal setting less intimidating and more impactful. Take a listen here: The Science of Setting & Achieving Goals and read on!

Here's a guide, with the help of our own experiences, Burn Club Plussers experiences, and Hubermans expertise to setting meaningful goals for the New Year:

Reflect on the Past, Envision the Future

Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on the past year. Really block out time here from all distractions and find yourself a quiet spot to think. What were your successes and setbacks? What lessons did you learn? Reflection provides valuable insights that can shape your future goals.

Envision what you want the upcoming year to look like. Imagine the accomplishments, the personal growth, and the happiness you wish to achieve. Huberman emphasizes the importance of having clear, defined goals. He suggests visualizing not just the end goal but the process required to achieve it. This mental rehearsal can prepare the mind and body for the tasks ahead and increase the likelihood of success.

Personally, this exersize of visualization really helped clarify the larger goals and all its smaller steps. It can be in the form of a mental exersize, a Pinterest collage, or even a magazine collage. Whatever works for you to really see what you want clearly.

Set SMART Goals

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework helps in setting clear and attainable objectives. For example, instead of saying, "I want to be healthier," a SMART goal would be, "I want to exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week, and eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily."

Break Bigger Goals into Actionable Steps

Large goals can often seem daunting. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. If your goal is to write a book, start with writing a certain number of words each day or outline one chapter per week. Small steps lead to big achievements over time and provide the opportunity to celebrate along the way!

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation, plays a significant role in goal setting and achievement. Huberman advises understanding how to manage and optimize dopamine levels through rewarding progress, breaking down goals into smaller, achievable tasks, and maintaining a balance between challenge and reward.

He also discusses how moderate stress can be beneficial in the context of goal setting. It can enhance focus and performance, acting as a motivator. However, managing stress levels is crucial, as too much stress can be counterproductive. Along with self care and life balance, breaking up goals can be a great way to manage the stress and not overwhelm oneself with a large goal.

Hold Yourself Accountable

Keep track of your progress and celebrate small victories along the way. Consider maintaining a journal or using an app to monitor your journey towards your goals. Or if you, like me, prefer using the old fashion pen and paper, try an accountability tracker. Not only is it satisfying to mark off each day’s goals, but it is also a visual reminder of your progress

Click here for the radial symmetry Trackers we use (like you see here).

Dr. Andrew Huberman emphasizes the importance of strategic goal setting and accountability. According to Huberman, sharing goals with others can sometimes trigger a premature sense of accomplishment, reducing the drive to actually achieve the goal. He suggests a more nuanced approach: share your goals selectively with those who can offer constructive feedback or support, rather than seeking widespread validation.

Huberman also highlights the value of internal accountability, where setting clear, measurable objectives and regularly reviewing progress can significantly enhance motivation and likelihood of success. He encourages individuals to leverage the brain's reward system by celebrating small wins along the way, which can sustain momentum and foster a sense of achievement throughout the journey toward larger goals. By understanding the neurological and psychological aspects of goal setting and accountability, individuals can tailor their approach for maximum effectiveness and personal fulfillment.

Prioritize Self-Care

While pursuing goals, remember to prioritize your well-being. Set goals that encourage a balanced life, incorporating elements of work, rest, play, and personal growth.

In his podcast, Huberman speaks about creating an environment conducive to success. This includes managing distractions, ensuring adequate sleep for brain function, and considering the timing of tasks aligned with individual circadian rhythms.

Self-care isn't just about relaxation; it's about doing what's necessary to maintain your mental, emotional, and physical health.

Embrace Flexibility

Life is unpredictable, and your path to achieving goals may need to adjust. Be flexible and open to change. It's important to remember that the path to any worthwhile achievement is often laden with obstacles and setbacks. Rather than viewing these as failures, consider them part of the learning and growth process.

If an approach isn't working, pivot and try something new. Flexibility helps you stay resilient and persistent.

Stay Positive and Patient

Goal setting is an optimistic endeavor. Stay positive and patient with yourself. Some goals will require more time and effort than anticipated. Embrace the journey, learn from the process, and keep pushing forward.

One thing Basia loves to do is create affirmations that she can personalize using Canva. She have them show up on her phone so she can be reminded about her goals, ambitions or just to provide a little motivation everyday to keep at it. Check out her blog post on How to Create a Set of Themed Affirmations in Canva.

As you embark on this New Year, remember that setting goals is about more than just listing desires—it's about creating a roadmap for a fulfilling year ahead. It's about understanding where you are, deciding where you want to be, and taking proactive steps to get there. With thoughtful planning, commitment, and a positive mindset, you're well on your way to making this New Year a truly transformative one.

Remember also that goal setting isn't only confined to the start of a new year; it's a beneficial practice that can be undertaken at any time. Engaging in goal setting sessions throughout the year allows for continuous growth, adaptation to change, and the ability to seize the moment whenever inspiration strikes.

Happy goal setting!

How to Name Your Artwork

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David and Renee are the double-duo behind It's David and Renee and specialize in creating sustainably sourced, specialty wood surfaces for other artists to use as a canvas for their own art. They also create thier own fine art pieces, including multi-media pyrography and artisan woodcraft.

Renee of @itsdavidandrenee is such a fabulous pyrographer and person.

Her pyrography is BOLD! Her color choices and sparkle factors alone speak for themselves.

Do yourself a huge favor and follow this wonderful human and artist. Let’s help support her and her husband, David, their art and their delicious wood slice canvases!

Find It’s David and Renee on:

Instagram, Facebook Pinterest, TikTok and their website!

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Playing the Name Game with Wood Art: Using the Best Descriptive Words to Elevate You Art in the Mind’s Eye

Guest blog post by Renee of @itsdavidandrenee

So, you’ve made some wood art and now you have to give your piece a name. Whether you’re naming your art based off the subject matter, such as “Whimsical Ladybugs in a Coneflower Garden” or “The Queen’s Crown” or whatever it may be, OR you’re writing a descriptive title of your piece to go into a gallery, there are steps you must take to achieve a solid, effective title that communicates the best properties of your art.

Here are 5 things you should consider when choosing a name for your art:

We’ll dive deep into all five tips below.

1. Use sensory adjectives

2. Write as if they already have the art in their hands

3. Don’t assume they’ll notice the details

4. Describe the wood canvas, not just the artwork design

5. Describe the artwork design or subject matter

Use Sensory Adjectives

Sensory words are a MUST! Describing art can be tricky depending on how the art is meant to be consumed. A large art installment full of textiles you can touch and feel is different than a somber war memorial installment, a modern light show, Van Gogh’s Immersive Experiences, or sidewalk chalk art. Even still, those are entirely different than your piece of wood art. Most people are going to be using sight and touch for your wood art, not taste, sound, or smell, so using strong visual sensory adjectives is KEY!

