Dear Crafty Friends,
If you missed it on the CraftTestDummies Facebook Page earlier this week, there was quite a hubbub. Martha Stewart, craft maven to many, spoke out in an interview by which she put bloggers down. With disdain, even. See the interview for yourself:
So, yes. That. “Who are these bloggers?” I am SO happy to answer that! We are self-motivated, disciplined, passionate individuals. We blog because we are compelled, to, not because we get a paycheck to do it.
(This might be a good time to remind her that most of us don’t receive a regular paycheck from our blogs. Some, like mine, have a few ads and sponsored posts so that it doesn’t cost my family grocery money to stay afloat. But I don’t make a dime for the 40 hours a week I pour into testing, writing, creating and editing videos, photographing crafts and editing posts. Not to mention the time managing the affiliate social channels, answering questions from readers, and promoting the posts.)
Bloggers, unlike Martha, have to do it all. For very little return. And manage our families, JOBS (because, yes, many bloggers cannot afford to blog full time and have to keep day jobs) and other commitments. We have no staff. Hear that? NO STAFF. So when I hear “they are not the experts” I kind of have to roll my eyes- the same way I do when folks talk about stay-at-home moms not having a job. Because while NOT A SINGLE BLOGGER I KNOW professes to be an expert, we do have expertise. Namely in:
- creating unique content on a regular basis
- learning the fundamentals of SEO
- higher-level photography and photo editing
- video production and editing
- blogging tech and templates, including staying on top of new plug-ins (my baileywick!)
- monitoring constantly-evolving and emerging social channels and learning how to optimize them
- developing and refining monetization strategies
- seeking/interfacing with brands and companies for mutually-beneficial campaigns
- networking with other bloggers to keep the karma wheel turning
- developing and growing our design (or cooking or crafting or whatever) skills so that we can speak to our audiences from a place of knowledge and authenticity
- cultivating and growing our audiences so that we DO have a platform on which to stand and be heard.
Whew! Quite a lot, right? And most of us…. for chump change. Less than I could make working part time at minimum wage. SO. I’m dusting this comment of hers off my shoulder- because even though SHE doesn’t seem to value us, we know that the folks in her organization do– as evidenced by a number of blogger initiatives that some brilliant person thought up (not her, of course) that include the 12 Months of Martha program, Martha’s Circle Bloggers, and even her address at BlogHer 12 and the Blogger’s Night Out that yours truly attended. (Not to mention the times when bloggers were specifically invited to her shows and were treated quite well. I did that. TWICE. )
So I’m here to show bloggers some love. Below is a link-up. Please add either YOUR blog or your favorite- just PLEASE scan the ones added so far to make sure there aren’t duplicates (I will delete duplicate blogs linked up.) Please but the NAME OF THE BLOG in the “name” section of the link-up tool and use the blogs’ logo or header as the thumbnail photo!
NO RETAIL WEBSITES PLEASE. Bloggers only!
When you are done, take a moment to comment on the blogs, THANKING THEM for all of their creativity, skill, hard-work…and yes, expertise.
I’d also love to read your comments, so leave me your thoughts.
With bloggy love, Jenny
[inlinkz_linkup id=330246]
- Spooky Spider Halloween Bookmark Craft - October 24, 2018
- Review and Demo of LDRS Hybrid Ink Pads - October 15, 2018
- Review and Demo of Nuvo Hybrid Inks - October 1, 2018
- Craft Studio Tour and Organization Ideas - September 20, 2018
- Wax Paper Resist Background Technique - March 20, 2018
- Comparison of Liquid Watercolor Markers/Pens - March 16, 2018
- SAI Japanese Traditional Watercolor Brush Markers- Review & Demo - February 23, 2018
- Rinea Metallic Foil Paper & Ghost Ink Review - February 21, 2018
- Jane Davenport debuts at Creativation 2018 & Watercolor Card - February 13, 2018
- Creativation 2018: New Product Showcase - January 20, 2018
Sarah says
Well said and thanks for the love.
Doreen says
Hi Jenny
We’re all disappointed by her self-proclaimed royal highness’ remarks. I’m waiting for maybe an apology from her? I love being a blogger. I love following bloggers.
Doreen
Amy* says
Wonderful post Jenny! I saw your post on FB and couldn’t believe it. Definitely an “Oh no she didn’t” moment. I was at BlogHer 12 and showed up an hour early so I could be front & center when she spoke I even brought a box of goodies to give to my table mates made with HER products (which of course I blogged about). It’s really disappointing when someone you have admired turns out to be a not so nice person. Thanks for standing up for us all and working so hard to keep us inspired and in the know! Who reads Vogue? I read blogs!
