From the day we open our first lemonade stand, most of us understand that price is a relative matter, one that can infuriate, surprise, sadden, or delight. As Harvard Business School professor Gerald Zaltman told me, "Price is typically a number, but there is nothing more subjective." Who knew that the way prices are positioned on a menu can influence what we eat for lunch or that some numbers trigger in our minds the flashing light of good deal, while others send signals of rip-off? Looking deep inside the human brain, neuroscientists have discovered that the very anticipation of a "bargain" sets our neural networks aquiver. The manipulation of price can confuse us, block the thinking part of our brain and ignite the impulsive, primitive side, the part that leads us to make poor decisions based on bad assumptions. Ever wonder why you'll drive five miles out of your way to save a buck on a six- pack of beer or, for that matter, a tank of gas? Or why you'll snap up a sweater "marked down" from $150 to $50 but pass up the very same sweater selling for "full price" at $50? Or why you'd prefer to pay more for an item than witness someone else pay less? Ever wonder why your own closet is cluttered with ill-fitting shoes and T-shirts in unbecoming shades? As we will see, science has the answer.
Factory outlets are America's number-one tourist destination, the fastest-growing segment of not only the retail industry but also the travel industry. In Las Vegas we see the point that outlets can be as dicey as the slots, treacherous places for those who don't know the landscape. At the outlets a "designer" necklace, a pair of Levi Strauss jeans, a Coach bag are often mere decoys, name brands in name only. Who's to know? And it's not only outlets that lead us astray. Merchants of rugs, mattresses, jewelry, and almost everything else use similar strategies to make bad deals irresistible. Even Harvard University dilutes its brand to capitalize on the human penchant for bargains. When the price is right, what's in the box seems to matter far less than what is on the label.
In the world of Cheap, "design" has become a stand-in for quality. Companies such as Target, H & M, and Zara offer consumers the look they love at a price they can live with — but at what true cost? I n Sweden we visit IKEA, the global furniture retailer made famous and fabulously successful by a scheme of designing not just for low price but to low price. The consequences of this are both obvious and subtle. IKEA makes furniture available to all at a low price, which means college students, young couples, and others on a budget can furnish their homes in style. But IKEA does not overly concern itself with what Homer Simpson calls "fall-apart." The company designs for easy construction, uniformity, cheap production, and transportability around the globe. Ultimately, what it markets is disposable, with everything that implies. The genius of IKEA and other cheap-chic purveyors is that they have made fashionable, desirable, and even lovable objects nearly devoid of craftsmanship. The environmental and social implications of this are insidious and alarming.
Taking a hard look at the impact of discounting on the family budget raises the inevitable question: Does shopping at Wal-Mart and its like make us wealthier? Discounters have helped to keep inflation at bay, and that in itself is a victory. But the Great Depression was characterized not by inflation but by deflation, particularly wage deflation. In recent decades, wage stagnation and growing debt made discounting all the more compelling. Yet discounts don't compensate for the staggering and rising costs of essentials — housing, education, and health care. A terrific deal on tube socks does not keep foreclosure and bankruptcy at bay. Nor will it sustain us.
Food reflects our culture, traditions, and values; nothing is more personal or more intimate. But what we put in our mouths often comes down to price. Americans pay less for food than do citizens of any other developed nation. The puzzle of how restaurants can possibly turn a profit selling one-dollar cheeseburgers and "all you can eat" shrimp platters led me to the question of how food is grown, processed, and sold in America and around the world. While small family farms are no longer adequate to supply the burgeoning global population, overreliance on factory-farmed and factory-processed foods has made food scarce in many parts of the developing world while forcing down the price of food in the United States to unsustainable levels. As agricultural economist Peter Timmer told me, "I'm quite concerned about what the large food companies are doing to the quality and safety of our diet."
Without China, there would be no Cheap. Still, predictable generalizations about this vast and fascinating nation do not apply. In Shanghai and Taizhou the role American business interests have played in keeping prices low and conditions difficult is crystal-clear. The Chinese call those who make, sell, and profit from substandard and counterfeit goods the heixin, or "small, black- hearted ones," and as we will see, the heixin come in many nationalities. What I hope to convey is that we have more in common with the people of China than many of us would like to believe. As one trade expert told me: "The severe exploitation of China's factory workers and the contraction of the American middle class are two sides of the same coin."
From Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture by Ellen Ruppel Shell. Reprinted by arrangement of Penguin Press, a member of Penguin Group (USA), Inc. Copyright (c) 2009 by Ellen Ruppel Shell.
