Phebe Durand
A photo-journalist turned instructor who decided a steady income was not worth creative frustration, Phebe Durand (Lolaness) now focuses on ways that technology can enrich our lives and how living more simply can create more freedom.
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Avoid the Five Most Common Mistakes When Changing a CareerLearn how to change your career successfully by avoiding common pitfalls. Five steps and you're on your way. -
Break into Online Teaching JobsTeaching online is an appealing income source. But don't think it's easy. Learn what's required, go through the pros and cons of online teaching, and get moving to become an online teacher. -
First Person: Dysthymia Is a Hidden DepressionMisdiagnosed repeatedly by general physicians, it was only when I dropped the stigmas and sought psychiatric help that I found a fulfilling life. -
My Mother SummerFor my Mother, who has always inspired me to aspire to be more, to find the sun in myself, and who is my eternal summer. -
Life is Not a Judy Blume NovelThe challenge of "dropping my truth bombs" made me laugh at the absurd thought of becoming a Judy Blume novel. Being true to myself, though, I find the truth that is human reality. -
Preparing for a Snowboarding Vacation to Telluride, ColoradoUnlike Aspen, Vail, and the other well-known Colorado slopes, Telluride is not home to the typical skier that looks down on snowboarders. -
First Person: Watching, Waiting as Colorado Wildfire GrowsIn approximately a 24 hour period, the Weber Canyon Fire has erupted from an 800 acre blaze to a 7,000 acre inferno with more than 110 evacuated homes. -
Durango Colorado Health Aid and AssistanceThe resources presented in this article will help you save money, actually get help, and are all located in the Four Corners region (most are in Durango Colorado) so that you're not spending a ton on transportation, either. -
Free Last Minute Christmas Sewing PatternsWith these resources, you'll be able to quickly sew last minute Christmas gifts and décor … without spending a dime on the pattern. The power of the Internet comes to save us again. -
How to Design Custom Minecraft Skins in PhotoshopThis guide will walk you through the creation of a character skin for your basic Minecraft character without armor on using Adobe Photoshop or a similar graphics program that can work with layers. -
Design an Amy Butler™ Inspired Logo in PhotoshopYou know you've hit it big in the crafting world when just two words spoken evoke images of your work: your first and last name. The Amy Butler™ style logo is extremely easy to create, so even a beginner to Photoshop before can follow this tutorial. -
Morgan MenOf warriors past and present. -
Behind the Wordsa poem of love, longing, and despair -
Make a PC First Aid Kit: Free Security & Backup SoftwareWe all know the signs that something is wrong with our PC. Having a PC First Aid Kit will help. Even better? You can pull together a full security and backup solution for your computer without spending a dime. -
How to Design a Starbucks® Style Logo in PhotoshopBig brands have become big for a variety of reasons. One of the reasons most often quoted by the experts is that these companies have created a look that reflects a style, a culture, something to belong to - and that whole look starts with a logo. -
Top 5 Must-Have iPad Apps for DesignersAs a designer, if you have an iPad and don't get these 5 apps, you're doing yourself a serious disservice. And if you're worried about cost, don't be - there is only 1 app here that will cost you more than $1.99 and one that is less than a buck!
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Web Designer 101: How to Design Useful Error Pages in DreamweaverWe've all hit error pages, and we've all sighed in frustration before hitting the back button and moving on. If your site utilizes useful error pages, though, you can retain your viewership.
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Crochet Freebie: The Complete Internet Guide to the Tunisian Crochet StitchThis is a beloved stitch to have in your crochet stitch repertoire because it does create such clean, knitted looking pieces. Just remember to go light on the weight of your yarn.
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Make Your Own Print Ready Business Marketing Flyer in PhotoshopIn this tutorial, we'll start from a blank canvas in Photoshop and design a flyer that is super catchy, leads the viewer's eye right to the information you want them to see, and is the perfect layout for any business.
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Create a Modern Print-Ready Business Card DesignIf you have some Photoshop skills (it takes knowledge of where tools are located), you can design this modern business card in a relatively short amount of time and come out looking like the coolest business on the block.
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Free Vector Print TemplatesBeyond helpful, this set of vector templates include a ton of vector layouts in the standard dimensions for print projects like flyers, business cards, billboards (to scale), letterhead, CD covers, brochures, and posters.
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Daily Graphic Designer Freebie - Floral Vector PackIt's hard to find floral vectors that display true hand craftsmanship. When you can find these and they're free, you've got a vector that you can't pass up.
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Daily Graphic Designer Freebie - Foliage Brushes8 Photoshop Foliage Brushes. They're minimalistic enough to create the tiniest of details, or bunch them together to create stunningly realistic foliage and landscape scenes.
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Business Identity - Build Your Small Business Brand Via ConsistencyEven the smallest business, with a sole owner and no employees, needs to develop and consistently use all the little elements that make up a brand.
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How to Sell eBooks - 10 Ways to Make Selling Your eBook SuccessfulSelling your eBook means promoting it successfully - which takes some work, but will pay off in huge ways when your book is on the tips of everyone's tongues.
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The Business of Indie - Saving the EconomyIn the last 15 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has reported that small businesses have generated 64% of net new jobs. Sixty-Four percent. That's huge.