Write as if They Already Have the Art in Their Hands

Pretend someone walks into a gift shop and picks up your artwork to ooo and awe over it! Put yourself in their shoes. What are they looking at? What’s the first thing they notice? How does it feel in their hands? Is it physically smooth? Does it have delicate bark chipping off? Is it a large, heavy wood slice? If they’re looking at it up close and personal, what are they seeing? Are they seeing the crispness of your lines? The glitter, shimmer, and shine of your metallic paint? Are they experiencing the iridescence of holographic foil? Are they embracing the textures of the various fibers in your fiber art? Consider what their “pretend” in-person experience of holding your art is like, and use those descriptors in your online descriptions. Make your customer imagine holding your art in their hands.

Don’t Assume They’ll Notice the Details 

Do NOT assume they’ll notice all those above details you worked so hard to achieve. What some people notice, others won’t. Not everyone experiences art the same way. Describe all those details you’re so proud of!

Just like in the above example, you’re going to want to tell them what they’re looking at., even if you think it sounds silly. Example: “When holding this brilliantly vibrant piece in your hands, you’ll notice how the dancing glitter shimmers and shines in the light. The glitter within these paints brings a depth to the pigments that can be truly appreciated when holding this piece at book-reading distance. You’ll also notice the physically indented texture of the woodburned lines and crisp stippled dots when you run your fingers over the textured areas.”

Point out those details! They will appreciate the senses of enjoying your work in person, even if they’re reading your description from the other side of the screen.

Describe the Wood Canvas, Not Just the Artwork Design

Wood canvases are super special and unique, because they themselves have their own characteristics- species, color, shape, thickness, surface texture, grain patterns, smoothness, chatoyance, etc. You should be describing these characteristics and how they play into your artwork, both in your title and in the written description.

People who utilize the standard white canvases from the craft stores usually don’t describe their canvas, because those canvases aren’t unique and don’t play into the effect of the painting. They almost all have the same texture, they all have a wooden frame behind them, and honestly, they’re just plain. Someone can say “canvas,” and you already know what that looks like. It’s already in your mind’s eye. You would just be describing the artwork that you put on the canvas, like “oil painting on canvas” or “fiber art mixed media on canvas.”

But when someone says “wood,” what do you automatically imagine? Rustic basswood? Refined cherry? There are so many varieties and possibilities that it’s guaranteed everyone will imagine something different.

There is a whole world of wood. “Acrylic painting on wood.” What does that tell you? NADA. What kind of wood? Can you even tell your artwork is on wood? Does the wood have live edge bark? Is it a crisp, clean cut piece of wood? GIMME THE DEETS! Is it thick, like ¾”, or is it a thin slice of birch plywood? Your people need to know. Your people should be able to imagine this piece of wood without looking at it.

“Pyrography on wood.”

Absolutely not. Needs waaaayyyy more.

“Pyrography on Maple.”

Nope, still needs more. Describe that Maple.

“Pyrography on an Ambrosia Maple panel.”

More. What does the panel look like? Does it have bark? What shape is it? Is it a round wood slice? Is it a clean-cut panel? More.

“Pyrography on a low-profile, 8” square Ambrosia Maple wood panel.”

Much better! You described the shape, the size, the species, and its side profile (meaning how far it sticks out from the wall).

“Pyrography on a small, round live-edge Basswood wood slice.”

Yep! This is pretty good. Again, you described the shape, the relative size, the species, and its bark features.

I would say those titles are not too wordy but not too stingy on descriptors.

Describe the Artwork Design or Subject Matter

In the above example, we’re using “pyrography,” so let’s continue with that. We need to expand the “pyrography” part of the name. Is your pyro art colored or painted? Is it mixed media? What is an adjective you would use to describe this piece? What is the subject matter of your art? A crazy-colored symmetrical mandala is obviously a way different subject matter than a sepia-toned realistic dog portrait.

*Visually-descriptive adjectives have entered the chat*

Let’s get our list of adjectives out. What does it LOOK like? What kinds of words would you use to describe your art to your grandmother over the phone?

You: “Hi Memaw! Yes ma’am, I’m good. I made some new art. What kind of art? Well, um. It’s woodburned art, I do woodburning.”

Your Memaw: *Doesn’t really know what that means and imagines her living room fireplace with burnt logs.* “Oh, you burn wood? Well that’s… nice.”

This lack of description is confusing to your Memaw. You gotta describe it to her as if you’re in a museum describing it.

When I was in college, I was a professional note-taker for the visually- and hearing-impaired students through the Office of Disabilities. I went to classes that had deaf or blind students, and took notes for them. I got really good at descriptors and adjectives when I was assigned to an art history class and took notes of all the famous art. My visually-impaired clients needed to be able to read my notes out-loud through their computer programs to study later on, so it was my job to make sure I communicated details very effectively. This is the same concept here. Describe your art to someone who is not looking at it.

Here are a few examples:

Vibrant, Dark, Shadowy, Moody, Technicolor, Bright, Playful, Geometric, Detailed, Realistic, Contrasting, Lively, Muted, Monochromatic, Symmetrical, Abstract, Mystical

And the list goes on and on. (This would be a great time to make your own list of adjectives!)

Anyway, back to the example.

We ended #4’s example with “Pyrography on a low-profile, 8” square Ambrosia Maple wood panel.” Let’s use that crazy-colored symmetrical mandala subject matter I mentioned, too. Let’s say the center of the mandala is centered in the middle of the square, and the mandala has vibrant, shimmery pink and purple paints neatly painted in the curves and motifs of the mandala, alternating between the various shades of pinks and purples and radiating out to the edge of the mandala. The negative space around the mandala is just the natural wood with no paint.

To me, in my head, I imagine this piece as very bright, starkly eye-catching, crisp and clean, vibrant and radiant, with even lines, perfectly-spaced swirls and motifs that centrically expand from the center of the mandala. I see these shimmery pink and purple paints catching the sunlight juuuust right, making them seem like they’re glowing from the wood.

“Pyrography on wood” just doesn’t cut it.

“Mandala pyrography.”

Nope. It’s so much more than that. Describe it.

“Symmetrical mandala pyrography.”

Ehh. Closer, but that still isn’t capturing the essence of the piece. DEETS! I NEED THE DEETS!

“Radiant, symmetrical mandala mixed-media pyrography art handburned on a low-profile, 8” square Ambrosia Maple wood panel.”

YES. YESYESYESYES. This is perfect. You have now described the art’s physical appearance (radiant), the subject matter (symmetrical mandala), the media (pyrography and mixed-media), the method of creation (you, “handburned”), the medium (the wood) and the details of the wood. 

I would say to follow this Krabby Patty secret formula every time, however, there will always be exceptions to this rule. If you feel like this is too wordy, maybe change out the adjectives to shorten it. If you feel it needs more for your piece, then add a little more.