Click here to listen to an NPR interview with Ellen Ruppel Shell: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106431468
Buy the book here: http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=ellen+shell&tag=googhydr-20&index=stripbooks&hvadid=7562331689&ref=pd_sl_5hrhip3xs3_b
My Week in Review
The school year is winding down, the seniors are finished, I have both classrooms cleaned, and just completed my grades on Friday. What a wonderful feeling to be able to check that off of my list. As the school year winds down, I begin to focus on the work in my studio. Since I don't always have a lot of time to create during the year, my goal is to really stock up my inventory over the summer, and to work on marketing is my work, and getting my work out into some new boutiques.
I still have four days of school next week, but had a taste of summer with this wonderful three day weekend. My husband and I really didn't do much this weekend, which was exactly what I wanted. I spent most of my Saturday and Sunday afternoon working the studio on a new line of jewelry, and had so much fun. The ideas just kept coming as I was creating. That's normally how it seems to work for me. As I'm working I come up with more and more ideas. My goal was to make enough necklace to fill my new necklace display for Foundry Day this coming Saturday. I think that I just need to make a few more pieces and the goal will be accomplished. Next goal is that after Foundry Day the rack will be empty. Be sure to check out the new necklace designs in my etsy shop, http://etsy.com/shop/amberkane , they are really fun pieces to wear, unique in their design, and best of all affordable.
My husband discovered that once again our roof is leaking, well it's not actually our roof, our home is connected to our neighbors, and it's their roof that leaks, but because of the way that thinks are sloppled the water comes into our house. We did have the leak stopped for awhile, but have had tons of rain lately, and found that the ceiling is feeling damp once again. So my husband going to try to fix the roof once again when he returns from his long morning bike ride.
I still have four days of school next week, but had a taste of summer with this wonderful three day weekend. My husband and I really didn't do much this weekend, which was exactly what I wanted. I spent most of my Saturday and Sunday afternoon working the studio on a new line of jewelry, and had so much fun. The ideas just kept coming as I was creating. That's normally how it seems to work for me. As I'm working I come up with more and more ideas. My goal was to make enough necklace to fill my new necklace display for Foundry Day this coming Saturday. I think that I just need to make a few more pieces and the goal will be accomplished. Next goal is that after Foundry Day the rack will be empty. Be sure to check out the new necklace designs in my etsy shop, http://etsy.com/shop/amberkane , they are really fun pieces to wear, unique in their design, and best of all affordable.
My husband discovered that once again our roof is leaking, well it's not actually our roof, our home is connected to our neighbors, and it's their roof that leaks, but because of the way that thinks are sloppled the water comes into our house. We did have the leak stopped for awhile, but have had tons of rain lately, and found that the ceiling is feeling damp once again. So my husband going to try to fix the roof once again when he returns from his long morning bike ride.
Sneak Peak
I"m spending most of my three day weekend prepping for Foundry Day on Saturday June 4th in Boiling Springs, and First Friday at the Pa Guild Store in Lancaster.
I finally made stickers to add to my bags. To make them I purchased large mailing labels at Office Max, created my own little design and printed them out. It was a pretty inexpensive way to add labels to my bags. I"m working on a whole new jewelry line this weekend and having so much fun.
I finally made stickers to add to my bags. To make them I purchased large mailing labels at Office Max, created my own little design and printed them out. It was a pretty inexpensive way to add labels to my bags. I"m working on a whole new jewelry line this weekend and having so much fun.
Etsy Find: Benny Peacock
Check out these wonderful creations, you can find them here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/BennyPeacock?ref=seller_info
I run a little shop called Benny Peacock Accessories, which is named after two of my very favorite things, my Brother Benny and Peacock Feathers. We grew up collection peacock feathers on my Great Grandpa Bob's farm, and that memory holds a very special place in my heart, which is why I named one of my labors of love after this memory.
I started my shop last December after being asked by many people if I sell the hair things that I would hair constantly or if I could make them one and so it began and has been going great ever since. I sell for newborns to brides and everyone in between. Most of my customers are photographers, brides, mom's and young woman.
I adore making custom pieces as well.
I run a little shop called Benny Peacock Accessories, which is named after two of my very favorite things, my Brother Benny and Peacock Feathers. We grew up collection peacock feathers on my Great Grandpa Bob's farm, and that memory holds a very special place in my heart, which is why I named one of my labors of love after this memory.
I started my shop last December after being asked by many people if I sell the hair things that I would hair constantly or if I could make them one and so it began and has been going great ever since. I sell for newborns to brides and everyone in between. Most of my customers are photographers, brides, mom's and young woman.