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How to Convert PSD to HTML or CSS? Full-fledged Tutorials HelpConverting your PSD layout to HTML or CSS isn't a difficult process - it is, in fact, an easier process than the website design. Here, I've un-earthed (un-webbed?) 5 of the best tutorials to lead you through everything.
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Crochet and Knit Pattern Template: Design a Fresh Minimalist Template to Boost SalesIf you sell crochet or knit patterns, this guide to a professional pattern layout is precisely what you need to get the most out of your online sales. It's easy in Word or a similar program.
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How to Make a Fashionable Butterfly Logo in Adobe IllustratorIn this tutorial, I will walk you through creating a very simple, elegant butterfly logo using Adobe Illustrator. Even if you have never used Illustrator before, you should be able to follow this tutorial.
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Daily Graphic Designer FreebieSeriously, having a font that perfectly complements the 'feel' of the design you're creating is so important it can't be stressed enough.
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Daily Graphic Designer FreebieToday's freebie is a completely different spin on what free twitter graphics can look like.
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Season Trends and the Indie Seller: How the Holidays Will Impact Your Bottom LineA look at how artists, designers, and crafters can stay current with trends and adjust their sales and marketing strategies to excel during the holiday season.
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5 Best Houseplants for the HolidaysOne of the easiest, longest-lasting, and most eco-friendly ways to add just a touch of freshness is by adding a few houseplants into your decorating scheme.
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The Complete Guide to Quilt Pattern SizeThere is a bit of math involved in the answer, but I promise that taking the time to do the math will help you create quilt patterns that fit every single time and look like they were tailor-made.
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Photo Inkjet Printers for PhotographersPhoto inkjet printers are designed for the photographer. They pack a lot of extras that other ink jet printers don't have that will make your photography and graphic designs even more enjoyable.
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Firesheep: Prevent Being a Victim of This New Firefox Plugin that Steals for HackersFiresheep is possibly the first script kiddie hacker exploit ever made so quickly and vastly available as this one has been. Prevent yourself from becoming an identity theft victim.
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IMVU Catalog Page Template TutorialGive yourself a real chance to sell more IMVU products. Design an IMVU catalog page template that can be used for all your products and show off your work.
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Publish Free Patterns for Free PublicityStandard forms of publicity and advertising are all fine and good but creative people are looking for something more.
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Paper Crafting: The Cube Box Template and a New Printing / Folding TechniqueIn this cube box template guide, you get a two-for-one: a great looking cube box and you learn a technique using transparency paper so you never have to print your template again.
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How to Make a Print-Ready Notepad in PhotoshopMany businesses now allow you to print your designs on their products. From gifts to business use, these custom designed products are both fun and useful. Learn to make one perfect for gifting.
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Making the Perfect Facebook AdIf you're not at least advertising to a local market on Facebook, you're missing out. This guide will walk you through the making of the perfect Facebook ad.
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The Logo & Print Catalog for Busy DesignersWhat will you get following the guide? Simple: A strong, clean catalog page template for your print products to be quickly and easily referenced by your customers.
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Petite Stationary Folder - How to Make a Great Gift for Any OccasionIn this complete guide, we'll make a petite stationary folder, complete with monogrammed notes and a folder to hold extras. The completed set is a beautiful handmade gift perfect for any occasion.
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Spring Spice: Freshen the Look of Your Home in 5 Easy StepsYou might be thinking that 5 steps to a spring look will require a lot of time and money. You'd be wrong. With the simple beauty of this year's trends, spring redecorating is easier and cheaper than you could imagine.
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How-To: Print Portfolios for Graphic & Web DesignersThis article is a thorough guide for digital artists on creating a print portfolio. Format and size are up to you, the artist, but I'll lead you through the steps to create a print portfolio that's all you.
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DIY Victorian Wedding Bouquet: The Blushing Blue Bride BouquetIn this article, we're going to design the Blushing Blue Bride Bouquet and I'll lead you from start-to-finish in the creation of a Victorian DIY bouquet you'll treasure for years to come.
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DIY Victorian Wedding: The Blushing Blue Bride Boutonnieres and Bridesmaid BouquetsIn this article, we're going to cover the design of Victorian boutonnieres and bridesmaid bouquets. From start to finish, using the "extras" from the wedding bouquet you've already created, you can whip up a series of these beauties with very little work.
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The Design Contract Template for Busy DesignersNo one likes contracts, but perhaps no one hates contracts more than designers, who would much rather be doing something creative. This article helps you create a re-usable Word template so you never have to think about it again.
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Free WordPress Plugins Every Small Business Blog NeedsIn this article, I'm going to share the most amazing and completely useful tools small businesses need to have on their WordPress business blog, and each of them address keys to success.
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Skin Care 101: Epsom SaltsScience supports the wealth of benefits Epsom salts offer your skin. Learn how - and why - to use them in your own bath and body recipes.
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How to Remodel a Room in PhotoshopI don't have to spend a dime on my remodel because I can "test drive" everything from paint colors to shelving and décor. In this Photoshop tutorial, we're going to take a room and virtually remodel it.
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Top Sewing Craft BlogsFinding the truly useful sewing blogs is like hunting in the dark; rumor is that they exist, but finding one is a project unto itself.
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Top Business to Business Marketing BlogsBusiness - big or small, corporate or indie - requires all the right tools in order to succeed. Business to Business (or b2b) blogs are perfect for dispensing those tools in small, timely doses.
