Using Square to accept credit cards.

Before I started selling at the Farmer's market in Glen Ellen a few weeks ago, I checked into the latest ways to accept credit cards.  I was looking for something that didn't have a big monthly fee but was secure.  I had previously use ProPay but just wrote down the credit card information then entered it into my computer later when I got home.

But now I've found Square.  Its a little square that you attach to the audio outlet in your mobile phone (I use an iphone). You then swipe the card and fill in the price info on your phone (plus tax if necessary).  The person signs on the phone and then you have the choice of sending them a receipt by email or text.

It works brilliantly!  It is free and you don't pay any monthly charge.  They just add a small percentage on top of the usual credit card percentage.  This means that when I don't use it for a few months, I won't be charged anything.  After use, the funds are sent to your account that same evening.  It accepts Visa, Mastercard and Amex.

If you want to start accepting credit cards (or want a better set up than you already have), you really should check it out.  You can also use it to accept cash, so that it keeps all your transactions in one place. You just by pass the credit card swipe part and enter the cash details and send a receipt or not.  When you accept cash, Square makes no charges.  They then produce good spreadsheets of all transactions accessible either on the phone or on your computer.

And the bit that the customers like the best is that I bought a little Pogo stylus to sign on the phone (or else you can use a finger).  It's lime green - of course - my favorite color!!!

The Square is quick and easy to sign up for; I received the Square in a couple of days; and it was easy to get started.

And it works wherever you can get a phone signal.   Take a look at Square's website for more info. Let me know if you give it a go. 

Cufflinks - for men AND women

Here are some new cuff links. They utilize the traditional hinge style post that swivels once it's through the cuff and holds it in place.


And maybe not many men wear cuff links nowadays in the US - but the numbers seem to be increasing in the UK. I've made a few pairs before - and they've all sold in England. It seems that it is becoming more popular with younger guys there, who are wearing them on everyday shirts rather than just formal shirts....

But another angle I'd love to get moving is cuff links for women. I made some women's cuff links for a commission - and just thought it was a great idea. You can buy ladies blouses with cuffs for cuff links now - or you could even adapt a blouse/shirt you already have.


This pair is quite subdued in design. As it was my first pair with the hinge back, I kept it simple - sort of just about what my husband could cope with wearing. He does like plain! Nothing flashy for him! But now I like how these have turned out - so the field is open....so long as I can find people who want to wear cuff links!!!


So get out there! Get the man in your life to wear French cuff shirts - or you wear them instead and adorn yourselves with cuff links! Happy to do commissions. Let's start a cuff link movement!