Friday, January 06, 2006

A Fun Little Giveaway . . .

Okay, so I need some feedback - and who better to give it to me than you guys! I am really trying to plan/organize/concept my on-line classes. This is really a very new thing and I want to know what you think. Do you need/want to see video (this scares me- did you see me on DIY)!? Is audio cool for you? I want to be "me" which means that the projects will be more technique oriented and probably intermediate to advanced (so that part is pretty much decided) Did you have a great experience with this? A not so great one? Anything???? I'd love to hear what you have to say!

And to sweeten the deal . . .I have tons of various styles of vintage letters lying around (metal sign letters, tiny metal letters, large plastic letters, letter tiles,etc. - all flat and ready for your scrapbook). A customized monogram set awaits 3 lucky winners! On Sunday I will draw three numbers from a hat (don't worry, I'm really honest- somebody give me a testimony!) and I will pull the names of the posts that coordinate with those numbers. Sound good? I will post the winners here.

Can't wait to hear what you have to say!

Also - lots of people asked about the Welcome Sign (I promise to be better about listing info. like that). It is from Wendy Addison (for Seasons of Canyon Falls) and I found mine on Ebay. I think they come in Gold or Silver.

Happy Friday! (It's "Pizza and Family Movie Night" at my house)
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94 comments:

Anonymous said...

I say video or if you do audio you will need lots of step by step photos. Since you said most of it would be technique I'm afraid just describing it would be misinterpreted.

Anonymous said...

video or lots of GOOD step by step photos accompanied by thorough directions! looking forward to seeing how everything pans out for you!!

Jackie Rice said...

I think audio with step by step photos is a great idea. I realize how hard being in front of the camera can be and I think that step by step photos are almost easier than watching a how to video. Lets you slow it down to your own pace, you know? Really excited to see what 2006 brings the world of scrapbooking. There is already so much happening I can't imagine what will happen next.

Anonymous said...

I'm agreeing with Jackie, I would love the option of printing out the step-by-step photos and then listening to the audio. And I'm so glad to hear that your classes would be more intermediate/advanced and technique based!

Anonymous said...

My vote would be for video - it's so much easier to learn by watching I think. Plus if the techniques will be intermediate to advanced, then it would make it easier for those of us who want to be advanced, but aren't quite there yet!! Looking forward to it!!

Anonymous said...

I would agree with the already mentioned comments, that video isn't a must, as long as the pics are good. Pictures of just the outcome isn't enough...pictures of someone doing something (step-by-step) would be preferable. I am excited to see more from J.B. studio. Love the pics of the buttons...I just want to run my hand through them!

Anonymous said...

Audio with photos would work well, but video would be such a bonus. Video would sure help the visual learners. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us!

Celebrate Today said...

I would be happy with audio and things to print. I love having something in hand to look at with detailed directions, photos, etc. Then, I can keep that for reference. Looking forward to the classes! Family movie and pizza night here, too!

Unknown said...

Oh, Miss Jenni, I'm so excited for you and your new project. Would you be teaching these classes on line? You mean I wouldn't have to be dressed for this? Clothing can really bind my creative flow, you know...anyway, I don't have DIY but if you were on HGTV, I'd see ya for sure. Audio with step-by-step instructions would be great. We scrappers are very visual and anyway to show exactness will be an asset. Thanks for our opinions, that's so refreshing. Many Thanks, Karen St.Clair-mommascrapbooks

Anonymous said...

I like audio + step by step photos (ie a project sheet with directions and pictures). I think the audio adds some fun over just a project sheet. It's difficult to get video that would high enough quality to show what you're actually doing.

Anonymous said...

I think just as everyone else has said, really thorough, step-by-step instructions with photos is fine. Audio is not required.

Can't wait to see what you have in store!

Anonymous said...

Audio with step by step photos. Can't wait to see what you come up with!

Anonymous said...

Looking forward to your classes. It would be great to see detailed step-by-step instructions along with audio. Video would be a plus, but not absolutely necessary.

Wendy, Fragrant Blade said...

I am soooo excited about your classes!!! I took your class at CKU-M Anaheim and have been a huge fan forever.

If I had my wishlist - I'd very much like video - it is much easier for me to see what you're doing if I can actually SEE it. Esp. if the techniques are intermediate to advanced.