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Graphic Designer Resume BlueprintAs a graphic designer, you're familiar with blueprints and other materials that help you create what the customer wants. In this case, your customer is a potential employer, so the heat's on.
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How-to Tips for Writing a Technical ResumeTechnical resumes are true to their name: detailed, specialized, including an entire section dedicated to your technical skills. For the true techie, that sounds pretty easy. Here's where it gets more difficult: you have to make it for a newbie.
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A Traditional Cinco De Mayo MealPresented here is a series of traditional Cinco de Mayo recipes that will take you from appetizer to dessert, complete with presentation ideas. Every recipe is designed to create a meal that will feed a family of 4-6.
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Is Your Business Really Online? Having a Site Isn't EnoughFor years, businesses have been told that having a single source of information about their company or products and services just plain isn't enough. Most ignored the advice ... until now.
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Sustainable Gardening: What to Plant, and Where to Plant ItWhether gardening is your great passion or a form of decoration you'd rather take care of itself, sustainable gardening is a topic you should be interested in. What you plant - and where you plant it - can save the planet.Also published on:
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Anatomy of an Ad SiteThe anatomy of a successful ad page, or how to create a great ad page, comes down to a pretty simple "formula." This article will lead you right through the formula to creating an ad site that will really sell your product well.
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How to Recognize and Report Work-at-Home ScamsJust run a search for "work-at-home jobs" and you'll find thousands of results. Unfortunately, the results can't show you which jobs are legit and which ones are out there just to get something from you.
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Brand Identity for Graphic DesignersThis article will give you a step-by-step process that you can follow to perform your best work branding a product or a company by doing the right research before your creativity ever begins to flow.
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Fall 2009 Men's Jackets GuideMen's jackets this Fall are really hot with off-center zippers, fold-down collars, and a-symettrical lines ... not to mention a distinctly biker feel that just pushes them into the realm of women's eye candy.
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Fall 2009 Women's Jackets GuideFall 2009 Women's Jacket Trends are all about the fine balance between simplicity and over-the-top attention grabbing highlights. Doesn't seem like a fine line? Seriously, there is one as you're soon to see.
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Fall 2009's Hottest Fashion Bags Under $100Take a peek at the big designers' fashion bag selection and you're going to see tons of eco-friendly, vegan, animal-alternative bags with eye-catching accents. Get the hottest looks for a fraction of the price.
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Using Picasso's Paintbrush Doesn't Make You PicassoNo matter what medium you work in, a good designer is an asset you can't do without. Here's why, and how to work with one painlessly.
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Teen Vehicle GPS: Track Your Teen's Driving, Whereabouts, and SafetyNo, you're not an overly paranoid parent for wanting to keep tabs on your teen's driving. Their safety is at risk. The good news is that GPS tracking devices will give you some peace of mind.
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Small Business Tip: How to Price Your Products & Services for Maximum GrowthGrab a cup of coffee or tea and sit back to think about the simplest way to price your products and services to achieve real growth in your business.
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Three Steps to Reducing Back-to-School Time Wardrobe ClutterWhether your child falls under the "never gonna clean it" category or is much happier working with you to keep their rooms organized, back-to-school time puts a strain on bedroom cleanliness - especially when it comes to clothes.
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Have a Computer? Have a Phone? Work at HomeThe opportunities listed here are real opportunities. They are not for someone who wants an "easy" job. They're for professionals who really love working with people one-on-one.
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August Trends for Indie Businesses to Keep an Eye OnWhether your indie business is focused on handmade clothing, artistic lines of jewelry, or paper goods, here are some specific trends to prepare for to make the most of your August sales.
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Dell 2130cn Color Laser Printer - Serious Quality, Serious PrinterI decided that I simply had to take the plunge into the world of laser printers. A scary thought. When I found the Dell 2130cn Color Laser Printer, I was sure I'd found what I wanted. It was the best investment I've made for my business yet.
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Buying a Website: What's Involved, What it Costs and How to Get the BestIf you have a business, you absolutely need a website. No questions asked, it's a standard now that many customers will look for as a mark of professionalism.
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Active Photography: Choosing the Best Digital Camera for Action ShotsWhether you're an avid fan of cycling and want to capture the spring excitement, or a parent of children who are - invariably - at their most active outside, you want a digital camera that can handle action shots.
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5 Tips for Using Technology to Simplify Your LifeTechnology really can free up time and keep you organized.
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CSS and SEO: The Importance of CSS in Search Engine RankingsThe short of it is this: on the Internet, content is King. When search engines don't have to search for your content, they're more likely to boost your ranking up. At the same time, the separation saves a lot of web development time.
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8 Myths About Data HygieneSuccessful direct marketing campaigns use clean data records with contact information that is deliverable and targeted to the right prospects.
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A Fresh Face: Start the New Year Right for Your Small Business MarketingMarketing is an aspect of every business with overwhelming importance. The problem is that many small businesses overlook it as being too expensive or time-consuming.
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Home Remedies for Canker Sore Relief and PreventionYou don't have to buy expensive medicines to relieve the pain - and help heal - your canker sores. These home remedies for canker sore relief will prevent canker sores, and improve your overall health.
