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I've been published in Rubber Stamper, Rubberstampmadness and Take Ten. I've learned to submit alot of items - but gear your cards to the syle of the magazine. They each have a different style. Take Ten has design challenges for each issue - they give you the template and you submit a card with that template. I've had success with this. Rubber Stamper does not really like cards with alot of decorative paper, since they would rather see "stamped" cards, rather than "scrapped" cards. Make sure your cards are well put together, neat, cut well, etc. Hope this little bit helps.
I've been published in Rubber Stamper, Rubberstampmadness and Take Ten. I've learned to submit alot of items - but gear your cards to the syle of the magazine. They each have a different style. Take Ten has design challenges for each issue - they give you the template and you submit a card with that template. I've had success with this. Rubber Stamper does not really like cards with alot of decorative paper, since they would rather see "stamped" cards, rather than "scrapped" cards. Make sure your cards are well put together, neat, cut well, etc. Hope this little bit helps.
I have to apologize for the previous post by "Flourishes" - it was not a post by Jan Marie, but by me!! I am on Jan's computer (we're having a stamp meeting tonight) and forgot she was logged into SCS under her name!! I have logged in now under my name....sorry for the confusion!!
I was published once and it was in the CARDS magazine...there actually was no stamping involved with this card, but I did want to say that I think a very good photo to submit really helps. I know some magazines you have to actually send a photo of your card or project. Some you can submit via email, much simpler IMO. HTH, a little!
I've been published in regular Stamper's Sampler, the Take Ten Stamper Samplers, and The RubberStamper Magazine.
One thing I can suggest for SS is to submit several cards with the same color scheme (don't need to be the same stamps...or even the same general theme). They tend to group by color so if you have several of similar colors it seems more likely to get published. Also, if you submit and it doesn't come out in the issue you expect, don't give up. I've had mine published sometimes over a year later! I've also had one card published where I never even knew it was in there till someone called me (they didn't notify me) so now I always go and peek through the issues at Barnes and Noble! In general with SS you'll get a postcard in the mail that you can return in the mail to get a copy of the magazine...or you can save and use them towards $$ off on a subscription. The Take Tens have been different...those have actually come in the mail.
With RubberStamper...look at what types of cards they are requesting. Also RS will allow you to send .jpgs and then will let you know if they are interested so you can send the original. This is really nice because you know up front if you can submit it elsewhere if they aren't going to use it. I can't remember if they sent me the actual magazine or a card...but I think it was the magazine. Also, if you get one of slots where they write about HOW to make the card, etc...you can get paid for it. Mine just made the gallery...so no money for me. :-) Also, if you're running up against the deadline...EMAIL them the pics...if they like it they'll wait till after the deadline for the original to arrive.
Good luck...it's really not as hard as you'd think. I think my cards are pretty good...but not artist quality...and I've had lots published. If I can do it, you can too!
I know another SCS Member here who has been published MANY MANY times--KardKrazy. She is super talented!! She wrote out detailed info about being published--EXCELLENT! Let me know if you want details.
One of my designs was just accepted for CARDS! Yipee!!!!! Because I am new to the publishing game....no real advice to give other than....don't take rejection personally. I had a wonderful pep talk from Lauren (mytime) and she encouraged me to keep trying. Thanks Lauren!
So, I've been wanting to ask this question...what's the perk of being published? Just wondering... I know some stamp companies and DT's give perks for that but other than that, is it just for fame?
I had a card published in Rubber Stamper this year (first time I submitted, got really, really lucky). I do think you have to keep the style of the magazine in mind, watch for their submission calls so you know what they're looking for in a specific issue, and keep at it. I think it's not nearly as important to be talented (obviously, they picked one of my cards) as it is to fit their needs.
I have been told that when submitting, take extra care to keep your card neat (no frayed edges, bends, stray ink spots, etc.), make sure it's actually all secured - no cards falling apart in the editors' hands, and to keep on trying. I have submitted three times more, and haven't been accepted. The whole "don't take it personally" is a good bit of advice.
