The "A.B." in ABCreations stands for Anmarie Bowden, that's me! My favorite ice cream is Mississippi Mud from Baskin Robbins, altho I'm partial to Oreos crumbled on top of Vanilla Bean ice cream too! I was born on Super Bowl Sunday. I have been digiscraping since 2000. I live in beautiful sunny California. I am married to my soul mate and we have two gorgeous children. My favorite saying is, “If you think my hands are full, you should see my heart!”
* You will need a graphics program such as Photoshop (PS) or Photoshop Elements (PSE) or Paint Shop Pro (PSP) or something similar. You will also need some quality lessons/tutorials on how to use that software properly.
* You will need some sort of quality control checking tools. If you put out good quality items, you will get return customers. I have a free PS QC tool HERE.
* A scanner is a great tool to have. You can scan all kinds of textures and other non-copyrighted items such as cardboard, stucco, dirt, grass and more to make textures and patterns. Be sure to get a good quality scanner that scans at 300dpi and be very careful not to scan items that are copyrighted. (most everything before 1972 is copyright free or 75 years plus the life of the artist)
* A camera is another great tool to have. It works great in a pinch if you don't have your scanner nearby. It's also a great tool for documenting anything you find inspirational so you can look back on it later while making your products.
* A pen tablet is a great tool for artists who are really into the hand-drawn look, enjoy doodling, or anyone who isn't crazy about using their mouse.
* You will need a form of online storage or file sharing. It's one of the best ways to give out freebies (as a marketing tool). It's also a great way to get files to a customer who might be having troubles with a download for any reason. Some online storage companies are: OpenDrive, SugarSync, YouSendIt, Box.net, 2Shared, DropBox, etc.
* Social Media is a must. Get a blog, facebook, twitter, pinterest, LinkedIn and any other account you can find. This is a great way to interact with customers, let them know what's new, get them to sign up for your newsletter, give them freebies, tell them about upcoming contests, find out what they want, and much more!
* A PayPal account is also a must, this is how you get paid.
Do you have anything to add to my list? Leave me a note in the comments below, you know I love hearing from you!
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