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Pain Relieving Herbal Teas for Canker SoresEach of the herbs mentioned can be made into a tea at home with the procedure given, or purchased in ready-to-use teabags from most health food stores.
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Coffee Cozy Sewing PatternTry crafting this gorgeous little coffee cozy. Not only are they pretty enough to make the other customers envious, but they're reusable.
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Make it a Green Christmas: Sell Your Old Electronics for Reuse and RecyclingGazelle.com is a fantastic site that both prevents the unnecessary tossing of electronics into landfills and gives its users a bit of green - bills, that is - in return.
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Where to Find Christmas Craft Patterns, Ideas and ProjectsAre you looking for the more traditional feel of Christmas, or just need some Christmas craft projects for the winter break? Keep reading - these sites are the best of the best this holiday season.
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How to Create a Writer's Workspace Without Remodeling Your HomeWhat most writers need is just a space they can call their own. A spot specifically chosen for the art, craft, and task of writing. We can all have that space, if we think about what we really need and how to fit those needs into our current living space.
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Daddy's Princess: A Homemade Christmas Gift ProjectGifts from the heart are always special, and they're always treasured. This quick and easy Christmas gift project is definitely from the heart, and will win the heart of any Dad when it comes from his little girl.
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How to Treat Severe Diaper RashWhen you see diaper rash for the first time, it is pretty obvious what you're dealing with. Diaper rash usually occurs at least once during a child's first 3 years of life, but most often happens before they're a year old.
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2 Easy Vanilla Christmas Cookies RecipesThe Christmas season is rapidly approaching and my daughter will be dying to cut cookies for family and friends (not to mention Santa!). Here are two versions of the same recipe that result in delicious but completely different cookies.
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Non-Religious Christmas Card MessagesThe right Christmas card can be a present all itself. What makes it "right"? Here's a hint: it has little or nothing to do with the actual card, but everything to do with what's inside. Christmas Card Messages really make the difference.
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Blank Christmas Cards You'll LoveIt's starting to feel a lot like Christmas, and finding the perfect Christmas cards top many people's list right about now. Finding great blank Christmas cards doesn't have to add to the seasonal shopping nightmare, either.
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DIY Fashion ... Without All the WorkDesign your own handbags, dresses, skirts, shirts, and lingerie - and never have to get your hands dirty with the labor-intensive construction? 3 companies aim to do just that - and let you have fun doing it.
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Common Oils Used in Massage TherapyEver wonder what, exactly, is in the silky concoction that revives your senses and relaxes your body? Common oils used in massage therapy are no mystery.
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Building or Remodeling Your Home? Go Green for FreeLaunched just a couple short weeks ago, FreeGreen is an all-new website with a simple goal: to make green design principles available to the masses.
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Educational Software: A Game and a Teaching Tool All in OneA game and a teaching tool all in one, educational software can teach computer skills and school subjects all under the guise of play.
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Choosing a Windows ServerDeciding what your needs are - or why you need a windows server at all - is the first step in choosing a windows server that will give you the most for your money.
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Finding the Perfect Online Games for Your KidsThe world of online gaming is exciting. With the Internet at your fingertips, there should definitely be online games for kids perfect for your children, right? Yes, there is. The trick is to find it.
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All-In-One Printers: A Good Solution for a Small BusinessEvery small business should at least seriously consider an all-in-one printer. Why? Simple - let me show you the reasons, and help you look for the features in an all-in-one printer that will serve your business best.
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Father's Day Crafts for KidsFrom keepsakes to tin picture albums, there's a craft that kids can easily do for Father's Day that will make everyone happy. Here are all the ideas and resources you need to help your kids craft a great impact for their Dads this Father's Day.
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Green Living Online: Three Communities Dedicated to the Green CauseWhether you get into the online "green" communities to learn new ways of reducing your carbon footprint, or to toss ideas around with like-minded people, the Internet has a home for you.
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Netflix as a Model: How Innovative Business Owners Are Cashing in on Netflix-Style SuccessIn recent years, there has been a very real business trend: the Netflix model. Start-ups that tweak the Netflix model, the rent-not-buy concept, in innovative ways are reaping huge rewards - and they're doing it with very little overhead.
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DIY Ballet Newborn Soft-Sole Baby ShoesThese baby shoes are totally girly, little ballet slippers made for newborns. They'll last through the first 3-6 months, depending on the size of the baby's foot and how fast they grow. Using scrap amounts of fabric and ribbons, these shoes are completely irresistible.
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Craft for Profit: Professional Use of ColorWant to make the most of your crafting so that you can earn the most return on your efforts? Be professional with colors, and you'll see a dramatic impact on your craft business.
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Make Print-Ready Business Cards in PhotoshopEvery business should have great looking business cards. Yours can, too - easily and without spending a lot of money.
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Flower-Lined Drawstring Bag: A Crochet PatternThis pattern serves two purposes. It is a quick and easy pattern for a great-looking drawstring bag (not like any other drawstring bag you're thinking of!), and it teaches how to line a crocheted bag or purse.
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Felt Needle Book with Crochet CoverWhatever your reasons - gifting, selling, or personal use - this needle book is so easy to make and it looks great all finished up.
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Writing Portfolio: How to Build a Professional Freelance PortfolioHow do you take a collection of writing credits and turn it into something that makes sense to anyone else? It's not an easy question, but it's one that every portfolio attempts to answer.