THANKS!!! and I can't WAIT!!

Anonymous said...

I cannot wait for your classes! I think if it's advanced techniques (which thrills me!!) than it will be easier for people to follow if you on a video feed - we can watch you do it, etc. - visual is just so much easier sometimes. And vintage letters - LOVE letters!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Oh - just read the others posts - yeah, step-by-step photos would be a good option too! That way you can take it at your own pace and look at the photos - great idea too!!

Anonymous said...

Video or really good photos would be great - I think that audio alone could be pretty difficult, especially if you're teaching an advanced technique. So excited to see the new kits!!

Anonymous said...

Hi Jenni!

Audio is a must and maybe printable transcripts for those who cannot get the audio. I'm not one to look at video, but good still pictures of techniques and of course good directions are a must too!

Finally someone willing to step it up with intermediate to advanced techniques. I need a good challenge!!!

Enjoy your family night...it is tonight for us too...going out for a little fun.

tiffani smith said...

step by step pictures with detailed audio and written instructions would be great. if video makes you uncomfortable i wouldnt do it. and have fun with your family night.

Anonymous said...

I agree with the majority of posters...Audio is key and really good pics with step by step instructions would be great.

Video is not a "must have" for me.

Can't wait to see what you come up with!

emilyruth said...

video is so nice because not only do you get to see exactly what to do but you get to see & hear one your favorite scrapbookers:)...i hate to hear or see myself on video too, but it really is great for other people:)...so excited to see what you have in store for us...

Sharon said...

Video would be a catchy thing to put your project ahead of others. More marketable since no one else is offering that feature. (as far as I've seen anyway)

Not a deal breaker for me, but I think it would appeal to a larger audience with a video.

Amy said...

Hi Jenni...my thoughts are this: If the pictures are good then that works for me but if it is a more challenging technique and hard to show with pictures then I think video is the way to go!

Anonymous said...

Hi Jenni!
I don't think that the video is really necessary, especially if you aren't comfortable with it (although I thought you were awesome on DIY). Having step by step photos and audio would be great to me and I think that would definitely get your ideas across and help us. I am just SO excited about what you have in store for us! Can't wait to see it all! :)

Deanna- yep Dee-na said...

have you seen what they are doing at BPS- donna and everyone have the audio thing going and then good pics, directions, lists... if you don't feel comfortable doing video I say don't. : ) Really whatever happens I'm sure it will be great Jenni! TFS your info about the welcome sign.

Anonymous said...

A video is especially helpful for int. or advanced techniques. If you have detailed instruction sheets with pics that would be good as well - lovin' peeks into your studio!

Crystal said...

I would have to agree with doing audio with LOTS of good step-by-step photos so students could "see" better what the technique is all about. I know that for me, it helps to see what I'm supposed to be doing in addition to reading and/or hearing it.

My concern for video would be for any students using dial-up internet and how long it might take for a video presentation to download. But then again, that's just my own two cents. Looking forward to see what you come up with!

Jana said...

Here is my 2 cents......if you have video capability, then I think that would be optimum. You wouldn't have to explain as much and we could all see what you're doing. However, I have taken online classes that were audio only along w/printed instuctions and I got along w/those just fine too even though the whole time I was listening to the audio I kept thinking how neat it would be to actually see the instructor talking to us from her studio (hint hint!!). ;-) I know your classes will be a huge success no matter which route you take and you can bet I'll be there!!

Anonymous said...

I am visual learner so I would love to see a video. Saying that I understand the fear of being on camera. I am looking forward to "seeing" your classes.(hee hee)

Anonymous said...

I'd love video--easier for me to follow, but step by step photos would be fine, too. I love your stuff--looking forward to seeing the kits/classes you'll offer!

Anonymous said...

I prefer an audio file that I can download for my mp3 player and pdf with pics to print out and scrapbook by. Video streaming is not my 1st choice since I do not scrap in front of my pc...I would watch it go to my scrap table then have to play the video again if I wasn't sure...

Anonymous said...

In my opinion video is not necessary but would be nice. Audio with lots of detailed pictures would work. I love that the classes will be technique oriented! Good luck.

Hollye said...