And remember, if you’re writing a longer description underneath your title or in the description box on your website, you can add more details there. Do what feels right for you and your style of writing, but don’t sell yourself short.

Words are Powerful

To sum it all up, words are powerful. Language evokes the senses. Use your words the best you can to convey the best name, title, and/or description possible.

Make your people envision your art in their head by using sensory words and specific, descriptive adjectives. Put yourself in your customers’ shoes and play pretend. What they notice, feel, see, and experience can be captured in a great description. Play the name game with your wood art. Put just as much effort into naming and describing your art as you did into designing and creating your art. Your website visitors, in-person shoppers, gallery viewers, and whoever else will notice and appreciate these details.

Interview with Kristyn Burney - Creative Business Mentor and Coach

Kristyn Burney is a gem and such an inspiration!

Listen in o this interview and learn how she built several 6 figure business, manages family life and coaches others to do the same. This is how to dream big and go for those goals!

Find Kristyn Burney on Instagram for loads of tips and tricks for entrepreneurs and and shop super cool door mats on her Etsy shop!

"Go with the flow of what is energetically right for you".

This interview was created for Burn Club+ in 2020, and was just now released to the public.

Grow with the community and get first access to interviews, exclusive tutorials and lessons by joining Burn Club+, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning.

The Pyrography + Business Summit

the ONE and only Pyrography + Business Summit!

There were 39 live classes with 35 well known presenters from all over the globe. We learned so much from pyro experts with the live wood burning masterclasses, panel discussions that dive into pyrography and panel discussions on business, plus interviews, community chats + challenges.

Everything pyrography + business.

If you weren’t able to join us live, you can always watch the recordings at your own pace!

30+ Pyrography and Business CLASSES:

PYROGRAPHY

Introduction to Wood Burning

Safety + Transfer Techniques

Pyrography Books Discussion

Wood Burning Tools

Tools of the Trade

Wood + Other Surfaces

Adding Color

Finishes

8 Masterclasses on Pyrography Techniques

Burn-Alongs with Expert Pyrographers

Panel Discussion on Pyrography

Interviews

BUSINESS

Goal Setting + Finding Focus

Business Books Discussion

Making Money as an Artist

Selling Online + In-person

Teaching Classes

Email Marketing

Websites + E-commerce

Pricing Your Art

Photography and Videography

Social Media + Pinterest

Live Coaching Sessions

Business Panel Discussion

Interviews

Also, Check out #pyrosummit on insta to see what people have taken away from this awesome event!

This Summit is basically one huge collaboration, and we are all so pumped to have completed it in 2022!

Interview With Tom Ross

Tom Ross of and shares so much valuable information specifically for creatives and their businesses and how important building a community is for the business to thrive. He talks about how to get REAL followers and find your targeted audience, how to build a community around your business and how to make your business grow!

Just listen in on all the great advice he gives and start implementing these actions today!

You can find Tom @tomrossmedia + @designcuts

Visit his website: tomross.co

Sign up for his coaching

Listen to his Podcast

Take a listen to the interview with Tom from Tom Toss Media:

This interview was created for Burn Club+ in 2020, and was just now released to the public.

Grow with the community and get first access to interviews, exclusive tutorials and lessons by joining Burn Club+, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning.

Passive Income Ideas for Artists

what is passive income?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) says passive income can come from two sources: rental property or a business in which one does not actively participate, such as being paid book royalties or stock dividends. It's income that takes little or no effort to bring in. There are many different ways to accomplish this and I’m going to give you some great options if you are an artist/creative.

Make money while you sleep!

This doesn’t mean you won’t have to do any work for it at all.

Initially you will need to spend some time getting it set up and often it helps to invest some time into marketing it once in a while. It just means you put in most of the work upfront (with some possible maintenance and refreshing in the future) and then let it make you money.

Top three easy passive income ideas for artists

1. Prints

   Scan or photograph your work and post it as a digital product somewhere like your website. Ensure you have stellar photos and high quality scans.

   For a really hands-off approach, another platform like Artsy, Saatchi, Artpal, Society 6, Etsy, Singulart, VISUAL. They do the printing and shipping for you. Often, their audience can find you through the platform itself.

   The larger your audience, outside of the platform, the better your prints will do. It will help to talk about them on social media or on your website if you are getting traffic there.

   This is a great supplement to your art sales, and provides your audience with a more affordable option for becoming a collector of yours.

   Consider selling your art as an NFT if you understand that world!

2. Teach Online

   Make an online course. Record it once and upload it online.

   There are many options here. You can upload it to your website (directly on your site or via platforms like teachery) and sell it yourself. This way is not as hands-off, because you will need to market it and talk about it for people to know it exists and thus purchase it.

   The second option is to upload it to a third party platform that includes an audience like skilllshare, domestika, etc. They do the marketing for you and already have a client-base. You can (and should) boost the exposure and market it yourself on your site and socials. These platforms do not require you to have anything else, but a good high quality and informative video.

   A third option is YouTube. You need to meet some criteria and be active on the platform to start making money, so if you are already rocking it on YouTube, perhaps this is the place you want your lessons to live.

   Any of these options can bring in more clientele and provide you with more steady passive income.

3. Affiliate links

   Affiliate marketing is selling another businesses products or services to earn a commission on their sales that used your link.

   Link to all the supplies you use, all the tools you own, and materials you love! Make friends with the companies that you know and love and get links directly from them or use affiliate links through amazon.

   You still have to put in the effort to talk about it, but once it is setup in the right places, it should do the work for you to give you steady passive income.

   REMEMBER to only share links to things that make sense for your business, that you like/use, and/or that your audience will like. You want to be creating that win/win/win situation for your audience, the company you are sending your audience to, and yourself. Don’t share items/businesses that you don’t believe in or don’t make sense for your brand!

You can also check out the 5 Revenue Streams for your Wood Burning Business blog post for some opportunities to make your hobby into a thriving business!

Goal Setting and Creating Habits with Radial Symmetry Trackers

There's never a wrong time to set new habits and goals. Life constantly evolves, offering endless opportunities for growth and improvement. Whether it's personal, professional, or health-related, every moment is ripe for change and self-betterment. Embracing this mindset allows us to continuously evolve and adapt, making the most of each day as a fresh start towards achieving our aspirations.

A daily habit tracker gives you small wins to look forward to every day!

If you enjoy making to-do (and ta-da) lists, then you will enjoy tracking your daily habits, and you will find that you accomplish way more in a day. If you are anything like me, you may be thinking, that is great, but I will stop using it in a week/2 weeks/2 months. I have a solution for you! Put this list next to a habit you already have in place. Something you do daily without fail. For me, that is brushing my teeth at night before bed. I will do this no matter how tired I am. Putting my tracker next to my toothbrush has not only given me something to do during the two minutes I am brushing, but it also ensures that I do it DAILY without fail, too! Try this hack, and I think you will find that you stick to your tracker, and therefore your larger goals.