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Wool Scarflette Crochet PatternScarflettes are great because they do the job of a scarf, without the bulk of one. Crocheted in luxurious, 100% wool in whatever gorgeous color you like, it features a scalloped edging and two pretty buttons. Overall, the look is natural and oh-so-pretty.
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Mooching Just Got Easier: Swap, Borrow, Trade ... And Be Eco-FriendlyWhy buy something when you don't have to? With all the stuff you own, these websites help you get stuff you want for nothing more than the cost of a drive to the neighbors or the purchase of a postage stamp, and let you dump the trash someone else will call a treasure.
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Product Photography for BeginnersKnowing how to take killer product photos is essential for anyone who sells online; from eBay to Etsy to home-run websites, photos sell a product. Professional looking product photography can be done by anyone.
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Ten Commandments for WritersIf you never follow any other advice as a writer, follow the ones here; as much a guide to being professional as an author as it is a series of guidelines to follow in your writing life.
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Want More Page Views? Blog for an AudienceA Content Producer (in totally great, high-energy wording), basically asked how I've managed to accumulate almost 4700 views per article. He was right, and it freaked me out a little bit. This guide is all about one powerful way of improving your own page views.
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Tax Deductions for Writers: Get Your Money's WorthSome writers realize that writing is a business and come into tax time prepared ... and then there are the rest of us, who wait to the last minute before hyperventilating in panic. Writers can still save on taxes this year. Here's how.
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Wordpress Themes You (Probably!) Haven't Seen BeforeWhether you're looking for a fresh look or just starting out with Wordpress, you have thousands of design options available. In this guide, we're going to look at some of the best - free - Wordpress themes currently available. And they're changing the way we view blogging.
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Ten Ways to Recycle Your Old JeansMost of us tend to forget that "recycling" goes beyond the whole paper vs. plastic discussion. In fact, the more that we can find ways to re-use (or re-purpose) our worn-out things, the less stress we're putting on the environment from the get go.
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DIY Crafting Challenges the Big-Box StoresWhether you're creating or purchasing, DIY is more than a movement or a political statement. It has benefits that go unnoticed, ignored, or swept aside; it's time that we take a look at what our hands can really do for us.
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Cozy Coasters in Felt & CrochetA full set of coasters that look lovely and cozy for that perfect homemade touch - and they're super easy, complete from start to finish in just minutes.
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Make Printable Artwork in PhotoshopCreating art is a great creative release, and it's even better when you don't have to make a mess doing it. This quick tutorial leads you through the steps to create a stunning sunset piece ready for printing and framing - all in Photoshop.
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How to Make a Bud Vase with Sculpey Polymer ClayIn this guide, I'll show how to make a simple bud vase from Sculpey Clay. The same process can be used to sculpt from any clay, but the baking instructions are specific to Sculpey. And don't worry - you don't need any skill or experience to come up with something fabulous.
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How to Make Forms in Adobe AcrobatAdding an interactive form to your PDF document is extremely easy once you learn the process, and adds a whole new dimension of user friendliness to your files. The number of uses are endless, and having this skill in your arsenal can be invaluable.
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Guide to Easy Button-Front Pocket Pillow CoversButton-front pillow covers can be used on pillows of any size, and when you make them yourself you tailor them to fit the pillow they'll cover. And they're really quick, but leave room for creativity.
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Angel Felt Gift Tag - Quick CraftIn concept, it is this: a felt tag to be used on Christmas presents. When the gift is opened, the tag makes a tree ornament. The back has a pocket that's exactly the right size for a gift card or just a candy cane. Quick, easy, and very cute. Here's how to make your own.
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The No-Sew, No-Measure Way to Pad Ladder Back Chairs1) I'm cheap, 2) The chair is going to last another who-knows-how-many years, and 3) I'm cheap. Your reasons might be totally different. Fixing the padding on your ladder back chair is so quick and easy, it might even become a hobby. Really.
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Wristlet Crochet Pattern for BeginnersThis easy wristlet crochet pattern evolved out of my need to have something to teach beginning crochet that actually resulted in something that the learner wanted to use. Quick, easy, and pretty.
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How to Draw a Kokeshi Doll in PhotoshopThe combination of no limbs with a lot of simple decoration make these really - really - fun dolls to use as inspiration for clipart or graphics made in Photoshop. They're easy and offer limitless possibilities.
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Irish Rose Convertible Mittens Crochet PatternConvertible mittens? Yup - they're fingerless gloves with a flip-over finger cover that buttons down when it's not needed.
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Irish Rose Slip Snug Scarf Crochet PatternNot just cuddly-soft and pretty, but very useful with its slip-through design that will help keep this scarf in place instead of trailing along behind.
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Irish Rose Ear Warmers Crochet PatternCozy, warm, and cuddly soft. These ear warmers are created quickly in crochet and look oh-so-pretty that they'll be a welcome gift to any girl.
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Irish Rose Motif Crochet PatternEasy and elegant Irish rose motif in crochet; the first pattern in the Winter Rose Crochet Pattern set.
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What to Charge for Your Etsy ProductsThe only thing that stops people from jumping in and selling on a site like Etsy is that they're confused by the fees and what they should charge. More than over-charging, under-charging for your handmade crafts or art will turn a potential buyer away.