Amy*
Mary Lee says
Hey, you’re talking to the choir. Most of us know that you are the experts. People like filthy-rich Martha are making it on the backs of their underlings. She probably can’t do much without them and you can’t tell me she makes her own cards or even scrapbooks. The way I look at it, I’m gonna trust your opinion before I trust hers cuz she’s getting paid for it.
Cathie Filian says
Jenny! You rock and by-golly you are an EXPERT too. 🙂
Shawn Mosch says
Thanks for the blogger love Jenny!
Shawn Mosch ~ The Buckle Boutique Design Team Coordinator
Crafty Chics Blog
MyCutSearch.com a searchable database of Cricut images
robyn says
Well said, and what a wonderfully creative blog list!
thanks for standing up for all of us!
Dale Rose Stream says
My blog has been giving me fits for over a month, but thank you for standing up for so many people. Martha just lost more points with me. I love some of her products, but as I said earlier on our class fb page when someone mentioned this, and I had not heard of it yet… sometimes she comes off very cold and high-and-mighty as our parents used to say! ouch…. like me, perhaps she needs to think more before she speaks.
Laura / Pet Scribbles says
Bravo Jenny – well said, although I’m not an expert. 😉 I think what is awesome about craft and DIY and creative bloggers in general is that WE get it, and are so supportive of each other. We are truly a community. Martha’s comment demonstrated her own ignorance of this fact. Here’s hoping that she begins to learn about us, the way we’ve helped our own readers learn about her products.
Dale Rose Stream says
So far, the first two she mentioned are AFFILIATED WITH HER PRODUCT.
OMG the recipes aren’t ‘tested or very good’?????? Where did SHE get HER start??????? and just because SHE doesn’t care for the taste of something, that doesn’t mean that MILLIONS of others may not like it?????? argh…. I need to leave this video…
CRAFT & BLOG ON jenny!
Candice Schwark says
Terrific blog!! Clear and kind!
Thanks for speaking for us!
Lori Apgar says
I created my blog to show my own creations as well as give tutorials to my scrapbook students. I used to recommend Martha Stewart tools, re-thinking that now. I teach scrapbooking classes but spend what I earn on product. I don’t earn anything but satisfaction from my blog and I wouldn’t have it any other way!!
Thank you for giving us a chance to showcase our blogs here!!!
Dee in NH says
I have WAY and I mean WAY!!!! more respect for you and other bloggers than the these self proclaimed “experts”. They get paid to gush about all sorts of stuff they would otherwise know nothing about. If I want a good and honest opinion I rely on blogs and bloggers. Thanks you for speaking out about this and never stop doing your own thing! I have not ever had a blog but I have total respect for all the effort you guys put forth for us!
trish hanson says
I can not believe she had the nerve (or stupidity) to say that! Just as one example, I taught myself to sew by using tutorials posted by BLOGGERS! In my opinion her site’s sewing tutorials aren’t much help – I LOVE blogs! And subscribe to many. I’m very thankful so many take the time out of their WAY too busy days to teach us what they know. When I need to know how to do something, i go to the tutorials created by bloggers, NOT her site. Keep doing what you’re doing ladies! WE appreciate you all!
Claudia says
I read a bio about Martha a few years ago. The first cookbook that she published contained significant errors — either she didn’t take the time to test her recipes or she couldn’t afford staff to do so. I think she’s more into branding than crafting.
Kris says
Right on, Jenny!!! I have learned so much from bloggers like you and many of the other bloggers you posted here today. I have the utmost respect for you folks. I cannot imagine the time and effort it takes to post 1 week of posts, much less virtually every day of the year. Martha has way too much money and has forgotten her humble roots. Spoiled brats make insensitive, inane remarks and declarations because they are so full of self entitlement. Glad you spoke your piece!!! You are a joy to watch, read and learn from. Thank you!!!!
carolyn ~ homework says
Thank you so much for posting this Jenny. I’m going to follow your lead and dust that comment away too. I’ve done a lot of Martha Campaigns and I’m up for next years 12 Months of Martha and I was feeling very conflicted. But it’s true – her people at least value us. And of course, we as a blogger community value each other. Thank you again.
Carolyn
MCatherine says
Ahh, looks as if Martha has stepped in another ‘cow pie’.
Jani says
Very well put, Jenny. When she started her business in her basement, she was a history major with experience in modeling. Martha was not an expert then. What skills she has developed over the years are completely overshadowed by her attitude towards other people. However she deems us mere bloggers, at least we are friendly and courteous.
