Sunday, April 21, 2013

Why are Suncatcher Craft Eyes called premium? See for yourself!

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Have you ever wondered why Suncatcher Craft Eyes are called “premium” craft eyes?  There is a reason.  There are a few different manufacturers and different price points of craft eyes, and the quality is very different.  Some of these eyes are made with softer plastic, some have large chunks of plastic still attached, some have pupils that aren’t centered or are uneven, some have flaws in the eyes, and some have washers that are nearly impossible to attach. 

It took me a while to figure out who manufactured the best eyes and what manufacturers to avoid.  Unfortunately the only way to find this out was to buy from all of them and compare over the years.  I’ve lost money doing this (and have a lot of duds sitting around my house).  It was worth it because now I know quality craft eyes when I see them, and that makes me more confident in my business knowing that I only offer the best.  

Unfortunately it wouldn’t be good business for me to tell you who or what to avoid when buying craft eyes, but I can offer to let you see for yourself. If you are using craft eyes that you aren’t happy with, I have an offer for you. 

To get a free pair of Suncatcher Craft Eyes mailed to you, send in the following to orders@suncatchereyes.com:
  1. A photo of the craft eyes you bought somewhere else (with the washer backs in the photo as well).
  2. Your name and address.
  3. The size of Suncatcher Craft Eyes you want.
  4. A few color choices (not all colors may be available).
Once I have your information,  I will send you 1 pair of Suncatcher Craft Eyes so that you can see the difference for yourself.  This is first come, first served so hurry while supplies last.  North American customers only at this time (sorry my international friends!).

What size craft eyes?

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It can be difficult choosing the right size craft eyes, especially when ordering online.  Click on the image above to go to my craft eyes size chart to see how eye sizes compare to one another and for a comparison between millimeters, inches, and fractions of an inch.

Customer service – The backbone of a small business

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This week a few things happened that really made me think about the importance of good customer service.  I always try to provide the best customer service I can in my business, and customers really appreciate it.  It can be as simple as writing “thank you” on the packing slip or invoice, shipping orders earlier than expected, making sure to package your items nicely for shipping, and making a hassle-free exchange or refund policy.  I’m usually on the business side of customer service, but this week I was on the receiving end of excellent customer service.  Now I understand why some of my customers are surprised by the customer care I provide.

The first surprise I got was from my internet company.  I’ve had problems with my internet connection since I switched plans in October … same company, just different plan of service.  After lots of repair visits and changes to my account, it’s finally working right.  The surprise came when my account rep. told me he would be giving me a month of free service because of what happened.  It was a really good feeling to know that they cared about my satisfaction with their service.

The other surprise I got was when I called the company that made my Ninja blender.  I love my Ninja – it can turn shredded coconut into coconut cream in less than 5 minutes and makes the smoothest sauces.  The problem was a design flaw in the handle where food and water got stuck and couldn’t be cleaned.  I called to ask if there was a way to take apart the handle to clean it because I didn’t want to break it.  What a surprise when they said they would be sending me out a new pitcher and locking lid!  I really felt like a valued customer and felt they went above and beyond to respond to my needs as a customer.

After these experiences this week, I am more motivated than ever to provide the best customer service I possibly can.  As a small business owner, my customers are my livelihood.  I appreciate every order whether it’s $3 or $300.  I am so thankful for every comment, good or bad, that customers take the time to send me.  The good comments make me feel good and let me know what I’m doing right, but the negative comments are even more important as they help me improve my business and make it better.

Custom colors? You bet!


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Suncatcher Craft Eyes come in a wide range of stock colors and styles, but did you know that I can work with you to match the color(s) of your project?  I’ve worked with fashion designers, toy manufacturers, and Broadway puppeteers to create a custom look for their projects.

Designing a toy-making kit?  Why not make it really pop with custom-color eyes not found anywhere else?

Let us help you make the most of your creations.  Suncatcher Craft Eyes can be matched to swatches and photos.