What are the perks? I get to show everyone I know this magazine with my name in it! What more do I need? :o)
Some great advice here! Just wanted to chime in, even though I haven't had any cards published. Sometimes getting your work published is the first step towards other opportunities. I had a fictional short story published years ago that led to a series of paid freelance writing and editing jobs based on the quality of my initial work. Although I submitted the original story just for the fame as I always wanted to be a writer when I grew up, being able to sell my work was even better!
Definitely make sure when you're submitting anything to pay attention to the small details and follow any submission guidelines put forth by the publisher. Tons of submissions will be discarded without a second glance because they didn't follow the rules. Once your submission survives the first round, it's just a matter of standing out from the rest and making sure your card (or whatever the submission is) fills the need of the publisher.
So, I've been wanting to ask this question...what's the perk of being published? Just wondering... I know some stamp companies and DT's give perks for that but other than that, is it just for fame?
I was published in the Take Ten Spring 2007 issue and received a free copy in the mail. Considering the cost of the Take Ten issues I thought it was a good perk. I actually sent 2 cards to them and I thought the other card, that wasn't choosen, was actually much better than the one they picked.
I am thinking of trying to get some of my cards published in stamping/card magazines. How hard it this goal? Anyone have tips?
Yep! My best advice is just keep trying. Different magazines look for different things but I can tell you that most want a card that the majority of the audience can reproduce. Look for a magazine that matches your style the best and submit, submit, submit!
Good luck!!!
I've been published in Rubber Stamper, Rubberstampmadness and Take Ten. I've learned to submit alot of items - but gear your cards to the syle of the magazine. They each have a different style. Take Ten has design challenges for each issue - they give you the template and you submit a card with that template. I've had success with this. Rubber Stamper does not really like cards with alot of decorative paper, since they would rather see "stamped" cards, rather than "scrapped" cards. Make sure your cards are well put together, neat, cut well, etc. Hope this little bit helps.
This advice is right on the money....
I have excellent luck with Scott Publications...they produce Scrap and Stamp alond with Just Cards.
I know another SCS Member here who has been published MANY MANY times--KardKrazy. She is super talented!! She wrote out detailed info about being published--EXCELLENT! Let me know if you want details.
Don't give up hope yet. I've had some friends who sent in cards and they were published a year later! In fact I submitted one with a graduation theme for 2006. It didn't make it then but the magazine published it this year!
Not me. I've submitted a bunch in the last 4-5 months and no takers.
I can't believe you haven't been published! Honestly, sometimes I have no idea why they pick what they pick for some magazines. I've seen some AMAZING "rejects" on blogs and in galleries that didn't make the cut for a magazine, and some magazines where I look at them and think "why is this in a mag?". I prefer SCS...TONS of inspiration pouring in each and every day, and no fee required!!
Don't give up hope yet. I've had some friends who sent in cards and they were published a year later! In fact I submitted one with a graduation theme for 2006. It didn't make it then but the magazine published it this year!
So - don't give up!
rita
Rita,
Did they let you know when you were actually puclished? Or did you just happen to see your card in an issue and say to yourself "Oh look, my card...". Just curious.
I have heard of people submitting cards for SU's monthly competition, not winning but then appearing on SU's website Stamper's Showcase at a random time later in the year.
I,ve been published in lots of issues of stampers Sampler, take ten and their extras publication. Their always a list at the back of the magazine of upcoming themes their looking for, try to send in several cards for those categories. It really helps. I also come up with my own themes and send in several pieces in the same color palette. Some of the perks are free publications, If you already subscribe they send you a card for $5.00 off and you can save them up towards you subscription. Also several stamp companies will give you free sheets of stamps if their published in major magazines $25.00 worth of free stamps is always nice. Just make sure you list their stamp credits and then notify them as to the issue and date it appeared. Dont be discouraged if your work isnt picked right away. They do hold some things for along time. They used to send a card letting you know you were being published but now they send an email to you Just keep trying and it will happen. Good Luck and have Fun Stamping !!
Lynn
CMC - I found out I was published when I received a complimentary copy of the magazine in the mail. I got it about the same time the magazines arrived in stores.
Here is another VERY TALENTED SCS Member that has been multi-published. Her name is PARKERQUILTER.Check out her AMAZING creations!!! You'll be "WOWed"!
CMC - I found out I was published when I received a complimentary copy of the magazine in the mail. I got it about the same time the magazines arrived in stores.
rita
That's good - that way in case you want to buy extra copiesfor friends for family (or downlines, etc.) you still can!