Hey Jenni! I can't wait for the first kit to come out! I think that video as an option would be awesome. Some people really need to "see" the process to completely understand. I think making it an option would be good since there are some people who use dial-up and have trouble with downloading the video.

Cheryl said...

I agree with Michele and say that photos with thorough step by step instructions. I'm excited to be able to take this class and explore more of whats in store for 2006.

Anonymous said...

I think you should use video. I personally am more of a visual learner. If you have awesome step-by-step print out directions, I think I could work with that too. That is awesome that you are leaning more towards teaching new techniques!!! So exciting!!

Anonymous said...

I agree with many who have already posted - a video display would be great - I too am a visual learner and am inspired by visual things (ads, billboards, etc). On a side note - I love your Welcome sign too-in fact I found one at an after Christmas sale at a store that sells the Season of CF line and bought it faster than I could get it off the shelf! I can't wait to hang it up. Thanks Jenni - looking forward to 'meeting' you through your class.

Susan said...

I think video would be nice but if your not comfortable with that its not a biggie. Audio with step by step pictures would be great as the other posters have said. Also a way to print out the instructions for later refrence. I love the idea of the projects being technique oriented and advanced is great!

Loved the hints and can't wait to see what you come up with. Wishing you great success.

Anonymous said...

I vote video...and then not only can we see and listen to you, but we can check out your awesome studio!

Anonymous said...

Step by step photos, with a good, clear audio would work for me. Having someone doing the project along side you while you are reading the instructions might help with the pacing. A transcript of the audio would be wonderful too.

Hope you enjoyed your Pizza night! We had "breakfast for supper" night tonight! :)

Anonymous said...

pretty much the same goes for me...audio and pictures are good...but video would be fun too. can't wait!

Anonymous said...

good step by step pictures are the key. when we try to recreate it's so important to have those pictures as we think what did she do? should be fun!
*mary

Joanna Bolick said...

I have to say, because I'm a visual learner, that I would prefer something that I can see. So lots and lots of close-ups or video...

Unknown said...

video, video, video!!! I love the idea. It's so different from everything else. Love the idea!

Anonymous said...

I think the video would be terrific! I know I am a visual person and sometimes need to see it to make it work! What ever you decide will be great.

Lindsey said...

I think video is always good as long as there are written instructions to follow along with it. It alows those of us who learn better by watching.."get it" better. Just my opinion! Good luck

Anonymous said...

I think that audio would be fine (without video), as long as you also post written instructions with maybe a few photos. I've been lucky enough to take a few classes from you in the past and your written instructions are always very thorough and easy to follow. I'm so excited to see the ideas you'll be sharing!

Anonymous said...

I just finished Cathy Z's online class and thought it was really well designed. Lots of detailed pictures would be great. I like being able to print out instructions and inspiration and keep it in my binder. I'm looking forward to your classes.

Anonymous said...

I too like the idea of being able to print out step by step instructions and photos to refer to at a later date.
Audio would be fun...just a little "not from Jenni" to add to it.

christina said...

i believe that video would be the best way. having taken other classes this would really help. even if it is only snips showing the techniques with voice over. can't wait for the first class:)

Anonymous said...

I think you can do step by step photos to have the same affect as video. An audio section would be great too!

lisa has great step by step photos at her site if you have not seen them

http://www.lisavollrath.com/articles/52/archives/00000002.html

pat S - quilter.pat@verizon.net

Anonymous said...

I would prefer really thorough, step-by-step instructions with progressive photos. I would love to be able to print it out to refer back to. Lots of rewinding is required with audio and vids, so I prefer it written out with photos.

Can't wait to see what you have in store with the online classes. :-)

Crystal @ A Well-Feathered Nest said...

I am such a visual person. I think audio and good pictures would be good, but I do think video would be better. It's easier to actually see what you are doing--that's a good thing for me.

Anonymous said...

I also agree with audio and still pictures to guide you along. The pictures are a necessity due to the level of the class.

Anonymous said...

Hi Jenni -

In agreement with the others that audio with lots of detailed photos would probably appeal to most. Video would be cool, but could be a turnoff for those with slower internet access.

Anonymous said...

detailed, step by step photos with audio would be lovely...OR video with up-close shots of what you're doing. can't wait to see what's in store! your blog and website are awesome, jenni!

side note: your welcome sign IS wonderful...there's a great website that sells Wendy Addison stuff www.bayberrycove.com

Anonymous said...