Need some guidance on finding focus and creating the goals you need? Check out: Focus Five - The 5 Things That Describe Your Business

WHY TRACK?

Daily trackers make goals more attainable and less intimidating. Rather than looking at a large goal and how long it will take, a habit tracker allows you to break it down into daily wins.

The beauty of a tracker is that you get to track what YOU want to track. You get to personalize it to your individual goals. Whether that be personal and/or business.

You can use these trackers for personal items like:

• exercise

• water intake

• mood

• stretching

• meditation

• journaling

• gratitude

• creating art

• alcohol intake

• reading

• medications/vitamins

• and so much more

You can also use them for your business goals.

You can track longer term goals and/or small daily actions that add up to your larger picture goals for yourself and your business. Track things like:

• crossing off at least three things from your to do list

• stopped working at 5pm and/or started by 8am

• no personal social media during business hours

• took a walk at break time

• writing a blog

• posting on a social media platform

• pinning on pinterest

• checking in on asana (or your daily to do list)

• spent 5 minutes plugging away at a long term project (i.e. organizing canva documents or your google photos or a course you are creating)

• spent less than 15min on social media (check your IOS device for a breakdown)

• promoting/marketing yourself

• whatever it is YOU want to work on for your business to reach your goals

Being able to see each day filled out with a simple pattern or color gives you a sense of accomplishment and a positive feeling. It gives you motivation to keep filling each day up and complete the month. It keeps you on track for your goals and the best part is that you decide what those goals are.

We’ve created printable, mandala style habit trackers! These can be used in a couple ways. The first way is simply coloring each section in with color(s). The other way is doodling in each section with little creatures, nature pattern or whatever you are into!

Once your habit is done (or at the end of the day, when you are brushing your teeth and getting ready for bed) you can make a quick doodle, like a heart or just some simple lines. If you are feeling fancy, add some detailed patterns. When your month is complete, you will have a pretty mandala that makes you proud!

We have individual trackers with 31 spaces or you can get the whole year where each tracker is numbered and has it’s corresponding spaces!

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Interview With Miranda From Live Free Creative Co.

I am a huge believer in coaching, and what it can do for your business. Having an outsider look at your business, provide accountability, run ideas by, and work out different parts can be incredibly helpful, and the amount of goodness that I have gotten out of following, listening to, and getting coached by Miranda is kind of astounding and so is every word she has to say.

You can find Miranda @livefreemiranda + @livefreecreativeco

Visit her website: livefreecreative.co

Buy her book, More Than Enough

Listen to her Podcast

Take a listen to the interview with Miranda from Live Free Creative Co.:

This interview was created for Burn Club+ in 2020, and was just now released to the public.

Grow with the community and get first access to interviews, exclusive tutorials and lessons by joining Burn Club+, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning.

Comparison Is The Thief of Joy - Theodore Roosevelt

Social Media makes it really easy to fall into the comparison game. It is a dangerous game to play, because there will always be someone who you think is doing better than you, prettier, making more money, etc. Don’t compare your real life to their highlight reel!

Remember, that social media is not real life.

Whenever you are feeling that comparison pull, focus on YOUR goals, and try not to get roped into what everyone else is doing. If you allow yourself to compare to others, you will end up chasing their dreams instead of your own.

In order to take care of your business, and your art, you must first take care of yourself. You won't be able to do anything to the best of your ability if you are not physically or mentally well. Even though we don't always put it first, our well-being is quite important.

Just like the airlines tell you, put your oxygen mask on first. This is because you can't help anyone else, if you don't take care fo yourself first.

If you are anything like me, this is difficult, but it is necessary to work at my best.

• Pay attention to your body

• Pay attention to your mind

• Utilize safety equipment

• Practice good ergonomics

• Stretch and strengthen your body

• Mind your social media consumption

• Eat well

• Drink water

• Take breaks

• Be kind to yourself

YOU are precious.

It is important to take care of YOU.

MENTAL HEALTH suggestions for small businesses:

1. Take social media breaks.

2. Remind yourself that this is YOUR business, and you can take days off if you want to. You are the boss.

3. Do not follow people who make you feel bad no matter the reason. Your mental health is more important than that follow.

4. Follow people who inspire, uplift, and motivate you.

5. Connect with people! Use social media, for social connection. It will change the game for you. Use DM's more than you scroll.

6. Comparison is the thief of joy. Remember to keep your head in your lane. You can look to the right and left of you for inspiration and to cheer on your fellow maker/small business, but really you should be looking in front of you to see where you are going, and behind you to remind yourself of how far you have come.

7. Get involved in the community. Join Burn Club+. Make friends. Talk shop. It really helps.

8. And please, seek professional help if you need it! There is no shame in seeking mental health assistance. I see a therapist weekly, and take daily medication. There is no shame in taking care of you, and you will run a better business if you put yourself first!
   
   Take care of your body and your mind, whatever that means to you. It's worth it. How do you take care of yourself?

Learn more about the physical and mental health of an artist (plus more) from The Complete Wood Burning + Business Toolkit

Interview with Shelly Kim of Letters by Shells

This interview with Shelly Kim of @lettersbyshells is a discovery of how Shelly became a successful artist and the ups and downs of her artistic journey. We talk how Shelly started making money with her artwork and she turned her passion into money!

Follow Shelly @lettersbyshells + @learnletteringtoday

Visit her Website: lettersbyshells.com

Shop Lettering Workbooks

Buy Shelly’s Book: Digital Hand Lettering and Modern Calligraphy

Listen in on how Shelly created a successful community through social media, how important it is to have peers in the same field and so much more on switching your hobby into your full time business.

This interview was created for Burn Club+ in 2020, and was just now released to the public.

Grow with the community and get first access to interviews, exclusive tutorials and lessons by joining Burn Club+, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning.

Interview with Peggy Dean of The Pigeon Letters

This interview with Peggy Dean of @thepigeonletters covers so many different topics. Peggy Dean is a powerhouse, and I am so excited for you to learn from her. If you aren't in her membership service, The Flock, following her on social, own any of her books, or learn from her dozens and dozens of classes on Skillshare, you are missing out! This is a woman who believes in the power of community and information sharing, and she doesn't hold anything back in this interview. I hope you enjoy.

This interview was created for Burn Club+ in 2020, and was just now released to the public.

Grow with the community and get first access to interviews, exclusive tutorials and lessons by joining Burn Club+, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning.