Pure and simple, I enjoy being published because I think it is the biggest thrill to see my work in print. I started submitting to Stampington publications about two years ago and have seen quite a few of mine make it. I've also had several in CardMaker. Obviously, my tips are given from having been published in those magazines, but here's a few things to consider:
1. If you're feeling this is something you want to try, just do it!!! Don't second guess if you're good enough, you more than likely are. (Some of my first cards published were not of the caliber I would submit now, but they still made it and made me want to do better work).
2. Decide which publications fit your style. Are you more of a scrappy artist or stamper? I'm a stamper and so go more towards the Stampington publications than say Paper Crafts or Cards, that type of thing. But access the style of the magazine and see if this is the kind of work you do best. Submit to those publications that most closely align with your style.
3. Check out their website to find out their editorial calendar, calls and challenges and all guidelines to follow. Follow them carefully. I always make sure all my information and instructions are carefully typed and easily understood with credits given where needed. If I'm mailing the card in, I make sure this is attached securely to the card.
I think clear, concise info and instructions definitely give you a better chance. I suggest studying the magazine you are going to submit to and see how others write out their instructions so you can sort of follow the same outline.
4. Do you use all newer product in your creations or do you like to use everything you have in your craft room? Some pubs showcase mostly new product while others are less concerned with that, you can use that odd embellishment from ten years ago without having to find out who made it. Other pubs want every scrap of paper and piece of ribbon credited. Take Ten and Stampers Sampler require stamp credits only.
5. Do you like writing out detailed instructions or would you rather just do basic ones? Which brings up the obvious question, is it important to you be paid for your work? This will usually require more work on your part in the form of detailed, step-by-step instructions and supply lists. Or would you just be happy with a free magazine?
6. Are you concerned about keeping your original artwork? Take Ten will donte unpublished work to charity, so you would want to make a duplicate of your work as you won't get the original back. Stampers Sampler will allow you to mark your card "please return" and return it if you send in postage as well. Other pubs such as CardMaker will automatically send your original back when they are done with it.
8. I've noticed as far as the Stampington publications go I have more luck when I stay away from the "hey, look at this color combination I just discovered" pieces and stick to the more common color combinations.
7. As others have said, be patient. I just had a card published in the new Take Ten a year after I sent it in.
I just put up a slide show on my blog with my published work. You can also see my work by checking under "published" labels.
LoiseG, I just found your blog the other day, and I LOVE it! Thanks for all the great tips/ideas...I've submitted before, but have never been published. Of course, if I would get off my bootie I could be published on SCS ;)
Pure and simple, I enjoy being published because I think it is the biggest thrill to see my work in print. I started submitting to Stampington publications about two years ago and have seen quite a few of mine make it. I've also had several in CardMaker. Obviously, my tips are given from having been published in those magazines, but here's a few things to consider:
1. If you're feeling this is something you want to try, just do it!!! Don't second guess if you're good enough, you more than likely are. (Some of my first cards published were not of the caliber I would submit now, but they still made it and made me want to do better work).
2. Decide which publications fit your style. Are you more of a scrappy artist or stamper? I'm a stamper and so go more towards the Stampington publications than say Paper Crafts or Cards, that type of thing. But access the style of the magazine and see if this is the kind of work you do best. Submit to those publications that most closely align with your style.
3. Check out their website to find out their editorial calendar, calls and challenges and all guidelines to follow. Follow them carefully. I always make sure all my information and instructions are carefully typed and easily understood with credits given where needed. If I'm mailing the card in, I make sure this is attached securely to the card.
I think clear, concise info and instructions definitely give you a better chance. I suggest studying the magazine you are going to submit to and see how others write out their instructions so you can sort of follow the same outline.
4. Do you use all newer product in your creations or do you like to use everything you have in your craft room? Some pubs showcase mostly new product while others are less concerned with that, you can use that odd embellishment from ten years ago without having to find out who made it. Other pubs want every scrap of paper and piece of ribbon credited. Take Ten and Stampers Sampler require stamp credits only.