I am visual and I think that most are, but it does not have to be say of you it can be making the project or showing a technique that would take the pressure off of you:) just show your hands doing the work!

Anonymous said...

Jenni!

First of all I CAN NOT wait to see your kit, I love your style and all that you do! I think I would be more interested in step by step photos versus, video or audio...hope that helps! Thanks so much! Courtney

Anonymous said...

i think video would be fantastic, but i can relate to being intimidated by it. i think audio would be fine as well along with some photos and step-by-step instructions.
not sure if i have helped at all here--sorry...
i know whatever you do, it will be fabulous and i will learn so much.

Anonymous said...

I think that really great step by step photos and well written instructions work best for me. I have dial-up so this is really the only way for me.

Anonymous said...

I think great step by step photos either in a handout form or that can be printed individually for later reference would be great! The video/audio would be a great bonus in addition to printable step by step visuals! Even though the classes would be for advanced the step by step would help beginners follow along to become advanced. Good luck with your decision and you know we are happy to give feedback anytime!

Anonymous said...

HOw about an opening video explaining the project and then audio with a slide show of the project in steps. Anything you do will be Incredible!!!

Carrie K said...

I vote for step by step photos with very descriptive audio!

Loving your blog by the way...gets me excited to create stuff!

Anonymous said...

My vote...audio with step by step photos that way we can go at our own pace and refer to them if we need to. And I LOVE your studio.

Anonymous said...

Video isn't a must--unless it is a really new or difficult technique. Audio is a must! I think you being you--advanced techniques is exactly what we need.

Looking forward to seeing what you do next!

Nicole said...

Video would be awesome, or at least super detailed instruction photos. Audio alone is nice, but can lead to many different results. What about sketch drawing steps? Ohhhh, i am so excited about your kits and online classes! yeah!!

Anonymous said...

would love video, but i think that audio along with step-by-step instructions would be just fine.

Loving your blog.

aday said...

I am for video as well. I learn hands on and watching and feel that is the only way to do. We did a couple of online classes and the ladies really liked it!

Anonymous said...

With technique oriented things that are intermediate or advanced I think that video would be ideal but audio with lots of good pics could work. Sometimes there's just no substitute for being able to watch someone demonstrate a technique.
Can't wait to see the kit offering and your studio ::heavy sigh:: looks fab.

Anonymous said...

I am really liking the tech. of using PDF adobe sheets to describe the steps and show a pix of the project. This way you are able to print it off and take it with you, or keep for future reference.
I think audio would be fine.......a little message on things you may think would be questions we might ask about the project.

thanks so much for asking! I cannot wait to see what you come up with!

Vicki said...

Step by step photos are great however may be more time consuming then a quick video!! I think whatever you choose as long as you are descriptive we will understand what you are trying to get across!

Anonymous said...

I think audio with step by step photos would be great. I have to agree with the others that it would be great to be able to print out the step by step photos to refer to as reference. Looking forward to seeing whatcha got for us crazy scrapbookers.

Anonymous said...

I think audio is fine but video would be fabulous. Photos work great as long as they are detailed and step by step and I agree with others it is handy to be able to print out and have a reference. I am the type of person that can't read directions and follow along I need visual. I had directions to make a paper box from another website and I could not figure it out to save my life but then the designer posted step by step photos and the light came on and it was all crystal clear.
I can't wait to see your kits! I love crafting projects!!!!

Anonymous said...

Video. That way you can accomodate the visual and auditory learners. Personally, if I looked like you, I'd run 24-hour video feed of myself ;-) But if you are self-conscious, know that we're going to be staring at your hands and your materials. Written instructions with photographs would be an excellent addition. Also, check with your tech person, but it seems like it would be fairly easy to pull photos from the video for a pdf printable.

Anonymous said...

I think it depends on how complicated the projects get. I definitely think that audio with photos would be fine if you're not comfortable with video. But I do think that the photos are important so that we can see what you are talking about. Hope that helps!

Anonymous said...