10 Reasons to Hire a Business Coach

A business coach provides valuable expertise and knowledge in various areas of business, holds entrepreneurs accountable for their goals and actions, and provides an objective perspective on business challenges. Additionally, a business coach can offer emotional support and encouragement to help entrepreneurs stay motivated and focused, while also fostering personal development to improve communication, time management, and leadership abilities.

I have personally helped artist entrepreneurs achieve their goals, overcome obstacles, and saw first hand how their businesses grew in a more efficient and effective way.

Check out my services HERE and keep reading to learn 10 different ways I can help you grow yours.

Hiring a business coach can be a valuable investment for entrepreneurs for several reasons:

1. Accountability

There is nothing quite like paying a coach to check in on you to help motivate you towards achieving your goals. Having someone hold you accountable is one of the best things you can do for your business.

When you tell your coach, “My goals are to make two videos this week,” you will be much more likely to actually do them. Accountability is huge for making steps towards your larger picture goals. Your coach should not only help motivate you to accomplish tasks, but ensure you are focusing your efforts on the right tasks that will work towards achieving your goals. Knowing that your coach is going to check in on you and your progress is quite motivational.

2. Invest in Your Business

When you invest in your business by getting a coach, you should be hiring someone who you trust and who will in turn invest in you. When you and your business succeed, it means your mentor is also succeeding. It’s such a fantastic mutualistic relationship.

Having dedicated time to talk about you, your business, your successes, your failures, your worries, your pain points, and your ideas makes ALL the difference.

When you invest real money and time in yourself and your business, the results will show. I invest in coaching monthly, and see first-hand how it has benefitted me, my life, and my business. It is one of the best things I have done for my business, and I know my coaching clients feel the same.

3. Motivation

A coach will not only provide you with accountability, but they should inspire and motivate you to go after your biggest dreams and goals. They are your cheerleader. Your wins are theirs, and it should be clear they want you to succeed. They will help you break down the barriers to your success, and help you relinquish your fears.

Your coach should be able to help you break down your biggest dreams into tangible, attainable, and specific steps. The simple act of talking about goal setting with someone for a dedicated period of time will motivate you in ways you never imagined. Preparing for a coaching call is motivating, too. I always come to my own coaching sessions prepared with a list of questions, pain points, ideas, etc so the time with my coach is well spent. Every time you have contact with your coach it should and will feel motivating, because they are your motivator. They will help keep the fire lit, and the energy focused.

4. Dedicated Time to Talk Business

Coaching time is dedicated time where someone you trust and respect is spending their energy and focus on you, your business, and your success. It almost feels like therapy.

So much mental energy, time, and love goes into owning and operating a small business. Having someone that you pay for dedicated time to discuss your business will help you see it from an outside perspective. Their knowledge will help you find focus, help you grow, solve problems, and learn faster. Coaches are like cheat codes.

5. Focus Efforts

This is one of the best things that a coach can provide. Being able to sit down with a coach, talk about your dream life, and sort out ways to achieve it is so much fun and so valuable.

Without focusing your efforts, you will find yourself being pulled in all the different directions owning a business will pull you, but aimlessly. Having defined, well thought out, specific goals that lead up to your big picture goal will ensure that your time that you are spending on your business is focused time, and time well spent. This is what good coaches can do, and something I specialize in.

A coach provides that outside perspective to help their client not only identify but accomplish their goals.

6. Optimize Business and Life

A good coach won’t just provide you with sound business advice, but they will also help with other aspects of life. You are hopefully coming to them not just for their business skill set. They should have tools to help organize, and optimize your life, too. Because work is affected by life, and vice versa. They are not mutually exclusive.

In order to have a successful business, there are some practices you can put in place to free up time, and mental space to succeed in business. For instance, batch working, time blocking, 3 things, goal setting, to-do lists, ta-da lists, and so much more. A coach should be offering you great advice regardless of the topic and it should all be specific to you.

I personally read an unhealthy number of self-help books and have implemented them in my own life. I have found success with many things I have read in them. I bring that advice into my coaching sessions, because you need life to allow for you to have the mental space, time, and energy to work on business. Coaching is so much more than just business advice.

7. Outside Honest Perspective

If you are looking for an honest perspective from an outside source, a coach is a fantastic choice. They are on your team, are knowledgeable, and willing to share their knowledge, but most importantly want to see you succeed. A good coach should be able to motivate you and also provide honest and constructive feedback to improve your business and get you closer to your goals.

Remember when they are giving you constructive criticism it is because they have your best interest at heart. They want to see you succeed.

8. Earn More

If you want to earn more money sometimes you need to spend it. Your business should grow with a coach, and so should your income. That is the goal, after all. Yes, a business coach should help you feel good about your business, and help you create an authentic business for your specific voice, but the bottom line is they should also be helping your bottom line.

It can be a simple suggestion on scheduling, a tactic for accomplishing tasks, a specific tip about Pinterest, connections to other people/businesses, or one of the other myriad of ways a coach will help you grow financially.

9. Talking One-On-One with an Expert

This is HUGE. They have done it before. They know what to expect. You can learn so much faster the proper ways to do things from someone who has already done it, then trying to figure it out for yourself. This is also why I am a huge fan of information sharing. We are all better when we help each other out. #communityovercompetition.

Getting the opportunity to talk in a focused manner about your specific business and your specific problems can solve so many issues, answer so many unknowns, and help guide you to making good choices for your business. A good coach will do their research into you, and your business. They will listen to your needs, questions, worries, and goals and cater their coaching to you.

I like to have my new coaching clients fill out a survey so I can get to know them better, their goals, and make sure I am the right fit for them before I take them on as a client.

10. Grow Faster

If you want to grow faster, and make fewer mistakes in the process, a coach is for you. A coach will save you time and money. They will help guide your decisions to help you grow towards your dream, and provide feedback along the way. Your success is also theirs.

Coaching is one of the best things I have done for my business to date. I have seen my growth in myself, personally, in my business processes, in my numbers, in my motivation, and in my pride when it comes to my business. I am not just working without a clear goal as to why, I am now working with purpose and intention.

Boost Your Business

If you are ready to take your creative business to the next level, check out my One-On-One Coaching Services.

Aren’t fully convinced you want a coach? Check out the Toolkits designed to guide you through the steps of growing your business while allowing you to work at your own pace, on your own time, at your own speed, and in your own order.

Book Recommendations for Creative Businesses

Most of what I have learned in business has been through trial and error and through reading.

I think a lot of finding success has to do with mindset and habits. I read and listen to a lot of self-help books that I think will benefit me and/or my business. I enjoy the process of optimizing my life.

Here are a few of my personal favorites that have had the biggest impacts on me, my life, and my business. These are Amazon links, and I receive a small portion if you choose to purchase yourself a copy, and I HIGHLY recommend you do! These books are fantastic.