5. Do you like writing out detailed instructions or would you rather just do basic ones? Which brings up the obvious question, is it important to you be paid for your work? This will usually require more work on your part in the form of detailed, step-by-step instructions and supply lists. Or would you just be happy with a free magazine?
6. Are you concerned about keeping your original artwork? Take Ten will donte unpublished work to charity, so you would want to make a duplicate of your work as you won't get the original back. Stampers Sampler will allow you to mark your card "please return" and return it if you send in postage as well. Other pubs such as CardMaker will automatically send your original back when they are done with it.
8. I've noticed as far as the Stampington publications go I have more luck when I stay away from the "hey, look at this color combination I just discovered" pieces and stick to the more common color combinations.
7. As others have said, be patient. I just had a card published in the new Take Ten a year after I sent it in.
I just put up a slide show on my blog with my published work. You can also see my work by checking under "published" labels.
These are WONDERFUL questions to ask yourself/help with publishing!
I've been published by quite a few of these magazines over the past few years and have experienced the ins and outs of publishing.
Another question to ask yourself (and this may have been brought up in another post): Why do you want to get published? Money? Free Goodies? Just to see yourself in print? A little bit of all three?
I admit, I started out with a little bit of all three and then just let it grow into trying to make a few $. Plenty of magazines pay and they pay nice money. Then you have the magazines who provide free issues and/or goodie boxes...BUT, there are ways to make even more money.
Designer Endorsement Fees.
What are designer endorsement fees? Designer endorsements fees are payments made by manufacturers to the published artist that uses the manufacturers products. This is where detailed material lists come in. Every detail can lead to more money. There are many rubber stamp manufacturers, adhesive manufacturers, paper manufacturers, paint, etc that pay endorsement fees. Who are your favorite manufacturers? Contact them and see if they do Designer Endorsements. Find out the specifics needed for payment.
One more thing before you all tell me to be quiet...
If you can't find submission guidelines or editorial calendars - EMAIL THE EDITOR. You will find the editors name and most likely their email address in the front of every magazine. They'll respond. They are usually very happy to respond!
Mynee was published in the latest Take 10! How cool is that? I think she has only sent in a few cards so far. Sorry no advice here, I haven't ever sent in anything. I've had poems published tho, does that count? ;D
__________________ Julia Gluten free on 9/15/2008. I am a Celiac. 1 in 133 Americans is a Celiac and 97% of those who have Celiac Disease are still undiagnosed. Are you one?
These are WONDERFUL questions to ask yourself/help with publishing!
I've been published by quite a few of these magazines over the past few years and have experienced the ins and outs of publishing.
Another question to ask yourself (and this may have been brought up in another post): Why do you want to get published? Money? Free Goodies? Just to see yourself in print? A little bit of all three?
I admit, I started out with a little bit of all three and then just let it grow into trying to make a few $. Plenty of magazines pay and they pay nice money. Then you have the magazines who provide free issues and/or goodie boxes...BUT, there are ways to make even more money.
Designer Endorsement Fees.
What are designer endorsement fees? Designer endorsements fees are payments made by manufacturers to the published artist that uses the manufacturers products. This is where detailed material lists come in. Every detail can lead to more money. There are many rubber stamp manufacturers, adhesive manufacturers, paper manufacturers, paint, etc that pay endorsement fees. Who are your favorite manufacturers? Contact them and see if they do Designer Endorsements. Find out the specifics needed for payment.
One more thing before you all tell me to be quiet...
If you can't find submission guidelines or editorial calendars - EMAIL THE EDITOR. You will find the editors name and most likely their email address in the front of every magazine. They'll respond. They are usually very happy to respond!
Take Care!
~Karen
Great Information Karen.
I had never heard of Designer endorsement fees before. You mean I could have actually been making $ all this Time???
I will be sure and contact the product manufacturers Before I submit anything else. It would be Great to get Paid to Play !!
Don't know if this is the same thing you are talking about, Karen, but I often will contact stamp companies when something of mine has been published and uses their stamp(s) prominently and is properly credited. I will ask if they offer free stamps for publication.
Took me a little while to be bold enough to do this and it brought varied responses -- from totally ignoring my inquiry to responding that absolutely, they offer free stamps and pick out a stamp I would like from their catalog and they will send it to me.
I've learned it's worth a try.
Anyone been published?
Getting published