I adore making custom pieces as well.
Inspiring: Tinctory
I think that I just might be in love with everyone of these pieces. Check out her shop http://tinctory.bigcartel.com/products.
This necklace is like a wayward little watch. You can never be sure exactly how many hour markers are hiding between the pleats. It has only one hand and it serves as a toggle closing the chain. Despite or maybe because of this it is a fine instrument designed not to keep track of time but to make time slow down, inviting you to look closely and consider the moment.
It is made from silk dyed and overdyed slowly and gradually with several plants, pleated and smocked. The colour is a blend of brown and dark red with hints of yellow here and there. The moving hour markers and toggle are embellished with glass beads and all metal used is antiqued sterling silver.
The pendant is 4.5 cm (1 3/4 inches) in diameter and hangs on a 46 cm (18 inch) long chain.
As with all textiles, storing the necklace out of direct sunlight is recommended to keep it at its best.
This necklace is like a wayward little watch. You can never be sure exactly how many hour markers are hiding between the pleats. It has only one hand and it serves as a toggle closing the chain. Despite or maybe because of this it is a fine instrument designed not to keep track of time but to make time slow down, inviting you to look closely and consider the moment.
It is made from silk dyed and overdyed slowly and gradually with several plants, pleated and smocked. The colour is a blend of brown and dark red with hints of yellow here and there. The moving hour markers and toggle are embellished with glass beads and all metal used is antiqued sterling silver.
The pendant is 4.5 cm (1 3/4 inches) in diameter and hangs on a 46 cm (18 inch) long chain.
As with all textiles, storing the necklace out of direct sunlight is recommended to keep it at its best.
My Work:
I've been really busy creating pieces to go to Pennsylvania Guild Store in Lancaster, and in preparation for my next craft show, which is just around the corner. You can find me in Boiling Springs, Pa at Foundry Day on Saturday June 4th from 9-4.
Remember to print out our coupon for Foundry Day, and save 10% off of one item.
Remember to print out our coupon for Foundry Day, and save 10% off of one item.
My Week
This last week was a little bit crazy, and I must say that I'm glad that it came to an end. I had the privledge of photographing a wedding with the wonderful Cindy Roth http://www.cindyrothphotography.com/ this weekend. The bride and groom, where so laid back, and such a pleasure to work with . I then traveled to Lancaster and dropped off some of my new work to the PA Guild Store http://www.pacrafts.org/shop-now/ . I"ll be at the store for First Friday, June 4th. I'd love for you to stop by and visit. I then finished up my Saturday at birthday party with family and friends. It was a really run, but tiring day, and today I"m finding myself with very little energy.
I also received all kinds of fun packages in the mail this week. I got the metal that I ordered for my scarves and necklaces, and also received the new EZ Up tent that I purchased for my upcoming show, Foundry Day, in Boiling Springs, Pa. http://www.boilingsprings.org/foundry-day/
I also received all kinds of fun packages in the mail this week. I got the metal that I ordered for my scarves and necklaces, and also received the new EZ Up tent that I purchased for my upcoming show, Foundry Day, in Boiling Springs, Pa. http://www.boilingsprings.org/foundry-day/
Etsy Finds: Nostalgic Summer
Here's a link to the etsy shop where you can find these lovely treasures along with many others: http://tinyurl.com/nostalgicsum
Meet Renee: Some information about the lovely designer: As the owner and creator of Nostalgic Summer Repurposed Jewelry, my passion is uncovering memories, honoring the past, and creating artifacts with new meaning for the future.
The small things in life have always caught my eye. Everyday we run into tiny keys, shinny trinkets, jewels, and items of all kinds. The more stories a piece has to tell, worn by time, the more precious it becomes.
My vision is to take these artifacts, long forgotten, and craft new memories and experiences; giving new life to memories we hold close.
I recently introduced a custom designed bridal line, "Something Old, Something New". Beautiful one of a kind pieces custom made for bride and bridal parties.
Meet Renee: Some information about the lovely designer: As the owner and creator of Nostalgic Summer Repurposed Jewelry, my passion is uncovering memories, honoring the past, and creating artifacts with new meaning for the future.
The small things in life have always caught my eye. Everyday we run into tiny keys, shinny trinkets, jewels, and items of all kinds. The more stories a piece has to tell, worn by time, the more precious it becomes.
My vision is to take these artifacts, long forgotten, and craft new memories and experiences; giving new life to memories we hold close.