Jennifer Rizzo says
Great you for a well thought out post. Martha started out selling PIES. I think being dismissive is a huge downfall of hers.She certainly has no problem letting bloggers make her money by hawking her products and running her ad networks as her entire team thinks up and executes 95% of what she does.Many of us “bloggers” provide content for real publications.I would think that would make many of us “experts”.Many of us have also been teaching classes in our “expertise” for years.I think Martha should think about those people behind the blogs. It’s never hurts any one to be kind.
Jenn/Rook No. 17 says
Beautifully stated, and handled with absolute class!
<3
Jenn
kim says
I haven’t really liked her personally from what I have seen of her but I love what her company represents. The idea that crafting is a very productive and fun way to spend time is wonderful. It seems like she is so out of touch with what is going on in the real (ahem, virtual) craft world that she is clueless as to what an incredibly artistic and professional resource today’s craft bloggers can be. I have noticed that her company often later comes out with products that have shown up on blogs a year or two previous. Wonder how that happens…
Judy Williamson says
I am not a blogger but follow some amazing, creative, genuine, funny (I could go on and on) bloggers. I have learned so very much that has introduced me to side of myself that I never knew existed- a creative, artistic side. And it has been life-changing for me- maybe sounds extreme but it really is the truth. I was going through a major, major life crisis when I discovered bloggers who do art journaling and through their blogs taught me how to express my feelings in a healthy, safe manner. Truthfully, I have never liked Martha but now I am sorry, but I can’t stand her. I am so very glad you published this- I have tremendous respect for you for doing it,. Blog on sister, blog on!!!
Linda McClain says
So well said. It’s so sad because so many of us take inspiration from her. It’s like being ridiculed by your own Mom or mentor. I don’t wish her any harm and I probably won’t boycott her things like others have suggested. I just hope she figures it all out and soon. She bit the hand that feeds her.
Ann says
Not to upset all bloggers, but Martha has a point. As with anything ” let the buyer beware” it’s up to the reader to validate a blogger based on our trying their recommendations. I have gone to some sites and the recipes are rehash of what’s written on a box or can. We, as readers, need to sort out the best.
Chrystel says
I think Martha is missing the point about blogging. For a lot of us it is an attempt to connect with like minds, not to promote. I have seen her products mentioned favorably on various craft blogs (actually mentioned her decoupage glue and sealer on one of my posts); that is free advertising for her. Maybe she is concerned that blogs may be a threat to her magazine. Because I read a number of blogs I have decreased my subscriptions tremendously.
Susie says
This reminds me of when she went on Rachel Ray and then dissed her food. As Rachel said later, she’s not a chef, she just likes to give people simple recipes and ideas. As if Martha is a chef, please….
I love reading blogs about subjects that interest me. It give me ideas and as in your case, can help me choose products I may want to spend my money on. I can honestly say I have NEVER bought a Martha Stewart product. All of her craft items are based on other companies products, just packaged differently and cost alot more.
I will be looking at some of the blogs shown above. I already see some I follow.
I thank you for your blog and the time and effort you put into it. I find it very helpful in choosing products. Thank you.
Lynn G. says
I do not have a blog , but I follow many kinds of blogs – cooking , crafting, decorating etc. and I have learned much from those ” amateurs ” … So, keep up the good work you inexperienced people – blogland appreciates you even if the diva does not !!
Fancylooks says
I had to listen to the video to believe it!!! It is awful!!
How can she be so full of herself? How can she talk like that about people who use and recommend her products? She is completely out of reality, so disrespectful…
This reminds me of what happens with politicians, they hate us and consider us like bugs they could step on with no regrets, but they look with a smile at us and say they care about us … Martha “cares” about us… but now she has pulled off her Halloween mask. I never recommended her products mainly because I cannot buy them in Spain, but I would not recommend them now even if I could buy them, let her feel our power! One bug maybe be stepped on, but a lot of bugs are a big menace!
Theresa R says
Just another tasteless remark from the woman who considers herself the “arbiter of good taste.” I would like to see what she could do on her own if her minions all left.
I am not a blogger–I am just a grateful reader of blogs. I love this one as well as many of the others listed–and I love having this list as I will have more to check out! I am involved in a yearly project which involves packing shoeboxes to send to poor children all over the world through Samaritans Purse, and I rely on so many blogs for great ideas and instructions for cute and inexpensive toys, games, clothing, etc. that I can make to put in those shoeboxes. Sorry, Martha, but I have found very few ideas I can use on your websites!