My top 12 Book Recommendations for Creative Businesses:

The 5-Second Rule - Mel Robbins

"The 5-Second Rule" by Mel Robbins offers a simple, actionable tool to combat procrastination and instigate change: counting backward from 5 to 1 to trigger action. The book combines personal anecdotes and scientific backing to show the rule's effectiveness in various life aspects. While some may find it too anecdotal, its core strength lies in its straightforward, motivational approach. It's a quick read that emphasizes immediate action to improve one’s life, making it a practical guide for those seeking to break the cycle of hesitation and fear.

Why I like it: It’s a super simple premise, but a really valuable tool. If you learn well with anecdotes, this book is for you.

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Unfu*k Yourself - Gary John Bishop

"Unfu*k Yourself" by Gary John Bishop is a straightforward self-help book that pushes readers to overcome self-imposed barriers and take charge of their lives. Through seven key assertions, Bishop advocates for personal accountability and action with a direct, no-nonsense tone. The book's strength lies in its clear, motivational message, although it may oversimplify complex personal development concepts. Overall, it's a compelling call to action for those ready to challenge their mindset and make significant changes.

Why I like it: Best listened to, because the author’s voice and tone is fantastic. A great book to cut through the BS. A good listen when you need a kick in the pants.

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Artists Way - Julia Cameron

"The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron is a guide to unlocking creativity through a 12-week program of exercises and self-exploration. Its core practices, morning pages, and artist's dates, aim to overcome creative blocks and nurture artistic expression. While its spiritual approach may not suit everyone, its widespread acclaim and effectiveness in fostering creativity make it a seminal work in personal development and artistic empowerment.

Why I like it: By far the book that has changed my life the most for the better. It is an intense 12 week course, really, and best done with creative friends, or friends who want to be more creative.

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You are a Badass - Jen Sincero

"You Are a Badass" by Jen Sincero is a self-help book that combines humor, personal anecdotes, and practical advice to inspire readers to improve their lives and achieve their goals. Sincero emphasizes self-love, financial acumen, and a positive mindset, urging readers to identify and overcome the limiting beliefs that hold them back. With a conversational and sometimes irreverent tone, the book aims to motivate and empower individuals to take control of their lives and pursue success. It's known for its straightforward, relatable guidance and empowering messages, making it popular among those looking for a boost of confidence and actionable strategies for personal development.

Why I like it: I love this author. She does a great job at giving you valuable information and simultaneously lights a fire. She will make you feel like a BOSS.

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You are a Badass at Making Money - Jen Sincero - Money and money talk is very taboo. Not many people talk about it, or the mindset of getting more of it. This book is a deep dive into money mindsets.

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Daring Greatly - Brené Brown - Anything by Brene Brown is going to be valuable for you as a person and for your business. This book is a must read.

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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen R. Covey - Effective is the operative word here. I recommend a physical copy. You will want to take notes.

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The Gifts of Imperfection - Brené Brown - Another fantastic book by Brene Brown. This woman is a wealth of knowledge. She makes you think and uses real science to back up her claims. Also listen to her podcast, it’s so very good.

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Steal Like an Artist - Austin Kleon - Every creative person should read this book. It is a very quick read, but explains really well how there are no original ideas, and every artist steals from the world around them. 10/10 highly recommend.

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Contagious - Jonah Berger - OOOOOO. If you want to know why things catch on, or “go viral” this book explains the many marketing tools businesses can use to get their work in front of more eyes and have it be memorable. Sparked 2 big ideas for me while reading it.

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4-hour Workweek - Timothy Ferriss - I have more dog ears on this book than any other. If you want to work less, make more, and live your dream life, this guy takes it to the extreme, but offers so many valuable bits of information.

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Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion - Robert B. Cialdini - Another incredible book. This one is more about the psychology of marketing, and how to make it work for you. It’s brilliant.

I know these will have a positive impact on you. If you read any of them and you find it helps, I would love to hear about it.

What books do you recommend?? What do I need to add to my list?

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Want to learn more about wood burning and boost your creative business??

Grow with the community: Join Burn Club, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning (just scroll to the bottom)

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The Pinterest Toolkit for Creatives - A Deep Dive

This is your complete Toolkit in order to effectively utilize the free Pinterest platform.

get ready to take your business to the next level

People come to Pinterest with purpose, so they’re more engaged than on other platforms. Your target audience is here: as of december 2020, there are 459 million people using Pinterest every month (and growing). They’re here for new ideas, and they’re looking for brands like yours.

With the Pinterest Toolkit, you will learn everything you need to know to reach your target audience.

The Toolkit is self-guided. you can work at your own pace, on your own time, at your own speed, and in your own order. there are written lessons with tons of visuals, exercises, videos, as well as spreadsheet to track your progress so you can celebrate your growth!

what’s in the toolkit?

Once you are in, you always have access to the entire toolkit, and it’s updates (no more worrying about algorithm changes!).

Getting started: creating and/or converting your account, clarifying your business, and preparing/optimizing your website

Finding the best keywords: 4 tried and true tools to help you conduct real-time keyword searches, where to use them and why they are so important

Profile set up: creating a strong foundation for your account

Boards: understanding the importance of boards, board content and creating boards that reflect your business

Pins: creating the perfect pin from sizes to where you should be inserting keywords…

Creating content: a run-through of Canva with tips and tricks to help create great content

Custom strategy creation: from batch working to scheduling; learn how to create a strategy that is manageable and will drive results

Analyzing and adjusting: how to read the analytics and which ones to keep an eye on and a free spreadsheet to help you keep track!

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Looking for extra accountability and a professional review of your Pinterest account alongside the toolkit?

consider An audit add-on

Purchase the toolkit and you will receive a professional Pinterest account audit for 50% off the regular price!

(a total value of $475CAD)

If you purchase the toolkit, the audit does not expire. You can request a one hour account review consultation when you are ready.

We will discuss:

• Your implemented pinning and keyword strategy and make adjustments for functionality and efficiency

• Examine your keywords and suggest new ones

• Go over all your boards, organize, remove or suggest new ones and adjust titles and descriptions for optimal search-ability

• Analyze your pins; images, captions and descriptions and suggest ideas to make them more engaging and eye-catching

• You will have access to follow up e-mail support to address any extra questions

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lifetime access let’s you go at your own pace

24/7 access to course content - forever.

Free updates included

Canva run-through for creating stellar content

Website optimization

Custom strategy tactics

Analytics breakdown and downloadable tracker

wait, i’ve got some questions first…

I don’t have a ton of time. How much of a commitment is this toolkit?

I get it, running your own business takes a lot of time. I built this course with YOU, the busy entrepreneur, in mind. You can self-pace yourself through the content and go back and go over any content as many times as you like.

Can I buy the toolkit now and work on it later?

absolutely! this self-paced course is intended to be digested in small manageable sized chunks whenever you are ready to dive in!