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Using Adobe Photoshop Picture Package for Great Digital PhotosWith the holiday season just around the corner, most of us are looking for ways that we can use our photographic genius in holiday gifts and cards. What will you need? Not much. A copy of Photoshop is essential and at least one photograph that you want to use.
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Gift Certificates in Microsoft Word: Quick & Easy TutorialCreating gift certificates in Microsoft Word is quick and easy. Once you create the "template", you can quickly print off hundreds of gift certificates with no extra work. This guide will show you how.
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Guide to Branding: Create an Identity for Your BusinessCreating a good brand is much more than getting a good logo and slapping it on all of your communications. What should you have, and how do you get them? That's what we're going to work out in this guide.
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Sell Handmade? Know the Label LawsIf you sell clothing, toys, linens, or anything else that is crafted from fabric or yarn (in all its forms, including hemp), you're responsible for knowing the label laws that govern what you sell.
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Crochet Pattern: Fingerless Gloves with TiesThese fingerless gloves are super soft, made with a delicate-looking leaf stitch and accented by shells. The wrist closes with a series of ties that give it a little more "edge" than they'd otherwise have.
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Free Online Certification for Computer TechniciansYou might be the most l33t computer technician the world has ever seen, but if you can't prove it with a little piece of paper, you're going to be overlooked in favor of those who can. This article discusses and reviews two of the best resources currently on the Internet.
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Realistic Ribbons in PhotoshopThis guide walks you through the process of creating a realistic card of ribbons. You might never need this image, but you'll learn several cool tricks and effects if you work through it. Promise. And what you wind up with will make you proud enough to want to try more.
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On the Cover of Rolling Stone: Magazine Cover in PhotoshopBe on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine? Sure. Cool. But I don't want to take the time to try and get famous enough to do it ... so I'm going to cheat. With a copy of Photoshop or GIMP, you can cheat too.
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Behind the Print-On-Demand StigmaLet's admit that there are good reasons why some stigmas exist. They are formulated from the consistent experiences and observations of a large group of people. We're not talking some sort of urban legend here ... there are reasons that a stigma surrounds POD publishers.
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What is Duplicate Content? A Quick Guide for Online WritersSo how do we avoid having our articles pop up as a copy of another version? First, we have to understand how most software defines duplicated content ... and then we can prevent our writing falling into that category.
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Creepy Plot Hooks: Instant Sub-Plots for WritersCreepy plot hooks give your characters an added distraction, further complicating their goal. They are designed to create suspense, confusion, and generally disturb your characters to no end ... until they resolve the sub-plot, of course.
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6 Ways to Sell More Online ProductsIf people don't know about your product, they can't realize the genius you represent. In other words, it's all up to you. You create excitement and interest in your work, and you use that excitement to get the word out.
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Album Art in Photoshop: Step Two - Create Album Mix ArtIn this guide, we'll use the basic art created in the previous tutorial and add to it some key elements that will grace our CD label and CD case covers with some serious style - you'll want to hit my page to find the guide on creating the basic art.
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Album Art in Photoshop: Step One - Design the Basic ArtRecently, HP and Gwen Stefani teamed up to offer fans some pretty cool printables. The styles of artwork range from just plain cute to downright pretty - but being me, I wasn't going to be happy until I'd played around with coming up with that same style all on my own.
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Self-Publishers: How to Lay Out a Professional "How-To" PageWhether you'll be publishing your final work only in electronic (usually .pdf) format, or using a print-on-demand publisher, this method for creating a page layout will help your end product keep the reader's interest and make you a proud self publisher.
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Make Glass Zodiac Symbol Icons in PhotoshopDoes the clean, classic look of glassy or glossy buttons ever fade? It hasn't so far. They remain some of the most popular buttons and icons available online. Why? Because they work so well with nearly any look, and remain professional.
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Believable Romance Characters: Begin with the Back StoryIf we can't believe in the heroine, the fact that she's falling in love with someone will mean nothing to us. Make us root for her every step of the way, help us see where her hang-ups are and then we can struggle with her. How can you do all this? With the back story.
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Sound Guy Music Logo in PhotoshopIn this easy Photoshop tutorial, we'll create a logo of a guy wearing headphones. With a few personal touches, this logo can be made to suit any music-related business.
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Gaming Forum Signature in PhotoshopIf you're a gamer, you know how much ungodly amounts of time is spent in developing a single character. It's only right that you'd want to show your character off in your favorite gaming forum, and it's only fair that your gaming signature should look unique.
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Foot Reflexology: Self-Healing Technique Overview and BenefitsFoot Reflexology - a therapeutic form of foot massage - is an alternative healing technique that has been used for centuries. Early man, walking barefoot over the open countryside, was enjoying the benefits of reflexology without even realizing it.
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Lacy Bridal Garter Crochet PatternThis is an extremely easy crochet pattern, even though it uses crochet thread. As long as you've got the basic stitches down (slip stitch, chain, single crochet, and double crochet) you're set.
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Computer Crafting: Tag Bag GiftsTag bag gifts are a year-round favorite. Even the person with absolutely no crafting abilities can create them to include in gift baskets, as stocking stuffers, or any number of other things.
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Been Plagiarized? How to Spot and Fight Content ThievesIt's never an easy topic, but it definitely pays off to take the time to find out if your writing is being stolen - and to fight back against the theft. Usually, content thieves know they've committed plagiarism and just think they won't get caught.