To all of you–you are so appreciated and keep up the good work–actually, I should say “excellent” work!
sandra ross says
I think Martha Stewart is an extremely talented woman. I also think that the major portion of her wealth has been the direct result of her very talented staff, many of whom I would guess blog. I think she needs to apologize profusely for anything she has said that puts down good honest people who love to share their talents and work so very hard at doing it. I am long retired and do not blog, but I sure do enjoy the results of those who do. Perhaps she believes she is “so big” she no longer needs to worry about her public image. Well, if she isn’t careful, her bank account may show her differently.
sandra ross says
Forgot to say how much I appreciate you, Jenny, and all the time and effort you put into testing products. You are great – most of the bloggers I know of out there are great. Martha Stewart is talking through her conceited inability to truly see and care for people for who they are. It’s her loss. She may have money but she has no idea of the joy in being a real person and having real relationships. Who knows, maybe the responses to this will be enough to at least make her stop and think.
Janet Trapp says
I appreciate all those bloggers and we can decide who we want to listen too! Honestly first time I have ever listened to her… Much prefer listening to you Jenny! You do us a great service and even though we may not say it enough THANK YOU SO MUCH! ~God bless~
Denise says
Okay when she needed to watch how broad she put the gripe at bloggers. With out bloggers especially in the crafting industry, the bloggers represent all of us as consumers! And mind that some bloggers are giving her free endorsement/advertising when they are using Martha products and showcasing new scrapbooking or crafting products. I love that bloggers share their interest without having to subscribe with fees. Its a love the craft not the love for MONEY, uh hem! I personally find Martha products to be way over priced. Have ever seen the interviews with Martha’s daughter and her experience with such a crafty mom? I have so much appreciation for those that take the time to blog, share their talents, explore products for us before we buy, and most of all give us inspiration. I am crafty myself, have a blog (just no time anymore) have a degree in graphic design.. But don’t have a problem with those I follow who are not technically experts or gees….. Too bad she can not remember her time
Christy says
Bloggers aren’t experts. I don’t think any of them say they are! Although Martha has a FEW good products, I hate buying anything with her name on it. She never gives credit to the THOUSANDS of designers, crafters, and assistants who maker her look good. Wouldn’t you love to see her on a cooking show, or a design show to see what she can do without her hoards of minions! And she supports Macy’s and Amazon, she left out Michael’s! who all carry and support her lines. Bloggers talk about what they love, what they are passionate about. Yes, it is up to the consumer to evaluate what they read and what they see.
Jenny, I can’t afford to go out and buy every new product and every new tool. I love your reviews. They are fair and extensive. Thank you for all you do.
Kim says
I don’t want to sound rude, but fear this comment might… I am not a fan of Martha. I know this is just my perception, but I feel like she looks down on us (those who have made her so popular and successful). I have several friends who have dealt with her staff as well as personally met Martha and they did not get warm fuzzies from their experiences. I have learned more from bloggers than I have ever learned from Martha. The blogging community is a very giving and generous community of people and I will stand up for them and stand behind them 100%. So, thank you as well as other bloggers for taking time to share your knowledge and also befriend some of us readers. I “heart” bloggers!
Caryn S. (Scrapnsing) says
Sorry, not at all shocked by this! Never cared for her, won’t buy her products, anything I own of hers is a gift. Three things strike me about this post:
1) Anything she does is purely for self-promotion and to get ideas for her own benefit. So the idea that she hosts a bloggers’ get together isn’t a surprise. I’m guessing those rumors about her being a people-user have some merit, after watching and reading this.
2) I can’t think of a single idea she’s sold or shared that was hers. She borrows things from other people continuously. I can’t say I haven’t seen other peoples’ ideas shared on blogs; the difference there is, bloggers give credit to the person from whom it came, and they don’t profit!
3) There’s a difference between sharing an untested recipe on a blog that can be accessed for free on the internet, and intentionally selling a book of recipes to millions of people which you KNOW you have altered so that you can keep the secret to the recipe “secret”! Oh yes she does! And I couldn’t figure out why mine never came out like hers until I read this!
I have a little respect for Martha Stewart as a business woman, but not much for her as a person. This just lowered that bar a little more.
Claret says
I think Martha might want to remember all the people who purchase the products that her staff works so hard to be marketable. Martha, crafters might leave those pretties on the shelf because I have a couple of punches that no longer work and my Fiskars are still working fine!
Amy Joy says
Wow, I wonder if Martha knows how much influence bloggers have these days! She took a long road to her empire and started so long ago that blogs weren’t even a twinkle in anyone’s eye back then, but she uses the internet plenty to promote her products. Just does not make sense that she’d make a comment like that. Maybe she is threatened by bloggers. Also doesn’t she have several (dozens? hundreds?) of designers working for her line? Don’t tell me none of those people have blogs…