Hi, I am really excited about taking a class from you. I have taught my children at home for the last ten years. As they got older we began using classes from an online school. We loved them! So with that experience in mind, I would love having both video and audio. It works better for the student and teacher. Digital whiteboards are great too! I didn't see you teaching on DIY, but I am sure you were great! Can't wait to sign up for class!

Anonymous said...

Hi Jenni,
I took a class of yours in Crofton Maryland about 2 years ago at the Queen's Ink...really enjoyed meeting you and looking forward to your new venture..
My feeling is that while a video is not necessary, simple directions can be interpreted differently and some people will just need to "see" what you're talking about. If you can have pictures that correspond with what you should have at a certain point or what yours should be like, I think that would help. Instructions alone are tricky in that no matter that you think they're self explanatory, someone else may not think so. I think having a picture to go with it would eliminate greatly the possibility of people emailing you that they didn't understand what you were doing or talking about. Happy New Year, mary bartolotta

Anonymous said...

I think audio would be great but I am a visual learner and would need some step by step pictures. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

tonya said...

I'm good either way. But if you're more YOU without being in front of a camera (and who wouldn't be?) then audio and PDF would be the way to go! I agree it's nice to be able to linger on a page/pic as long as desired rather than trying to get it all as it is playing (video). Relax, it's gonna be great whatever you go with!
tonya

Katy said...

I think audio with good step by step is fine, but maybe an add-on, for those that want to spend more, to get the video? Just a thought... I'm excited no matter what!

Anonymous said...

Step by step photos and instructions would work for me. A good, clear audio would be a plus. I do not think video is needed unless the project is so complex you have to see it to do it. Cannot wait to see what you come up with. Have a great day!

Anonymous said...

I say audio is fine, but you will need to post photos of the project step by step also. I just don't think you see the video very well in detail online. If it was a DVD that is totally different then a video is great. But, online, I say it needs to be audio with detailed still photo shots !

Michelle

Anonymous said...

I think audio files are great just to add a little "real person" to the "cold digital world". Some of us will never meet personally the great Jenni Bowlin, so a little voice snip-it now and then lets the rest of us feel like we've met you. However, video really only becomes useful if you are trying to explain a tricky concept...for most dial-up customers (of which there are still MANY) video would be almost impossible to download.

Yvette said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Yvette said...

Yikes, I think it erased my prior post...

I would think video is more expensive to produce, so if it makes the class quite a bit more money, I would opt for written instruction with photos. Also, I have seen teh video on CraftTV and sometimes it was dark and hard to see what they were doing.

I personally do not think that audio would add a lot (thought it would be fun to hear your voice). I can more easily follow good written instructions with detailed photos. The Technique Junkies website has a good demonstration of this. For online, I think I still prefer this over video.

Just my thoughts...

Anonymous said...

Audio & a PDF with detailed pics would be great because you can save the file for future reference. Can't wait to see you at the Oasis, Jenni!

Anonymous said...

i think video would be really helpful. especially for those visual learners. i am very excited about the new jb studio. your work is incredible and so meaningful.

Anonymous said...

Audio is cool. But if the class are going to be technique oriented, video sounds great. It also helps someone like me who is not a native speaker of English :)
I am looking forward to your online class in either way, though!!

Anonymous said...

i think video also, thanks for the info on the welcome sign, i'm sure the demand is now high, it is so cute and i collect alot of her stuff for the different holidays, am i too late for the drawing, thanks so much for you inspiration and ideas can't wait to get you kit!

Anonymous said...

OK< went back and was reading all the posts...and I see I should have used spell check LOL
Mine SHOULD have said "note from Jenni" instead of the "not from Jenni" ooops!

Anonymous said...

I would have to go with audio with step by step photos and a great set of directions.Can't wait to see you up and running...it feels like Christmas to me :)

Anonymous said...

I think audio with step by step photos to accompany the directions. Can't wait!

Anonymous said...

Personally I would be fine with notes and a few pictures, I think it comes down to what would be better in the long run, and what would appeal to a large group of scrapers. I would say most scrapers are visual so a video would be nice, maybe include some notes to refer back to. Good luck

Anonymous said...

Neither one is necessary so long as you have good directions. Maybe photos if you don't want to do video?

Anonymous said...

video would be great, but can sometimes be frustrating for those w/ slower types of internet connections. i find that step by step color photos and directions are most helpful.