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Scarlet Night Crochet Clutch PatternThe finished clutch measures 6 1/2" tall by 8" wide, is completed in about an hour, and contains nothing but single crochet stitches which make it a great beginner project as well.
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Classroom Wishlist - Ways to Help Back-to-School KidsWhether you're a parent or not, we all need to help our schools succeed. We depend on the future, and the future is in the hands of the children growing up right under our noses. Offered here are 5 charities that are in serious need of help from people like you and I.
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How to Draw Clipart in Photoshop ... Without the Pen ToolWhen you've got umpteen things on your plate and you've got to come up with a new graphic for something or other you welcome shortcuts that result in a fantastic graphic. If it takes a quarter of the time but looks just as good, who can complain? Certainly not me.
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Beware New Email Scam: The Sgt. Smith David Fitte ScamI really believed I'd become immune to irritation when I receive email scams. Today, however, I received a money scam in my email that just really bugged me. It's in such poor taste, and as the best cons do, it tugs at the heart strings before moving in for the 1-2 punch.
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A Guide to Paying Online Writing GigsA guide to the places that will pay you to write online.
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Self-Publishing Crochet Patterns with ClickBookJust because a publisher doesn't think they have room for your pattern doesn't mean that it isn't quality. And if it's quality, and you're determined to earn something for your hard work, it's time to consider self-publishing.
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Buying and Legally Driving a Scooter or Moped in ColoradoAbout 100 miles per gallon, less than $1,000 brand-new, very little in the way of registration and licenses, and extremely durable and easy to maintain. Save the environment, some cash, and have some fun. What could be better?
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Crochet Lavender Bunny Cap for Babies & ChildrenPart homage to an amazing amigurumi bunny pattern, and part gift-giving need, this crochet pattern uses only beginner stitches and completes very quickly.
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Draw a Country Primitive Clipart House in PhotoshopThere's just something irresistible about country clipart or primitive clipart. They have such a home-ish feel to them, soft and comfortable and all earth tones.
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Pansy Scrapbook Page Set in PhotoshopScrapbooking papers and layouts cost some serious bucks. And why spend those hard-earned dollars on scrapbooking paper when you can design it yourself easily in Photoshop to print?
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Draw Pansy Clipart in PhotoshopPansies brighten up the most blah of environments ... including digital graphics - and they're fun and easy to make using Photoshop.
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Craft for Profit: Protecting Your Design's CopyrightsA few notes on copyright, the legal issues involved with "borrowing" someone's original designs, and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of design theft.
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Internet Errors: What Do the 404 Errors Mean?Tired of guessing what that error code means - or trying to decide whether it's worth trying the page again later? Here's a quick breakdown of what Internet Error Codes are telling you.
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Craft for Profit: The Power of Promo ItemsRegardless of the type of business you're in, the major hurdle you have to leap is the memory one. You have to find a way of keeping your name in the mind of customers and potential customers, without actually being in their face.
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Craft for Profit: Choosing Products that Will Earn MoneyChoosing craft products that will earn money doesn't take a lot of work, but it does take time and thought as well as experimentation. You'll need to consider a few key points that determine whether you will make money, or just spend it.
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Self-Publisher Typography Basics: Designing Readability into TextEven if you do know the difference between a Serif and a Sans Serif font, can you quickly state off the top of your head what style, size, and weight it should be for a caption? Most of us don't have a clue.
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Printable Color Wheels in PhotoshopThis guide will lead you through the creation of true, printable color wheels using Photoshop.
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Polar Bear Buddy Blanket - Easy Crochet Baby BlanketThis crochet pattern works up quickly to create a 30" square blanket with 6" polar bear teddy "buddy" attached. Mix and match your yarn colors to change the polar bear into a regular teddy bear, or lengthen the ears to make a bunny.
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How to Make an Artistic Nature Logo in PhotoshopIn this guide, I'll help you create an artistic nature logo. It is three-color, and can be applied to a variety of uses.
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How to Make an Autorun CD or DVD Portfolio or Press KitThis quick guide will show you what should be contained on your disc, and how to take your portfolio from basic HTML to a professional CD or DVD that will run automatically when placed in a computer.
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Stellar First Chapters: How to Write a Winning First ChapterWithout a doubt, most writers spend a good portion of their writing time trying to perfect their first chapter. Getting those opening lines just right.
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How to Be a Great Writer - Draw from Pure EmotionThe most affecting literature contains truth. It doesn't have to be a Nobel Prize-winning book to be emotionally gripping, and it doesn't have to be a smack in the face of society to contain truth.
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AllOfMP3 Shut-Down Doesn't Slow Downloaded MusicBig-name music labels should be dancing for joy to the beat of AllOfMP3's shutdown. But they're not.
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Baby Crochet Sleeping Bag PatternThis baby sleeping bag is done up in super-soft crochet, with large buttons running up the side. Make one in just a few hours, and you might be inspired to make a few more for charity crochet giving.
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How to Draw a Globe in PhotoshopThis guide will help you create a globe in Photoshop that can be used as an icon, webbie, or part of a logo. You will need a copy of Photoshop, version 7 or later, or a program like GIMP that allows layers.