Will this toolkit be useful for *insert you niche business here*

no matter what type of online business you run, i promise that if you put in the right efforts in the right spots, which i will guide you through every step of the way, Pinterest can work for you. Pinterest is a visual search engine. people use it to look for all sorts of things and discover new inspiring things along the way. no matter your business, the toolkit will lead you to build your own Pinterest strategy tailored to your product offering and audience.

I don’t have my website ready or actual product yet. Will I still benefit from the toolkit?

to kick off the course, i have created a couple exercises for you to complete in order to gain clarification in your business. because the course is self-guided, you can come back to it once you have everything in place and are ready.

You get to use the Toolkits in whatever way works best for you, your business, how you learn, and when. you hold the reins.

while the Toolkit puts everything at your fingertips, you will still have to put in the work to see the results, you just won't have to do it the long + confusing way.

invest in your business and yourself.

or

Pay two payments of $50: The Complete Pinterest Toolkit for Creatives - Split Payment

($50.00/month x 2):

Focus Five - The 5 Things That Describe Your Business

Find your focus, change the game

You and your business NEED focus in order to be able to help guide your day-to-day decisions and give you clarity. Narrowing down what you want your business to be will help you focus your efforts.

Let's get your message and your focus super clear.

Here are some things to think about when doing this exercise to help narrow in on the focus areas of your business:

• What do you want your business to say?

• What do you want portrayed?

• Why are you doing this business?

• What do you want to get out of it?

• What do you want to give to your following?

• What is important to you?

• Why is it important to you?

• Do you have a message you want to send? Or something you want to bring awareness to?

• Is there something you want to show your support of? Or speak out against?

• Are you trying to make money?

• If you could tell your followers just one thing, what would you tell them? What if you could tell them 5 things?

• Why do you do what you do?

Little Reminders:

• Limit it to about 5 things, so you can give those 5 things the time, attention, and focus they deserve. Fewer is also fine, but aim for 5.

• This is YOUR platform, this is YOUR business. YOU get to choose what it is, and what it isn’t!

• The truer and more honest you are to yourself, the more you will attract the audience of your dreams and have a greater impact on them. The things that make you and your business uniquely you will be the thing that draws in your people. Let your vibe attract your tribe. Be authentic.

• It doesn’t have to be set in stone! Done is better than perfect. You can ALWAYS change your 5 things as your business changes.

• Some of your areas of focus will present themselves to you easily, and some may come after a rearranging of priorities, or after you do the 5 year-to-1 year exercise. Pause and re-evaluate every quarter or at least yearly.

• Tape it up somewhere. It is good to be reminded often where your priorities lie, DAILY! Or better yet, write them daily. You can even make a digital image and turn it into your home screen on your phone, iPad or laptop.

Here is an example of my Focus 5:
Wood Burn Corner

1. Teaching

2. Collaboration with Artists and Companies

3. Building Community & Supporting Other Makers

4. Giving Back

5. Creating and Sharing Beautiful Art

All of the decisions you make, all of the pieces you make, all of the posts you write, all the things you do when it comes to your business should involve one or more of these categories.

This will help give you and your business consistency across the board and will help give you a framework to work around.

Pausing to take the time to figure out what you are about in the big picture will ensure your business is exactly what you want it to be.

Make it clear for you, and clear for your audience.

Exercise: Write your Focus Five. Take your time, but don't fret about it, because you can always adjust it.

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Looking to Boost your business even further?

Get some personal support: One-on-one coaching provides tailored support guaranteed to boost your business.

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Why you need to start an email list today!

If Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook were to disappear tomorrow, would your business survive? With these platforms, they decide what your audience sees, or if they see it at all. Do you have a way of getting ahold of your clients? Of your fans? Or your followers? THIS is one reason why it is important to have an email list. Having a back-up plan is really important.

Connecting with your audience is another really important reason. Your e-mails are a chance to make the person receiving them feel special and individualized. This in turn creates a closer, more personal connection and gives them a sense of trust making them more likely to choose you when they are ready to purchase that custom art piece for their living room. Consider building this list an investment. Over time you will build a faithful following which will show its value as time passes.

Email is King!

What is one of the first things you do in the morning? For me, it is check my phone and my email. I know I am not alone. Email is effective in reaching your people for this reason. They will actually see what you send them (personally delivered to them), and that is half the battle. Your email list will naturally consist of your biggest supporters, and is a great way for you to connect with them on a more personal level.

How do I start an email list?

It is not hard to start an email list, you just have to do it. There are tons of free platforms that will get you started. I used to use Mailchimp before I had the squarespace integration. A lot of website hosts include a feature like this as well (usually at an extra cost). They make it easy to set it up and integrate it with your site making it cohesive with the look and feel of your branding. Once you come up with your first template and design, subsequent emails become much easier.

How do I get people to sign up for my email list?

To get people signed up, I suggest an incentive. You want to provide them with a reason to sign up in the first place. A free gift when they sign up can be a good way to get them in the door. This could easily be a printable or digital download of some sort. Keeping the overhead low is key here.

Also, make sure it’s easy to sign up. Include an area on your website that is clear and simple to fill out. Let people know on instagram and other social media platforms you have an awesome monthly newsletter filled with good stuff. Include those incentives for them to sign up in your Pinterest marketing and all other social media platforms you use.

I have a list, now what do i do? What do I even put in an email?

Think about sending out a monthly newsletter. This acts as a good reminder to your people about your business and what you offer. Give your email list coupons, special discounts, first access, behind-the-scenes information, freebies, and sneak peeks. Get them excited to open that email. Get them excited to learn more about you and the person behind the art and business, on a much more exclusive level. Think about what you would like to see in an email? Remember these are your most loyal customers. These are your best clients. Serve them well, and they will tell their friends.

LOOKING TO BOOST YOUR BUSINESS EVEN FURTHER?

Get some personal support: One-on-one coaching provides tailored support guaranteed to boost your business.

How to Start Your Own Wood Burning Business

Are you a pyrographer who wants to turn your hobby into a thriving business? Have you dreamt of starting your own creative business, but don’t know where to start? I would love to help guide you.

Knowing where to put your energy and effort in business can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headache. I have two options to help you get started in the right direction. Firstly, let me help personally guide you to reach your goals.

My name is Rachel Strauss, and I am a wood burning artist, teacher, entrepreneur, business coach, and community leader. My passion lies in helping people, and you can see that throughout my work. These one-on-one coaching calls allows me to be able to dive deep into each individual person and their goals for their businesses in a more personalized way. I love problem solving, and finding creative solutions to pain points in business, and I love helping people. I have re-discovered my passion for coaching, and know that if I am good at anything, this seems to be it.

I personally believe in coaching. I have seen people that I have worked with find incredible success in their businesses over the past year. I have also seen first hand what coaching has done for my own personal business. I know it works, and a big part of the reason why is because we are in it together. Your success is my success.