I recently introduced a custom designed bridal line, "Something Old, Something New". Beautiful one of a kind pieces custom made for bride and bridal parties.
Inspiring: Emanuele Magini Zip Up Sofa
I saw this sofa on http://dwellgawker.com/ and thought that it was so cool.
go here to read more about Emanuele Magini the designer: http://shoeboxdwelling.com/2011/05/12/zip-up-sofa/
go here to read more about Emanuele Magini the designer: http://shoeboxdwelling.com/2011/05/12/zip-up-sofa/
My Work: PA Guild Store
Well I don't have any new work to share with you at the moment. I have a lot of work in progress, but am waiting for my metal pieces to come in , in order to finish them.
However, starting in two weeks you can find my work in the PA Guild store located in Lancaster, Pa.
Location
252 N. Prince St
Lancaster, PA
Store Hours
Tues - Sat: 10 am to 4 pm
special ArtWalk hours
Sat, May 7: 10 am to 5 pm
Sun, May 8: 12 noon to 4 pm
First Friday receptions:
open until 9:00 pm
You can also visit their website for more information: http://www.pacrafts.org/shop-now/
Here are a few of my pieces that will be there
However, starting in two weeks you can find my work in the PA Guild store located in Lancaster, Pa.
Location
252 N. Prince St
Lancaster, PA
Store Hours
Tues - Sat: 10 am to 4 pm
special ArtWalk hours
Sat, May 7: 10 am to 5 pm
Sun, May 8: 12 noon to 4 pm
First Friday receptions:
open until 9:00 pm
You can also visit their website for more information: http://www.pacrafts.org/shop-now/
Here are a few of my pieces that will be there
My Work
I took some time this weekend, and took photos of myself wearing my scarves. I also think that it looks better to actually see the pieces on someone, but it's hard to take photos of myself. I need a model, any volunteers?
Summer Art Classes at Sunflower Art Studio
Get your creative juices flowing this summer. I'll be teaching the following classes.
Intro to Crochet
This class is for any adults 18 years and older. In this class you will learn basic crocheting techniques, and create your own scarf or cowl by the end of the class. You do not need to have any experience to take this class. Come with your crocheting questions, and Amber will help guide you through the process. Crocheting is a wonderful relaxing activity and once you know the basics, the possibilities are endless. A supply list will be sent to you upon registration.
Tuesdays and Thursday evenings
6/7 6/9 6/14 6/21
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$50.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Wire Wrapped Cabochon Workshop
This workshop is for any adults 18 years or older. You will learn basic wire wrapping techniques and leave the class with a complete wire wrapped pendant. A supply list will be made available.
Wednesday Evening, June 15th.
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$15.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Bead Crochet Necklace Workshop
This workshop is for any adults 18 years and older. You will learn how to create an elegant necklace through the use of crocheting thin wire and beads. Once you learn the technique the possibilities are endless! Crocheters and non-crocheter are welcome. a supply list will be available.
Thursday Evening, July 7th
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$20.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Coil Bracelet Workshop
This workshop is for adults 18 years and older. Come and learn some basic wire twisting techniques and make a unique bracelet. A supply list will be available.
Thursday Evening, August 11th.
7:00 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$20.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Intro to Crochet
This class is for any adults 18 years and older. In this class you will learn basic crocheting techniques, and create your own scarf or cowl by the end of the class. You do not need to have any experience to take this class. Come with your crocheting questions, and Amber will help guide you through the process. Crocheting is a wonderful relaxing activity and once you know the basics, the possibilities are endless. A supply list will be sent to you upon registration.
Tuesdays and Thursday evenings
6/7 6/9 6/14 6/21
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$50.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Wire Wrapped Cabochon Workshop
This workshop is for any adults 18 years or older. You will learn basic wire wrapping techniques and leave the class with a complete wire wrapped pendant. A supply list will be made available.
Wednesday Evening, June 15th.
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$15.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Bead Crochet Necklace Workshop
This workshop is for any adults 18 years and older. You will learn how to create an elegant necklace through the use of crocheting thin wire and beads. Once you learn the technique the possibilities are endless! Crocheters and non-crocheter are welcome. a supply list will be available.
Thursday Evening, July 7th
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$20.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Coil Bracelet Workshop
This workshop is for adults 18 years and older. Come and learn some basic wire twisting techniques and make a unique bracelet. A supply list will be available.
Thursday Evening, August 11th.
7:00 - 8:00 PM
Instructor: Amber Kane
$20.00
Sign up here: http://web.me.com/sunflowerartstudio/Site/Registration.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)