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Fun with Magnet Sheets: 3 Fun Printer CraftsHere are 3 fun printer crafts that you can make using nothing but your computer and a few magnetic sheets.
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Easy Girl's Journal - How to Print & Bind a Handmade JournalEssentially, this quick printable craft is Version 2.0 of my diary project. It's easy - you can print up the pages and let your girls do the work themselves. But the final look is very cool - and all girl.
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Buying Your First New Car ... On a BudgetMaybe - just maybe - it's time for me to stop being cheap and actually look at (gulp!) buying an honest-to-goodness new car with the warranty and all the shiny stuff that comes with it. My first time. Terrifying.
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How to Consign Crafts: Sell Your Handmade Designs Without MarketingThis guide will help you understand how consignment works, what to expect, and who to look to as you begin.
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Eco-Friendly Nursery: How to Go GreenBeing the great parent that you are, you're going to want to learn how to make an eco-friendly nursery that benefits your child's health, development, and won't harm the world they're going to grow up in.
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The Indie Design Movement: Why It's Important, and How to Get InvolvedWhat is the indie design movement? Fair question. Basically, it's this: independent designers; artists, crafters, musicians, and designers who make a delectable smorgasbord of unbelievable products ... from scratch.
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How to Make a Baby Book: Print & Make a Sweet GiftThis is a really fun and super-easy project that actually comes out looking like something you'd happily pay for. A quick computer craft requires just a few minutes, a pair of scissors, some glue, and a ribbon.
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How to Make Stitch Markers: Easy Method with No WireIf you want a neat stitch marker (or twenty - this is an addictive, quick craft), and don't want to mess around with wire, this guide is what you're looking for.
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Online Vs. Print: Understand How Online Writing Needs to Be Different to SucceedYou have to understand that online writing is different than writing for print. Until you really get an idea of that simple fact, you'll be frustrated with the amount of money you earn online.
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The Art Journal: How to Start Visual JournalingVisual journals, or art journals, are an amazing mixture of words and images that can convey raw emotion much more effectively than a naked page.
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How to Sign & Certify PDF DocumentsIn this guide, you'll learn how to sign and certify your PDF documents. Signing and certifying adds additional security to your files - not just for your copyright protection, but for the end user as well.
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The Quest for a Literary Agent: How to Find an Agent for Your WritingThere are still a few publishing companies out there who will happily receive queries from authors without an agent. For the most part, though, it's a much better idea to try for having agent representation.
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How to Plot a Novel Visually: The Index Card SystemThis article is for the person who wants to see every piece of the puzzle and be able to arrange and rearrange that puzzle without starting from square one. It's a way of plotting your novel that uses nothing more than index cards and a box to keep them in line.
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An Interview with Geoff Reiss, Associated Content's New CEOGenuinely excited about what AC is all about, Geoff recently shared some of his passions, plans for the future of AC, and advice for its CP's.
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Trendy Website Design in Photoshop Part 3: Editing HTML in DreamweaverThis tutorial is the third of three parts outlining a method for creating great website designs tailored to your needs. You won't need to have much knowledge of Dreamweaver at all - just the ability to find the tools and options discussed in this article.
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Trendy Website Design in Photoshop Part 2: Slicing in ImageReadyThis tutorial is the second of three parts outlining a method for creating great website designs tailored to your needs. You won't need to have much knowledge of ImageReady at all - just the ability to find the tools and options discussed in this article.
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Trendy Website Design in Photoshop Part 1: Design in PhotoshopGlossy buttons, well-placed gradients, and vivid images that tie into an overall color scheme are what you're looking for. Here's one method to help you create a great design specific to your site's subject using Photoshop.
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Free Downloads for the Playstation Portable ... Or, How Many Viruses Do You Want?There are actually websites out there that don't shallowly wallow in the whole illegal files, viruses, and frustrating broken links scheme. Finding those websites is some real work, though. So, a round-up of the ways to get real downloads? You got it.
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How to Make & Edit Bookmarks in Adobe AcrobatBookmarks make your PDF file easier to navigate - boosting the interactive and usefulness factors. In short, the bookmark instantly adds value for your reader, and you'll be happy to know they're very easy to set up.
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Quick Guide to Choosing Great Children's DecorChoosing bedroom and play furniture for your kids is easier than ever, with markets opening up that are devoted to providing the very best and stuff that children love.
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Iced Mint - Thread Crochet BookmarkThis bookmark will work up extremely quickly (under an hour) and don't let the size of the steps fool you - this is an extremely easy crochet pattern, using mostly single-crochet stitches to create the pattern.
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Clear Day - Thread Crochet BookmarkThis bookmark is made in size 10 crochet thread, and will work up very quickly to create a pretty piece that you'll be proud to use or gift.
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His, Hers and Theirs - Crochet Fingerless Gloves for the FamilyYou can complete a full set of these gloves using your scrap yarn - they take less than 2 ounces per glove - and they won't take more than an hour to create. Can we hear "gifting" in the future?
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Bowtie Crochet 8" Square - Perfect for Charity CrochetTons of charities are looking for your crochet squares - and you can make them with small amounts of your scrap yarn. Here's a pretty pattern to get you started.
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Your Google AdWords Driven WebsiteIf you're not afraid of some hard work initially, this article can help you cushion your pocket with a little bit of extra income.