If you are still reading this, it means you are serious about this. It means you want to see your business succeed. Let me help you get there. Here is your nudge.

Get another kick start to your business by diving into the Complete Wood Burning + Business Toolkit. This Toolkit is self-guided so you can work at your own pace, on your own time, at your own speed, and in your own order. There are many ways to digest the information including audio lessons (transcripts included), written lessons, exercises, video and picture tutorials, as well as PDF printables.

This isn't just a course. It is a toolkit that you can come back to time and time again, anytime you want and complete at any order and pace you want. The Toolkit will be updated, free of charge, and you will always have access to it. As we learn and grow, so will the Toolkit.

This is your one-stop-shop for everything you need to give your business a massive boost!

Another great option when diving into the world of entrepreneurship is connecting and learning alongside the wood burning community.

By joining Burn Club+ on Patreon (a subscription based service), you will get first and exclusive access to wood burning tips, exclusive interviews, community events, collaboration opportunities, giveaways, live group chats, coupon codes, tons of marketing and business tips, and soooo much more. I also plan on actively seeking out commission jobs and gigs for Burn Club+ Members. Burn Club+ will be the the place for it all. 

My hope is that you come here, learn a whole bunch, connect with your fellow maker, grow your art, grow your business, possibly land some paid jobs, all while helping this small business owner make a living doing what she loves best. Thank you for choosing to be here and support me. My goal with Burn Club+ is to support you back far more than you bargained for. 

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We All Start Somewhere

Everyone has to start somewhere.  A lot of people, when they first pick up a wood burning tool quickly fall in love with it, but are stuck with what to burn next. They may not have the artistic skills to draw their own art yet, but love the creative process of wood burning.

This is where and when utilizing transfer techniques (how to transfer using heat or without heat) comes in handy. Now, when choosing an image to transfer, it is really REALLY REALLY important that you have permission to use said image, and I mean express permission. Copying is never ok.

There are plenty of free resources for images. You can check out: Pixabay, Unsplash, or Pexels - these websites host millions of royalty free images for your artistic use. If you are looking for some simple, line drawn templates, feel free to check out the free poppy pattern, the radial symmetry poppy template or The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates filled with over 50 designs to choose from, and there are many more project ideas and templates in my first book, The Wood Burn Book. You can also bookmark the blog post on 160 Things to Burn Next if you are ever in need of some inspiration or visit my Pinterest boards: Items and Ideas to Burn On or Pyro Projects To Try. Make sure to follow me on Pinterest for more ideas added on the regular.

Where it all began…

My first post to Instagram, and it still only has 9 likes.

When I first started, I did not consider myself an artist. I burned words from free fonts. It wasn’t super artistic, but it did take some skill. Sizing, placement, font choices, steady transfer, and burning hand, etc. I had to learn how to do all those things. Heck, I used to transfer with an exacto knife, because I hadn’t learned any transfer techniques, yet. It was trial and error.

I enjoyed burning for fun, and for friends. It was an inexpensive, rewarding, and fun side gig to my full time job as Mom of three (aged 3 and under at the time). When I joined Instagram in 2016, I found myself wanting to burn beyond just words. I kept wondering what different artists’ work would look like burned rather than painted or drawn. I was still building up my own drawing skills, and confidence.

So, I would message that artist and ask if they would want to see their art burned. Almost every time it would end in a collaboration. I met so many incredible artists and made so many friends by doing this. I also gained skill through practice. I bought art, pyrography, and drawing books and would practice. I would also make wood burned logos for small businesses for free as a giveaway. This was another skill building, following building, and friend/community building exercise.

I started the Burnt Challenges, so that I could push myself and my craft further and also meet and mingle with other pyrographers. I studied, and tried a dozen transfer techniques, and still utilize transfer techniques for almost every single burn I create, because I want to be able to recreate it, I want consistency, and a really good, clean burn.

Eventually, over time, I got to the point where I felt comfortable making my art from scratch almost 100% of the time, although, I still love a good collaboration. My iPad Pro and Procreate app also helped with this. (If you have one, you know, and if you don’t yet, I highly recommend saving up for one. They are game-changers!). When mistakes can easily be re-done, and lines can be smoothed and perfected in the design phase, it made it a whole lot less scary for me to make mistakes.

This is why I teach that if you can trace, you can burn. The method I found that works best for me, and the method I teach means that by the time I pick up my burner, all I am doing is following my lines.

Another thing that made a WORLD of difference in my growth was connecting with so many pyrographers around the globe who, like me, were willing to share tips/tricks/tools/techniques. Embracing community over competition, and having a community that embraces it, too, means everyone grows faster and easier. “A rising tide lifts ALL boats.”

I am still constantly learning, and pushing myself and my craft. Will I ever get to the point with my pyrography where I am making photorealistic pieces? Most likely not, because that is just not my goal. I don’t have the patience nor the desire to make them, but man, I do respect the heck out of those that do! There is no denying the skill of those pyros out there who can create photorealistic pieces.

The lesson to take with you

Here’s the thing that I hope people take in, though; I could easily look at their art and say to myself that what I make isn’t art in comparison. That what I do doesn’t count because it’s not good enough, and some people I am sure believe this. I could choose to have that competitive, comparison, limiting, scarcity mindset OR I can CHOOSE to have the mindset that their art does not take away from mine, nor does mine take away from theirs. Art is meant for people to enjoy, and I think there is more than enough space for every type of artist. Your art, whether it be burned fonts (royalty free, of course) or photorealism, is valid. REPEAT: YOUR ART IS VALID

Community over competition

The reason why choosing community over competition is so easy for me is because I believe whole heartedly that on this great big Earth of ours, there is more than enough space for all of us, and it is a whole lot more fun to be a community, and help each other out, rather than see each other as competition. It wasn’t always easy, and certainly wasn’t friendly when I first started on Instagram in the pyrography space, but any time I would feel that pang of comparison, or competition, I would lean in harder to community, and it quickly became clear how much better it was and felt all around to lift each other up and support one another. When I could be happy for their successes.

My goals with my pyrography is to make art that makes me happy, encourage others to pick up the pyro pen, raise awareness of pyrography and its mental health benefits, help people in any and every way I can, inspire creativity, and bring the community together. 

I want to give people permission to pick up the tool in the first place. I strongly believe that anytime someone takes the time to be creative and create something, they are making art, and I wish more artists would own that title.

We all know that art is therapeutic, this has been proven time and time again. The amount of goodness that wood burning has brought to my personal life and mental health over the years is staggering. I truly believe that allowing yourself to be creative is so important, so whatever stage you are at in your pyrography journey, know that I am right there with you encouraging you every step of the way. 

Much love, my fellow Pyros and happy burning,

Rachel